Each year, departments within the Iredell Health System have the opportunity to apply for grants through the Grateful Patients and Families Fund. This fund is managed by the Iredell Health Foundation and aims to address unmet patient needs throughout the health system. In previous years, grant funds have been used for various purposes such as providing blanket warmers in radiation therapy and wound care, as well as food, medications, and enhancements to living situations. This year, five projects received grants.
One project is “Dressed for Discharge,” which last year created a clothing closet at Iredell Memorial Hospital. This initiative provides clothing for patients who would otherwise leave in paper scrubs due to soiled or damaged clothing. The program served 51 patients last year and will expand this year to include patients at Iredell Davis Behavioral Health Hospital.
Another project is “SPARK- The Power of Prevention.” The Iredell Wellness and Diabetes Center was awarded a grant to purchase interactive health education tools aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle changes and preventing chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke.
The “Enhancing Patient Experience through Recreational Therapy” project focuses on improving patient wellbeing through therapeutic activities. As a grant recipient, recreational therapists at Iredell Davis Behavioral Health Hospital now have access to equipment that supports arts and crafts, sports activities, mindfulness practices, and social interaction groups.
Additionally, funding has been allocated for “Grieving Baskets for Comfort Care.” This initiative will provide items such as essential oil diffusers and blankets in baskets for families experiencing loss at Iredell Memorial Hospital.
Finally, the Point of Care Ultrasound Training project supports internal medicine residents with ultrasound training. This enables them to conduct more accurate physical assessments of patients noninvasively.
These projects were made possible by contributions from grateful patients and their families. Those interested in supporting community wellbeing can donate to the Grateful Patient and Families Fund through the Iredell Health Foundation.
