Compiled by Debra Scherban. Please send items to dscherban@gazettenet.com.
Cooley Dickinson has expanded hours at its hospital-based Urgent Care clinic, and clinicians now treat children ages 2 and up.
Walk-in hours are Monday through Friday, noon to 8 p.m, and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Those electing to go to Urgent Care should check with their insurance carriers to determine whether a referral or pre-authorization is required. No appointment is needed.
The Urgent Care clinic is located in the main corridor at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, just inside the main entrance, and offers immediate care for injuries including sprains, minor fractures and minor cuts.
Staff also treat urgent but non-life-threatening illnesses such as cold and flu symptoms, sore throats, viral illnesses, rashes and infections.
In addition, Cooley Dickinson Urgent Care offers on-site X-ray and lab services as needed, and also provides routine health care services such as sports and camp physicals.
More information is available at cooleydickinson.org/urgentcare or call 582-2330.
The registered nurses of Mercy Medical Center and Providence Behavioral Health Hospital in Springfield, represented by the Massachusetts Nurses Association, have partnered with their employer to create a domestic abuse assistance program for staff members.
“As nurses, we have an important role to play ensuring the health and safety of not only our patients but also our colleagues, our peers, friends and loved ones,” said Cathy Penniman, RN, BSN, at Mercy Medical Center.
A Domestic Violence Task Force, which includes nurses and adminstrators, has been formed to develop safety policies and materials for all employees. Resources include outside assistance, such as from government agencies and nonprofits; reserved parking spaces; escorts to vehicles; increased security; spiritual care; leave of absence provisions; assistance on work time; and educational materials.
Domestic violence is a widespread problem. On average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. During one year, this equates to more than 10 million women and men. Nearly one in three Massachusetts women has experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner, the coalition says.
“Victims of abuse often feel ashamed and frightened, but talking about their experiences is an important step in moving toward safety, and ultimately, toward a better life,” said Jess Calcidise, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at Mercy Medical Center. “It is vitally important that our colleagues have information about the resources available to help themselves, co-workers, family members and friends deal with a domestic violence situation.”
Andrea Fox, an associate director in the MNA’s Division of Labor Action, credited Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan’s office with helping develop the idea for the program following her participation in a day-long program run by Sullivan’s Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit.
“The secretive nature of this crime allows it to continue,” she said. “Through communication with peers who are ready to provide assistance, victims of domestic violence receive comfort and strength.”
Wednesday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Thornes Market, 150 Main St., Northampton
Thursday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., First Congregational Church, 41 Main St., Hatfield
Friday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Hampshire Mall, 367 Russell S., Hadley