Each month, Andrea Burch, President of InterMountain Lutheran Hospital, shares insights on healthcare innovation, community wellness initiatives, and behind-the-scenes updates on how the new hospital is taking shape. From medical breakthroughs to heartfelt patient stories, this interview connects our readers with the pulse of local healthcare.
What is the status of West Pines Behavioral Hospital?
West Pines will move its inpatients to the new 144-bed hospital at 11455 Huron Street in Westminster and will cease all operations at its current location on the former Lutheran Medical Center campus in mid-March. The new facility will expand access to inpatient services through the new majority owner, Acadia Healthcare, which is a national behavioral healthcare provider. The partnership with Acadia Healthcare will assure continued service to the community, providing a holistic approach to hope, healing and recovery from addiction and other behavioral health conditions.
What is Lutheran doing to enhance security measures at the hospital?
We’re thrilled to have two K9 security teams join the Lutheran family at the end of March to help us maintain a safe and healing environment for patients, visitors and caregivers. The dogs and their handlers underwent extensive formal training for months before coming to the hospital. They will patrol the building and grounds and can assist in de-escalating potential harmful situations and help prevent aggressive behavior towards caregivers and visitors. In life-threatening situations, the K9s are trained to protect patients, visitors and caregivers by putting themselves between the threat and those in danger. The dogs wear muzzles at all times, and unlike traditional police dogs, they are also trained to provide comfort and be social.
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Is Lutheran doing anything to recognize it?
We are! On Friday, March 17, we will have a giant inflatable colon at the hospital from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. We would love to have the public come out that day to see it. Members of our Oncology team will be present to share information about recommended screenings, prevention and warning signs of colon cancer. It will be a great photo opportunity as well.
