On Tuesday, June 27, the Board of Directors of the North Arkansas Regional Medical Center (NARMC) gathered for their monthly meeting, during which they received an update on the Medical Application of Science for Health (MASH) program.
Sammie Cribbs, the President/CEO, informed the board about the graduation status of the MASH students. This collaborative program with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) provides local high school students with a unique opportunity to spend two weeks immersed in the healthcare workforce environment. Cribbs emphasized that the program allows NARMC staff to share their knowledge about their respective roles, the work environment, and how they serve the community. The goal is to inspire and recruit these talented students to become future healthcare leaders at NARMC.
Cribbs encouraged anyone interested in pursuing a career in healthcare to seek out shadowing opportunities and learn about the various options available. She shared an insightful comment from one of the MASH students who expressed surprise at the sheer number of people required to run a hospital. Cribbs affirmed the importance of every individual with an NARMC badge, emphasizing their essential role in the healthcare delivery system.
Cribbs highlighted the exceptional performance of the mammography department in May, surpassing pre-COVID-19 records. She emphasized the significance of preventative medicine in safeguarding the health of the community and urged everyone to prioritize preventative health screenings, regular annual visits with primary care providers, and any additional recommended tests based on individual needs.
The MRI department also achieved a monthly record in May. Cribbs commended the highly skilled radiologists and dedicated radiology staff for their tireless efforts in caring for the community.
The hospital team actively monitors data regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the community. This ongoing analysis helps identify significant changes or emerging needs. Cribbs shared positive news that the weekly COVID-19 rate has remained below 5% of those tested over the past 12 weeks. While there are still some infections, most cases can be treated on an outpatient basis, and currently, there are no COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital.
Cribbs mentioned that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued Health Advisory notices for measles and malaria. The updates have been shared with NARMC providers, but as of now, there are no reported cases in the area. NARMC will continue to rely on guidance from the Arkansas Health Department and CDC as they monitor these matters closely.