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	<title>Community Archives - Northwest Community Healthcare</title>
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	<description>Expert care. Right here.</description>
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		<title>We Ask Because We Care: The REAL (Race, Ethnicity and preferred Language) impact</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/real-data-improved-care/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:55:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=56699</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>We began asking patients like you to volunteer their Race, Ethnicity and preferred Language (REAL) information. Why do we ask? Because it makes healthcare better for everybody. To understand how it improves health for all, dive into the REAL story of Diana and Sonia.Diana Alvarez is our Community Health Equity Liaison. A few months ago, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/real-data-improved-care/">We Ask Because We Care: The REAL (Race, Ethnicity and preferred Language) impact</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>We began asking patients like you to volunteer their Race, Ethnicity and preferred Language (REAL) information. Why do we ask? Because it makes healthcare better for everybody. To understand how it improves health for all, dive into the REAL story of Diana and Sonia.</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="548" height="548" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-56700" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story.jpg 548w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story-300x300.jpg 300w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story-100x100.jpg 100w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story-320x320.jpg 320w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Community-REAL-Sonia-and-Diana-story-480x480.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 548px) 100vw, 548px" /></figure><p>Diana Alvarez is our Community Health Equity Liaison. A few months ago, she met Sonia, a patient who wanted to schedule an automated whole breast ultrasound (ABUS). Sonia had two problems: Insurance would not cover her procedure, and she only speaks Spanish.</p><p>Language plays a huge role in Sonia’s ability to access healthcare. Many resources are provided in English and translated into Spanish, along with other languages. Fortunately, dedicated liaisons, educators and translators exist to support patients with language needs — that’s why REAL Data is so important. Information you provide about your language or cultural background is used to improve patient care and identify community needs.</p><p>People like Diana Alvarez joined NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health to address those needs. Growing up, Diana helped her family navigate the healthcare system, and she often served as a Spanish translator during visits to the doctor’s office. When she learned about Sonia’s challenge, Diana immediately connected her to a community partner who covered the ABUS and scheduled it at NorthShore Immediate Care Center in Gurnee. In the end, Sonia’s results came back healthy. We sat down with Sonia and translated her thoughts on the experience.</p><p>“I wish there were more people like Diana,” said Sonia, “She’s helping a lot of people to not get sick, and the best thing about her is her big heart. It takes someone who has gone through a lot to understand others and go out of their way to help.”</p><p>Thanks to REAL Data, there <em>are </em>more people like Diana throughout our health system. In fact, some primary care locations employ Spanish-speaking diabetes educators.</p><p>“Early on, when we looked at the data, we saw that the rate of diabetes among the Hispanic and African -American population was much higher than our general patient population,” said Annette Kenney, Chief Strategy Officer at NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health. “That prompted us to establish a pilot program where we embedded a Spanish-speaking diabetes educators and navigators into primary care offices in the Addison community.”</p><p>What does this program mean to you? A successful educator program may help you or someone you love avoid a trip to the hospital or the emergency department. Overall, it allows us to provide better care and improve healthcare for all our patients.</p><p><strong>Help us improve your care by updating your REAL information</strong></p><p>Help us understand your healthcare needs and make a REAL impact. By knowing about your race, ethnicity and preferred language, we’re able to better personalize patient care and inform you about diseases and conditions that may impact your health.</p><p>If you haven’t already done so, consider updating your information in <a href="http://mychart.nch.org/mychart">MyChart</a> (go to Your Menu, Account Settings, Personal Information, Details About Me, select “Edit”). Your information is kept strictly confidential and is protected by HIPAA. Learn more about how this improves your care <a href="https://www.northshore.org/we-ask/">here</a>, or <a href="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/NSEEH_REALData_TipSheet.pdf">view our tip sheet</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/real-data-improved-care/">We Ask Because We Care: The REAL (Race, Ethnicity and preferred Language) impact</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>Free Zero Harm Event – July 22</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/free-zero-harm-event-july-22/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Jul 2023 21:24:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[event]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=56139</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A collaboration of area Police, NCH and St. Simon’s Episcopal ChurchAll are welcome, rain or shine, on Saturday, July 22 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for a free safety event supporting members of the surrounding communities. Activities will be located in St. Simon’s Episcopal Church Parking Lot (717 W. Kirchhoff Road) and parking will [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/free-zero-harm-event-july-22/">Free Zero Harm Event – July 22</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="has-text-align-center"><strong><em>A collaboration of area Police, NCH and St. Simon’s Episcopal Church</em></strong></p><p>All are welcome, rain or shine, on Saturday, July 22 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for a free safety event supporting members of the surrounding communities. Activities will be located in St. Simon’s Episcopal Church Parking Lot (717 W. Kirchhoff Road) and parking will be available in Northwest Community Healthcare’s (NCH) Busse Center Parking Garage.</p><p>Services offered include: Drug take-back (prescription, illegal and sharps); child safety seat inspection and instruction; bicycle safety; Peddlecar Impaired Driving Program (ages 16+); In Plain Sight Situational Awareness Program for parents; NCH —Behavioral Health Education and Railroad Grade Crossing education for drivers and pedestrians from the Metra Police.</p><p>This event also is an opportunity for local residents to turn in any unwanted working guns they may have, no questions asked, in exchange for a $100 reward. All firearms will be destroyed. Police Departments from Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Palatine and Rolling Meadows are working with NCH and St. Simon’s Episcopal Church to bring this zero harm event to the community.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/free-zero-harm-event-july-22/">Free Zero Harm Event – July 22</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>Northwest Community Healthcare hosts Mental Health First Aid Course</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/northwest-community-healthcare-hosts-mental-health-first-aid-course/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:14:49 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=56129</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Youth (Blended) Mental Health First Aid:&#160; CPR for the brainYouth with mental health disorders often experience difficulties in a variety of settings, including at home with their own families, in school and in the community. Parents, teachers, coaches, clergy and others may struggle to recognize and manage the needs of these adolescents.Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/northwest-community-healthcare-hosts-mental-health-first-aid-course/">Northwest Community Healthcare hosts Mental Health First Aid Course</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Youth (Blended) Mental Health First Aid:&nbsp; CPR for the brain</em></p><p>Youth with mental health disorders often experience difficulties in a variety of settings, including at home with their own families, in school and in the community. Parents, teachers, coaches, clergy and others may struggle to recognize and manage the needs of these adolescents.</p><p>Linden Oaks Behavioral Health, part of NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health, is offering Youth Mental Health First Aid at Northwest Community Healthcare in Arlington Heights on Thursday, July 20 from 4-9 p.m. This course is designed for adults who regularly interact with young people.&nbsp;</p><p>Youth Mental&nbsp; Health First Aid teaches parents, family members, caregivers,&nbsp; teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and&nbsp; human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis.</p><p>Topics covered will include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD) and eating disorders.</p><p>Participants will learn signs and symptoms of mental illness, protective factors/risk factors and intervention strategies. The training objectives include how to safely and effectively support a person experiencing mental health distress.</p><p>The course is held in two parts, first as a required 2-hour, self-paced online class, followed by a 5-hour in-person, instructor-led class. Six CEUs are available for LCSW/LSW, LCPC/LPC, LMFT, Psyd. For more information or to register, visit <a href="https://072023bmhfa.eventbrite.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://072023bmhfa.eventbrite.com</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/northwest-community-healthcare-hosts-mental-health-first-aid-course/">Northwest Community Healthcare hosts Mental Health First Aid Course</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH Foundation Awards Scholarships to 3 Student Volunteers</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-foundation-awards-scholarships-to-3-student-volunteers/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 May 2023 16:23:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=55824</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Northwest Community Hospital (NCH) Foundation recently awarded three top student volunteers of 2022 each with a $500 scholarship. The Nana’s Joy Award is a scholarship through the NCH Foundation funded by an anonymous donor. The award started in 2021 and recognizes the efforts of students who dedicate their time and support to NCH patients, visitors [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-foundation-awards-scholarships-to-3-student-volunteers/">NCH Foundation Awards Scholarships to 3 Student Volunteers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Northwest Community Hospital (NCH) Foundation recently awarded three top student volunteers of 2022 each with a $500 scholarship. The <em>Nana’s Joy Award</em> is a scholarship through the NCH Foundation funded by an anonymous donor. The award started in 2021 and recognizes the efforts of students who dedicate their time and support to NCH patients, visitors and staff.</p><p>The anonymous donor created the scholarship to honor his mother, and named it for two things that brought joy to her life – children and helping others through volunteerism. “My mother always felt it important that if you had any good fortune in your life that you should give back. She did not have much in terms of financial resources but would volunteer her time,” he said. “Following her advice, I personally have received much joy and friendships from volunteering. Creating the <em>Nana’s Joy Award</em> at NCH for teen volunteers was a way to contribute to a place I value while honoring my mother’s memory and life’s values.”</p><p>Award recipients must have given at least 100 hours in that year and have been volunteering consistently for more than one year (preferred) or a minimum of six months consistently.</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/collage-student-scholars.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-55825" width="443" height="252" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/collage-student-scholars.jpg 590w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/collage-student-scholars-320x182.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 443px) 100vw, 443px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><br><em><strong>Janvi Patel, Karina Patel and Lauren Ryoo</strong></em></figcaption></figure><ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Karina Patel – A Mobile Dental Clinic volunteer, Karina is a senior at Loyola University Chicago, majoring in biology with a minor in statistics. She is pursuing a career in dentistry. Karina volunteered for 159 hours in 2022 and has served a total of 187 hours since she began in June 2022.</li>

<li>Janvi Patel – A Main Entrance and Busse Outpatient Lab volunteer, Janvi is a senior at Rolling Meadows High School. She plans to attend Marquette University’s Pre-Dental Scholar Program, pursuing a career in orthodontics. Janvi volunteered for 156 hours in 2022 and has served a total of 230 hours since she began in 2021.</li>

<li>Lauren Ryoo – A Main Entrance volunteer, Lauren is a senior at Rolling Meadows High School. She will attend Northwestern University, and plans to pursue a career in medicine/healthcare. Lauren volunteered for 140 hours in 2022 and has served a total of 246 hours since she began in 2021.</li></ul><p>In 2022, 108 students made up 14% of all volunteer hours at NCH which translates into 5,428 hours total. For more information about volunteering at NCH, please visit <a href="https://www.nch.org/volunteer/high-school-program/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.nch.org/volunteer/high-school-program/</a> For more information about contributing to the NCH Foundation, please visit <a href="https://www.nch.org/foundation/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.nch.org/foundation/</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-foundation-awards-scholarships-to-3-student-volunteers/">NCH Foundation Awards Scholarships to 3 Student Volunteers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>Edward Foundation Awards $20,000 in Scholarships to Student Volunteers</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/edward-foundation-awards-20000-in-scholarships-to-student-volunteers/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 May 2023 16:15:54 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=55717</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The Edward Foundation has awarded $20,000 in scholarships to 10 Edward Hospital student volunteers, who greet visitors, deliver flowers, transport patients and assist behind the scenes at the hospital. Each of the following students from area high schools will receive a $2,000 scholarship:Since it was established in 1990, the Edward Foundation has raised more than [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/edward-foundation-awards-20000-in-scholarships-to-student-volunteers/">Edward Foundation Awards $20,000 in Scholarships to Student Volunteers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Edward Foundation has awarded $20,000 in scholarships to 10 Edward Hospital student volunteers, who greet visitors, deliver flowers, transport patients and assist behind the scenes at the hospital. Each of the following students from area high schools will receive a $2,000 scholarship:</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Scholarship-Photo-Edward-Foundation.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-55718" width="540" height="380" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Scholarship-Photo-Edward-Foundation.jpg 720w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Scholarship-Photo-Edward-Foundation-600x423.jpg 600w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Scholarship-Photo-Edward-Foundation-640x451.jpg 640w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Volunteer-Scholarship-Photo-Edward-Foundation-320x225.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><br>Aparnaa Ananthakrishnan, Aurora; Nathan Wang, Naperville; Avani Mathur, Aurora; Elyse Huang, Naperville; Alexandria Tang, Naperville; Kaley Conroy, Naperville; Mackenzie Welsh, Romeoville; Emaan Faruqi, Naperville; Rohan Patel, Plainfield and Ebere Udeogu, Plainfield.</figcaption></figure><ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Aparnaa Ananthakrishnan, Aurora, Metea Valley High School</li>

<li>Kaley Conroy, Naperville, Neuqua Valley High School</li>

<li>Emaan Faruqi, Naperville, Neuqua Valley High School</li>

<li>Elyse Huang, Naperville, Naperville North High School</li>

<li>Avani Mathur, Aurora, Oswego East High School</li>

<li>Rohan Patel, Plainfield, Plainfield North High School</li>

<li>Alexandria Tang, Naperville, Naperville North High School</li>

<li>Ebere Udeogu, Plainfield, Plainfield North High School</li>

<li>Nathan Wang, Naperville, Waubonsie Valley High School</li>

<li>Mackenzie Welsh, Romeoville, Romeoville High School</li></ul><p>Since it was established in 1990, the Edward Foundation has raised more than $57 million to support Edward Hospital’s community healthcare initiatives, invest in the most advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, recruit world-class medical professionals and deliver the highest quality care to almost 1.7 million patients in its service area. To make a donation to or for more information about the Foundation, call (630) 527-3954 or visit <a href="http://www.edwardfoundation.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.edwardfoundation.org</a>.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/edward-foundation-awards-20000-in-scholarships-to-student-volunteers/">Edward Foundation Awards $20,000 in Scholarships to Student Volunteers</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH requesting community feedback</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requesting-community-feedback-2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 18 Apr 2023 18:03:21 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=55322</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) has launched an online survey to gauge the health needs of residents in the hospital’s surrounding communities.The purpose of this assessment is to identify major health problems, gaps in services and other factors that affect the health of residents in the NCH market. This information will be incorporated with findings from [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requesting-community-feedback-2/">NCH requesting community feedback</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Northwest Community Healthcare (NCH) has launched an online survey to gauge the health needs of residents in the hospital’s surrounding communities.</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Comm-Feedback.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-55323" width="525" height="350" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Comm-Feedback.jpg 700w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Comm-Feedback-600x399.jpg 600w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Comm-Feedback-640x426.jpg 640w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Comm-Feedback-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px" /></figure><p>The purpose of this assessment is to identify major health problems, gaps in services and other factors that affect the health of residents in the NCH market. This information will be incorporated with findings from focus groups, a key informant survey and demographic and secondary data. Once this process is complete, NCH will use the resulting information to develop strategic plans and goals and work collaboratively with others to improve the health of the community.</p><p>&nbsp;“NCH has been surveying the hospital community for 28 years,” said Karen Baker, executive director, Community Services and Advocacy at NCH. “We feel it’s the best way to help us plan our outreach initiatives and allocate our resources.”</p><p>NCH is inviting residents of Arlington Heights, Barrington, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Island Lake, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Mount Prospect, Mundelein, Northbrook, Palatine, Prospect Heights, Rolling Meadows, Roselle, Round Lake, Schaumburg, Streamwood, Vernon Hills, Wauconda and Wheeling to complete the confidential survey online, which takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Questions cover access to health care, chronic disease, behavioral health and other health issues and concerns. Participants are also asked to identify their top three health needs for the community; responses will be anonymous. The survey is available at <a href="https://www.nch.org/survey" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.nch.org/survey</a> through April 28.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requesting-community-feedback-2/">NCH requesting community feedback</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH Community Blood Drive December 21</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-december-21/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Dec 2022 20:35:59 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=51113</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Thanks to the NCH community, we are nearing 300 individual blood donations this year. As of press time, we have collected 285 units of blood with one event still to go. This could help save the lives of up to 855 people.Donating blood is a gift that doesn’t add to your credit card bill. No [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-december-21/">NCH Community Blood Drive December 21</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thanks to the NCH community, we are nearing 300 individual blood donations this year. As of press time, we have collected 285 units of blood with one event still to go. This could help save the lives of up to 855 people.</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive0914-2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49762" width="540" height="360" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive0914-2.jpg 720w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive0914-2-600x400.jpg 600w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive0914-2-640x427.jpg 640w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive0914-2-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Blood Drive</figcaption></figure><p>Donating blood is a gift that doesn’t add to your credit card bill. No need for wrapping paper or writing a special card. To some recipients and their loved ones, donated blood may save or change their lives. Between your holiday baking, gift shopping and tree trimming, please consider offering some time to help others. Make an appointment today at NCH or any local blood bank.</p><p>Upcoming Community Blood Drive at NCH </p><p>Join us between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 21, in Rooms 6 and 7 of the main hospital to donate blood. Many appointments remain open. To make an appointment online, please visit <a href="https://bit.ly/DonateBlood-12-21-22" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://bit.ly/DonateBlood-12-21-22</a>. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins are welcome. Photo ID and mask are required.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-december-21/">NCH Community Blood Drive December 21</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH Community Blood Drive Nov. 29 – I didn’t think I could&#8230;</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-nov-29-i-didnt-think-i-could/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2022 19:07:37 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blood drive]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=50845</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If you ask a person if they have ever donated blood and the reply is negative, the response often includes, “I didn’t think I could because…” There are many assumptions and misconceptions about eligibility or ineligibility of blood donation. Versiti is a great resource to answer those questions.According to the Mayo Clinic, a person 17+, [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-nov-29-i-didnt-think-i-could/">NCH Community Blood Drive Nov. 29 – I didn’t think I could&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you ask a person if they have ever donated blood and the reply is negative, the response often includes, “I didn’t think I could because…” There are many assumptions and misconceptions about eligibility or ineligibility of blood donation. <a href="http://www.versiti.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Versiti</a> is a great resource to answer those questions.</p><p>According to the Mayo Clinic, a person 17+, feeling healthy and at least 110 pounds is eligible unless they are considered high risk for blood borne infections which includes:</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/iStock-1338750217.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-47492" width="509" height="339" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/iStock-1338750217.jpg 509w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/iStock-1338750217-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 509px) 100vw, 509px" /></figure><ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Anyone who has used injected drugs, steroids or another substance not prescribed by a doctor in the past three months.</li><li>Men who have had sexual contact with other men in the past three months.</li><li>Anyone who has a congenital coagulation factor deficiency.</li><li>Anyone who has had a positive test for HIV.</li><li>Anyone who has engaged in sex for money or drugs in the past three months.</li><li>Anyone who, in the past 12 months, has had close contact with — lived with or had sexual contact with — a person who has viral hepatitis.</li><li>Anyone who has had babesiosis, a rare and severe tick-borne disease, or the parasitic infection Chagas&#8217; disease.</li><li>Anyone who has taken the psoriasis medication Etretinate (Tegison), which has been discontinued in the U.S.</li><li>Anyone who received a blood transfusion in the United Kingdom or France from 1980 to the present.</li></ul><p>Some relevant updates:</p><p>COVID-19: The Food and Drug Administration suggests waiting to donate blood for at least 14 days after a positive diagnostic test for COVID-19 without symptoms or for at least 14 days after symptoms of COVID-19 have completely cleared up.</p><p>COVID-19 Vaccine: Individuals must wait two days after the day of vaccination to donate blood or platelets.</p><p>Dental work: Donation is acceptable after routine teeth cleaning or dental work.</p><p>Diabetes: Only insulin dependent individuals who have used Bovine insulin are not eligible to donate blood.</p><p>Mad Cow disease:&nbsp; As of Aug. 16, 2022, following recent FDA guidance, vCJD geographic risk deferrals will end for individuals who spent time in U.K. or Europe. vCJD is commonly referred to as “Mad Cow disease.”</p><p>Medications: Most medications do not prevent you from donating blood. Common medications — such as those used to control blood pressure, birth control pills and over-the-counter medications — do not affect your eligibility. If you&#8217;re taking antibiotics, you must complete the course before donating. For more information about other medications, see Versiti.org.</p><p>Tattoos or Piercing: Getting a tattoo or piercing recently from a licensed establishment does not make you ineligible to donate blood.</p><p>Travel: Most travel is acceptable. There are certain countries and popular travel destinations that are malaria risk areas. If you&#8217;ve traveled to these areas, we&#8217;ll ask you to wait 3 months before you donate.</p><p>Did this answer your question? Please consider giving the gift of your blood this holiday season. It would be a gift that won’t affect your credit card bill, we promise.</p><p>Upcoming Community Blood Drive at NCH</p><p>Join us between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 29, in Rooms 6 and 7 of the main hospital to donate blood. Many appointments remain open. To make an appointment online, please visit <a href="https://bit.ly/Blood-Drive-11-29-22" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://bit.ly/Blood-Drive-11-29-22</a>. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins are welcome. Photo ID and mask are required. NCH works with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois and has scheduled the next blood drive on Dec. 21.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-nov-29-i-didnt-think-i-could/">NCH Community Blood Drive Nov. 29 – I didn’t think I could&#8230;</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH Community Blood Drive October 26</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-october-26/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 10 Oct 2022 14:20:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=50005</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Our September Blood Drive collected 31 units which could help up to 93 people. Have you donated lately? Here are some more facts about blood donations.4.5 million&#160;Americans need a blood transfusion each year.43,000 pints: amount of donated blood used each day in the U.S. and Canada.About one in seven people entering a hospital need blood.Forty-two&#160;days: [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-october-26/">NCH Community Blood Drive October 26</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Our September Blood Drive collected 31 units which could help up to 93 people. Have you donated lately? Here are some more facts about blood donations.</p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-50006" width="418" height="418" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq.jpg 836w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-300x300.jpg 300w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-100x100.jpg 100w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-600x599.jpg 600w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-640x639.jpg 640w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-768x767.jpg 768w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-320x320.jpg 320w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Blood-Drive-8-sq-480x480.jpg 480w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 418px) 100vw, 418px" /></figure><ul class="wp-block-list"><li>4.5 million&nbsp;Americans need a blood transfusion each year.</li><li>43,000 pints: amount of donated blood used each day in the U.S. and Canada.</li><li>About one in seven people entering a hospital need blood.</li><li>Forty-two&nbsp;days: how long most donated red blood cells can be stored.</li><li>Thirteen tests (11 for infectious diseases) are performed on each unit of donated blood.</li><li>If all blood donors gave three times a year, blood shortages would be a rare event. (The current average is about two.).</li><li>If only one percent more of all Americans would give blood, blood shortages would disappear for the foreseeable future.</li></ul><p>Remember, you can donate blood if you are 17 years old or older, in good health and weigh more than 110 pounds.</p><p>A red blood cell donation takes 30 minutes or less after initial screening, and a platelet donation takes 90 minutes or less after initial screening. Also, donors receive a free wellness exam that includes blood pressure, temperature and pulse checks and a hemoglobin/iron test.</p><p>Upcoming Community Blood Drive at NCH</p><p>Join us between 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, October 26, in Rooms 6 and 7 of the main hospital to donate blood. Many appointments remain open. To make an appointment online, please visit <a href="https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/5599968">https://donate.illinois.versiti.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/5599968</a>. Appointments are preferred; however, walk-ins are welcome. Photo ID and mask are required. NCH works with Versiti Blood Center of Illinois and has scheduled blood drives on Nov. 29 and Dec. 21.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-community-blood-drive-october-26/">NCH Community Blood Drive October 26</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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		<title>NCH Requests Applications for Community Funding</title>
		<link>https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requests-applications-for-community-funding/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Wetmore]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 04 Oct 2022 19:08:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.nch.org/?p=49961</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Community-connected care is at the essence of Northwest Community Healthcare’s missionNorthShore – Edwards-Elmhurst Health has a combined mission to help everyone in our communities be their best. As a part of the new health system, Northwest Community Hospital (NCH) constantly strives to improve access to care and promote health and wellness in Arlington Heights and [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requests-applications-for-community-funding/">NCH Requests Applications for Community Funding</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Community-connected care is at the essence of Northwest Community Healthcare’s mission</em></p><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Hospital-Exterior-Street-Facing.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-49960" width="540" height="360" srcset="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Hospital-Exterior-Street-Facing.jpg 720w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Hospital-Exterior-Street-Facing-600x400.jpg 600w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Hospital-Exterior-Street-Facing-640x427.jpg 640w, https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/Hospital-Exterior-Street-Facing-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 540px) 100vw, 540px" /></figure><p>NorthShore – Edwards-Elmhurst Health has a combined mission to help everyone in our communities be their best<em>. </em>As a part of the new health system, Northwest Community Hospital (NCH) constantly strives to improve access to care and promote health and wellness in Arlington Heights and surrounding communities.</p><p>Every three years, NCH conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) to help identify the community’s most predominant needs and determine where to direct efforts and resources. To help address these priorities and unmet needs, limited funds are allocated for not-for-profit community organizations with missions that align with the current needs of our community. This year, in addition to accepting applications that address the needs identified in the CHNA, requests for programs and initiatives that address community violence will be welcome.</p><p>“It is an honor to collaborate with our local community partners to assist the under-resourced people who live and work here,” said Steve Scogna, President and CEO of NCH. “Thank you for your valued and much-needed efforts in our community.” Requests for Donations (RFD) will be accepted from October 1 through October 31, 2022 for funding that will be awarded beginning in January 2023. To apply for funding, access the <a href="https://www.nch.org/wp-content/uploads/2023-charitable-donations-form.docx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RFD form</a> and submission guidelines and submit it no later than October 31, 2022.</p><p>The post <a href="https://www.nch.org/news/nch-requests-applications-for-community-funding/">NCH Requests Applications for Community Funding</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.nch.org">Northwest Community Healthcare</a>.</p>
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