Fiscal year 2003 was one of the most eventful 12-month periods in our history, resulting in improved healthcare services and convenience for the entire region served by the Chester River Health System.
As it neared completion, our $7 million Project 2000 produced dramatic enhancements in our appearance and the quality and scope of our services. At the same time, the Chester River Health System board of directors approved a new name for our hospital and strengthened our hospice care organization for patients and their families.
Better Facilities, Better Care
Among the many milestone achievements in Fiscal Year 2003 was the opening of our diagnostic cardiac catheterization lab, a state-of-the-art facility offering advanced diagnostic services to patients who previously had to travel to access this technology.
We are convinced that this outstanding addition to our care will help reduce the rate of heart-related deaths in our area.
We also aquired a second, faster nuclear imaging camera so we can continue to offer our patients the latest advances in the early detection of disease; and we installed a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system that will further enhance our diagnostic capabilities. Still more good news for patients came with the relocation of our sleep center, which features leading-edge equipment and expert staff to diagnose health-threatening sleep conditions.
Appearances Count
During the renovations that have taken place at Chester River Hospital Center, we have attempted to minimize the disruption to our patients and visitors. In Fiscal Year 2003, their patience was rewarded�major components were completed and our project entered its final phase. The most noticeable improvement came with the opening of our new entrance and lobby. The attractive, modern lobby and reception area is designed for convenience and comfort, making every visitor feel welcome and providing clear direction for a pleasant and successful healthcare experience.
New Name, New Addition
As our hospital has grown and health care has increased its emphasis on prevention, early detection, and outpatient procedures, we have recognized the need for our name to reflect our broader scope. In March, the health system board aligned our name with our vision by approving the renaming of Kent & Queen Anne`s Hospital as the Chester River Hospital Center. The change took effect at the start of the new fiscal year.
Another important change approved by the board was the merger of the Kent Hospice Foundation into the health system. In addition to eliminating public confusion over the roles of the two organizations, this joining of resources will enable the Kent Hospice Foundation to focus on fund-raising activities, while Chester River Home Care & Hospice offers a full spectrum of hospice services, from bereavement and social support to symptom treatment and pain management. This change also took effect at the beginning of the new fiscal year.
A Caring Community
Chester River Health System`s sweeping improvements would not have been possible without the generous support of residents, employees, businesses, and organizations throughout the region. Our �Raising the Standard of Excellence� capital campaign passed the $5 million mark in Fiscal Year 2003, and we are counting on the campaign`s continued success to help us complete our transformation into a healthcare provider that will serve the growing needs of our population for many years to come.
