Good year for Riverside Sarah Berg/Norma Elliott acclaimed to board

Ken Johnston

Unlike days gone by, Riverside Health Care Facilities held its annual meeting in Rainy River Thursday with more board members than audience.
Without any controversial issues affecting hospitals in Emo or Rainy River attendance has been sparse the past few years, unlike a decade ago, when the arena in Rainy River was packed.
Chief Executive Officer Wayne Woods said it has been an interesting year with Riverside taking over management of Rainycrest and whipping it back into shape, “Thanks to one of our board members (Norma Elliott) for coming out of retirement to do so!”
Woods also noted that the opening of Phase IV of the Laverendrye Hospital project was another big highlight over the past year. “Everyone thinks the new facility is just excellent.”
Financially, Woods said the corporation is in good shape. “We had to sign an accountability agreement and I do not foresee and financial problems for the next couple of years.”
Chief of Staff, Dr. Philip Whatley noted that biggest challenge for the staff was the loss of, “the group of three” doctors.That immediately left the hospital’s ability to deliver chemotherapy in peril. But Whatley said they coped and kept going with that service.
Obstetrics was also stretched to the limit and they have been looking at ways to deal with the need for delivery of babies. “We are looking at engaging midwives and we do appreciate the help from nurse practitioners.”
Board member Wendy Judson reported on the Riverside Foundation’s successes over the past year noting that they received over $375,000 in donations and turned over $1.5 million to complete their commitment to the Care Close to Home Campaign (totalling $3.5 million). Judson is optimistic that the district will continue to be extremely generous as the efforts to raise money for a CT Scanner get into full swing.
One new member was elected to the Riverside board. Sarah Berg, of Rainy River, was acclaimed to a three year term. Norma Elliott of Rainy River, Telford Advent of Stratton and Wendy Judson of Emo all agreed to let their names stand for reelection and were acclaimed as well.
Board chair Robin Wright publically acknowledged the contributions of three departing board members, Brig McGreevy (served five years), Jeanne Pasch (four yrs.) and Noreen Robertson (hosp. aux. rep. for six years).
Joan Mudge of Fort Frances will now be the Hosp. Aux. representative for all three auxiliaries.