Despite challenges due to ongoing water issues, hospital staff are going above the call of duty to support their patients and coworkers.

As the Richmond region navigates challenges posed by the ongoing water issues, CHoR and VCU Health remain committed to delivering high-quality patient care through the incredible efforts of our team members.

"The water disruption has reminded us of the extraordinary resilience and dedication of our team members,” said Marlon Levy, M.D., senior vice president for VCU Health Sciences and CEO of VCU Health System. “I want to personally thank every team member, emergency responder, and community partner who has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety and care of our patients and the greater Richmond community. Your tireless efforts during this time are nothing short of heroic.”

Take a look at CHoR and VCU Health's response to the water crisis in Richmond

Providing high-quality care under difficult circumstances would not be possible without a team of truly dedicated health care workers and hospital staff. From coordinating bottled water distribution to establishing an around-the-clock emergency command center, VCU Health team members have risen to the occasion with unwavering commitment, ensuring that the health system remains a safe haven for patients and their families.

“Our team rose to the challenge and managed extraordinarily difficult times with compassion, dedication and collaboration. Their efforts reflect the best of VCU Health,” Levy added.

The health system continues to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its patients, team members, and community. Some of those measures include:

• Securing additional water supplies in partnership with local and state agencies (for both patients and staff).
• Practicing conservation efforts.
• Implementing best practices in hospital grade hygiene.

As we continue to prioritize patient care and staff wellness, we are also looking ahead. One of our top priorities will be rescheduling the more than 20,000 appointments that we postponed due to the water disruption.

Thank you to RMHC Richmond, CJ’s Thumbs Up and all the community organizations that have supported our patients, families and team members during these high-stress times. 

By Danielle Pierce

This story was originally published on VCU Health News.

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