Providing QualityC Care For Patients...And The Planet “It may be more convenient to dispose of old items, but we recycle everything from medical equip- (NAPSA)—Increasingly, saving the planet while saving lives is becoming part of the mission of health care institutions. This is true at Sacred Heart Hospital in ment, including surgical tools and wheelchairs, to everyday items like lightbulbs and paper,” Beckler explains. “During a recent twofloor renovation, we even recycled Eau Claire, Wis., where the insti- tution’s leadership has emphasized environmentally responsi- the porcelain sinks.” ble, “green activities.” They believe that this has helped to position the organization as an During the past two years, the hospital has contributed more industry leader in environmental than 37,000 pounds of surplus medical-related equipment valued initiatives. “Quality care for our patients is our primary goal, but taking care of the environment also is a top priority,” explains Steve Ronstrom, This healing garden uses na- to integrate green programs because we recognize the fundamental link between healthy peo- of the healing process. chief executive officer. “We strive ple and a healthy environment. ture’s beauty to promote relaxation, in a peaceful setting with benches and walkways, as part “We are dedicated to protecting the environment in every way pos- located in Eau Claire. “The support from Sacred Heart Hospital is incredible,” says initiatives are big, but they are tor of the St. Francis Food Pantry. sible,” Ronstrom adds. “Our green easy to implement. Any organization can adopt similar efforts, and we encourageit.” Sacred Heart Hospital is focused on green activities day in and day out. For instance, extra food is packaged into meals and delivered to a local food pantry every day. “It is a win-win situation,” says Rick Beckler, director of hospital- ity services and chair of the hospi- tal’s Green Team. “People in need are given fresh, nutritious food, and Sacred Heart Hospital is able to reduce costs associated with Michelle Gribble, executive direc- “Families who receive the healthy meals, which are prepared, packaged and delivered by the hospital, are extremely appreciative.” In addition, scrap food also is given to a local animal ranch for feeding—totaling 9,000 pounds last year. However, food donation is but one of manyinitiatives. Var- ious hospitalwide green efforts are practiced, all of which are managed by the Sacred Heart Hospital Green Team—focused on protecting the environment, preserving natural resources and reducing energy consumption. The Green Team is composed of leftover food being thrown out.” Leftovers may be small amounts of food each day, but over time—the leaders throughout the organiza- 46,800 pounds of food were given to the St. Francis Food Pantry, Inc., and set benchmark goals for reducing, reusing and recycling. impact is significant. In 2008, tion who help to assess past progress, review current status at more than $200,000. Part of the Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach Partners in Recycling Program, these items have been used in needy health care facilities in various countries around the globe. Beyond recycling and reusing, preserving nature’s natural beauty is another environmental initiative for Sacred Heart Hospital. Rooftop and healing gardens are maintained for the enjoyment of patients, their loved onesandstaff. Loyal to its Franciscan tradi- tion to respect creation, safeguard its people and practice good stewardship, Sacred Heart Hospital’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. Recently, the hospital was one of only six nationwide to be awarded the Environmental Leadership Award (ELA), presented by Practice Greenhealth. “The ELA distinguishes Sacred Heart Hospital as being among the best in the country for green efforts,” Beckler says. “It recognizes our innovative programs that set industry standards for waste reduction and pollution prevention. We are leading a trend that can benefit communities and inspire hospitals throughout the country.”
