Almost a year ago at the opening of our new hospital, I noted that a community hospital exists to serve the community and is successful when the community supports their local hospital. Evidence of that community support was demonstrated most recently during the winter snow storm and blizzard. When all other health care options on the Shore were unavailable, the hospital remained open due to the support of local agencies and good Samaritans.
While we are prepared for the normal once-a-year snowstorm, the blizzard conditions we experienced are a rare occurrence on the Eastern Shore. The Accomack County Sheriff’s department, the National Guard and even private citizens provided tremendous support in helping us transport team members to work so that essential services could be provided. Without their support many team members would not have been able to get to the hospital.
I must also note and thank the dozens of committed hospital team members and physicians who came to work before the storm hit. They were ready and prepared to stay the course. Many worked an extra shift, rested and then worked another unscheduled shift to ensure that we continued to provide the safe and excellent care that our patients and their families deserve.
And finally, I want to thank our local EMS agencies and fire companies who continued to provide service to our fellow citizens throughout the storm. They really are our first responders and their vital service to our community cannot be overlooked.
We are indeed fortunate to be served by so many community-minded individuals.
Thank you
John Peterman
Vice President, Administrator
Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital
Charles Taylor says
Your community does not include lower Northampton County; it is easier to access Sentara facilities in Norfolk and VA Beach, and the care is comprehensive within that community. A patient does not risk getting shipped 100 miles to Newport News for specialized services.
Edward Brooks says
This is for John Peterman. Why are these doctors send you to a lot mored doctors and your problem keeps getting worse and then your owe out a lot of money and you are still sick even worse– this is not right. Do the doctors just care about their pay and not the people?