Each year the Magic Valley Regional Medical Center Board of Directors allocates a fund specifically for community health improvement initiatives in the region. In fiscal year 2006 $185,000 was designated for this purpose. The first round of funding distribution was announced at the October 10 Board meeting. A total of $93,023 was allocated for the following projects:
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The 900 Women Campaign – a project to improve mammography rates through Women’s Health & Imaging Services. This campaign (beginning in May 2006) will provide mammograms for underserved or underinsured women ages 40 – 49 years.
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Children At Risk Evaluation Services (CARES) – a service to reduce trauma to children during a child abuse investigation by providing a collaborative, child-focused approach.
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Choose to Move – a program designed to combat childhood obesity and physical inactivity, offered through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Magic Valley.
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College of Southern Idaho “Sim Ann” – training technology for Nursing program Learning Labs.
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College of Southern Idaho Dental Systems – a project to provide two complete dental systems for the Dental Assistant Learning Lab. The learning lab will also offer free sealant clinics as part of the program.
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Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers – mileage reimbursement for volunteers providing transportation and other services to the frail elderly, people with disabilities, and people with chronic illnesses in the Magic Valley.
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Magic Valley Paramedics: Public Access AED Expansion – funds will purchase web software to track community AED (Automated External Defibrillator) equipment readiness in the community.
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Magic Valley SAFE KIDS Coalition – funds will be used to provide injury prevention services, equipment, training and educational materials. 2006 plans will expand outreach to foster parents, grandparents/relatives raising children in the Magic Valley.
The Board also determined that a second round of applications would be accepted in February 2006. Applicants for the Community Health Improvement Fund were required to meet specific criteria and to address identified community health priorities in order to be selected for funding. 2006 Community Health Improvement funds may be awarded for proposals from eligible organizations that address one or more of the following community health priorities:
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Access to Care
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Injury and Violence
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Overweight and Obesity
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Mental Health
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Physical Activity
The MVRMC Board of Directors established these priorities utilizing community health assessments. Applicants are expected to demonstrate collaboration and coordination with other community organizations, including MVRMC. They must also include a mechanism with which to measure health improvements. Preference will be given to projects that support multiple communities in the South Central Idaho and Northern Nevada.
For more information about the Fund or the February 2006 application process, please call Jody Tremblay at 208-737-2943 or write to:
MVRMC Community Relations
Attn: Jody Tremblay
P.O. Box 409
Twin Falls, ID 83303
