About YRMC

  • Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Reach Agreement

    by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Mar 08, 2023

    (PHOENIX, Ariz. – April 28, 2023) - Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) are pleased to announce they have reached a new network agreement. This agreement is effective April 1, 2023, and therefore all services from that date will be handled as in network.

    The goal was always to continue to provide patients and members with quality, convenient, and affordable health care in Yavapai County. Both organizations thank the community for their patience throughout the negotiations.

    “After many months of negotiations, we are very pleased that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona has agreed to a new contract that will put our patients first and keep health care local,” says Anthony Torres, MD, President and CEO of Dignity Health YRMC and YRMG. “Providing local high-quality health care services is a top priority and we look forward to furthering our mission of improving the health of those who call Yavapai County home.”

    “Standing up for our members has always been our priority, and we are thankful that Yavapai Regional Medical Center joined us in this effort,” said Dr. Cara Christ, Chief Medical Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. “Together, we can ensure those in Yavapai County have access to the care they need while protecting affordability.”

    Patients and BCBSAZ members who have questions about the new agreement, can contact BCBSAZ or its affiliated health plan using the phone number on the back of their insurance card or reaching out to [email protected]. Patients and members can also call YRMC at 702-616-5786.

  • Setting the record straight on YRMC-Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona negotiations

    by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Feb 08, 2023

    A message from Anthony Torres, MD, President and CEO at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center

    Anthony Torres, MD
    As the president and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) as well as a longtime physician and resident of the Yavapai County community, I want to share an update on the negotiations between YRMC and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ). 

    For many months, YRMC has been negotiating with BCBSAZ in an effort to protect access to health care services for thousands of patients. 

    As a not-for-profit health care organization, we rely on reimbursement from health plans to sustain essential medical care and community benefits. Unfortunately, BCBSAZ has been unwilling to agree to a new contract that would put patients and our community first. 

    We are disappointed that our efforts to engage in constructive, collaborative and transparent conversations with BCBSAZ to reach a fair and timely agreement have not been reciprocated. Our most recent offer made significant concessions and was well below our own inflation. BCBSAZ rejected it without even making a counter proposal. At this point, they don’t seem committed to reaching an agreement.

    As a result, YRMC and BCBSAZ have not been able to come to a mutual agreement. Beginning February 8 at 5 p.m., YRMC is no longer considered part of the BCBSAZ network. Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG) outpatient clinic services will remain in-network for patients who are members of BCBSAZ.

    We know how important this is to our community. We committed to working around the clock to reach an agreement. Unfortunately, BCBSAZ has not shown that same urgency or commitment, or a willingness to compromise. As a result, costs will now be shifted by BCBSAZ to patients in the form of out-of-pocket costs and deductibles. Our patients and community deserve better.

    Like many hospitals, our local hospital faces extreme financial challenges that are putting our services at risk. Because BCBSAZ was unwilling to come to an agreement, we are now facing a significant impact to the health of our community. In fact, this may:

    • threaten our ability to continue providing essential care to patients in the coming years
    • compromise our efforts to recruit and retain the nurses and doctors that care for our patients each day
    • force Yavapai County residents to travel great distances to receive some forms of medical care
    • limit our ability to expand community services, especially for those who are vulnerable

    BCBSAZ recently attempted to publicly downplay the impact a contract termination would have on the community. At YRMC, we believe every patient matters and every patient should be financially protected by their health insurance plan. We do not underestimate our responsibility as the region’s high-quality health care provider and we believe in keeping care local.

    YRMC has been providing health care in our community for nearly 80 years, and our patients are at the center of everything we do. This and the extraordinary close-knit community of Yavapai County are what drew me to move here in 2006. Since that time, I have made a commitment to be a faithful neighbor and doctor, putting our patients first. 

    As a medical provider and a resident of this great community, I am extremely concerned about BCBSAZ’s lack of interest to collaborate so that we could come to a reasonable agreement for the sake of our patients. 

    I recognize the inconvenience and stress this negotiation has caused for our patients with BCBSAZ coverage. Please know that it is our intent to continue our conversations with BCBSAZ and reach an agreement to make sure the health care services available in our community can continue for years to come. 

    Have questions? Take action now.
    Patients should contact BCBSAZ or its affiliated health plan directly by using the phone number listed on the back of their insurance card with any questions related to their specific coverage or regarding continuity of care. Patients can also call 702-616-5789. 


    What does this mean for me and my family?
    Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m., YRMC is no longer considered part of the BCBSAZ network. However:

    • YRMC will continue to treat all patients in need of emergency care through our hospitals’ emergency departments at in-network rates, regardless of network status. 
    • Patients who are in active treatment or are scheduled for a test or procedure may be eligible to continue receiving care on an in-network basis and should call the BCBSAZ Customer Care number on the back of their BCBSAZ member ID card to request approval for continuity of care.
    • Yavapai Regional Medical Group’s (YRMG) outpatient clinic services will remain in-network for patients with BCBSAZ.

    Other important information:

  • Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona extend deadline to continue working toward agreement

    by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Feb 06, 2023
    Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
    (BCBSAZ) have extended their negotiation deadline another 24 hours as the organizations work
    toward reaching a fair and responsible agreement.
    The negotiation period has been extended through Tuesday, Feb. 7. BCBSAZ-insured patients
    will maintain their in-network access to YRMC services through the extension date.

    As we have stated throughout, we do not underestimate our responsibility as the region’s high-
    quality health care provider. We recognize and do not take lightly the inconvenience this

    negotiation has caused for our patients with coverage from BCBSAZ.
    Responsible agreements with health insurance companies are essential to providing high
    quality health care to our community. We will continue to work around the clock and continue
    our conversations with BCBSAZ in hopes of reaching an agreement that is in the best interest of
    our patients.

  • Negotiations Extended through Monday, Feb. 6 Dignity Health’s Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Continue Work to Complete Agreement

    by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Feb 03, 2023

    In an effort to ensure a fair and responsible contract agreement that benefits the Yavapai County community, Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) and Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG), and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) have agreed to further extend their negotiation period through Monday, Feb. 6. BCBSAZ-insured patients will maintain their in-network access to YRMC and YRMG services, facilities, and providers through the extension date. 

    We want to make clear our commitment to our patients in Yavapai County. We continue to work around the clock to reach an agreement that will enable us to put patients first and continue providing essential medical services to the community. 

    We greatly appreciate the public’s patience as we work through these negotiations.

  • Negotiations Extended for 48 Hours: Dignity Health’s Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Yavapai Regional Medical Group Work to Complete Agreement with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

    by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Feb 01, 2023

    Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) and Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG), and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) have jointly agreed to extend the negotiation period through February 2, 2023. This will allow BCBSAZ-insured patients to maintain in-network access to YRMC and YRMG services, facilities, and providers through February 2, 2023.

    “It’s our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate and reliable health care services to our community,” says Anthony Torres, MD, President and CEO of Dignity Health YRMC and YRMG.

    “We understand the magnitude of this responsibility and remain hopeful that we will reach a resolution with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona that benefits those we serve right here in our community.”

    “We know how important Yavapai Regional Medical Center is to our members and want a resolution so members can focus on what is important – their health and the health of their families,” says Pam Kehaly, President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. “Today’s conversations have brought us closer together and we remain hopeful that members can maintain both affordability and access to care.”

  • New CEO, Wright L. Lassiter III, Begins at CommonSpirit

    by Community Outreach and Philanthropy, (928) 771-5686 | Aug 01, 2022

    CommonSpirit Health announced today that Wright L. Lassiter III has started in his role as the organization’s next CEO, succeeding Lloyd H. Dean, who retired.

    “I’m honored to lead this organization, which is a driving force for access to high-quality, essential health services for all,” said Lassiter. “Among my priorities is supporting the health and well-being of CommonSpirit’s nurses, physicians, and staff, who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our patients and the CommonSpirit mission through one of the most difficult periods in modern history.”

    Lassiter brings 30 years of experience working in large health systems, most recently at Henry Ford Health in Michigan. As CEO since 2016, Lassiter led Henry Ford through the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly expanding its footprint and growing revenue. He also earned recognition for the system’s focus on employee well-being and a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice.

    Known as a strong voice for improving healthcare and a champion for health equity, Lassiter is the current Chair of the American Hospital Association Board of Trustees.

    “Wright’s experience and success with complex health systems positions him well to lead our organization,” said Chris Lowney, vice chair, CommonSpirit Board of Stewardship Trustees. “His career focus embodies CommonSpirit’s vision of health care as an essential aspect of every person’s life.”

    About Wright L. Lassiter III

    Lassiter has a proven track record of success with nonprofit, public, and faith-based health organizations. As CEO of Henry Ford, Lassiter led the system through a comprehensive strategic planning effort, completed two successful mergers that expanded the system’s geographic footprint and grew revenues, and implemented a recent rebranding.

    Prior to joining Henry Ford, Lassiter was CEO of Alameda Health System in Oakland, CA, where he was credited with leading the public health system’s expansion. As chair of the American Hospital Association Board of Trustees, he plays a key role in advancing the priorities of hospitals across the country. In addition, he is a past chair of America’s Essential Hospitals.

    Originally from Tuskegee, AL, Lassiter received his master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Indiana University. Lassiter completed his bachelor’s degree with honors in Chemistry from Le Moyne, a Jesuit college in upstate New York.

    About CommonSpirit Health

    CommonSpirit Health is a nonprofit, Catholic health system dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 by Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health. With  its national office in Chicago and a team of over 150,000 employees and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, CommonSpirit operates 140 hospitals and more than 1,500 care sites across 21 states. In FY 2021, CommonSpirit had revenues of $33.3 billion and provided $5.1 billion in charity care, community benefit, and unreimbursed government programs. Learn more at www.commonspirit.org.

     

     

  • YRMC Foundation Announces 2022-2023 Board Officers and New Directors

    by Community Outreach and Philanthropy, (928) 771-5686 | Jul 28, 2022

    The Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) Foundation Board of Directors has announced its slate of elected officers for July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023 and new directors who have recently joined the board.  The officers include Kevin Keighron resuming his prior role as Chair; Pierre Tibi, MD, continuing as Vice Chair, and Bill Sonsin, continuing as Secretary and Treasurer.  

    Dave Barrett, owner of Barrett Propane, has now earned Emeritus status on the board, having served since 2013 and as Chair since 2018.  His longtime support of the Foundation includes extensive fundraising for the Breast Care Center at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center and sponsorships of numerous community fundraising events.  The YRMC Foundation greatly values Mr. Barrett’s expert leadership and many devoted years of service.

    Mr. Keighron was Chief Operations Officer for YRMC for many years prior to serving on the YRMC Foundation board from 2005-2014.  He held various positions including Chair, and rejoined the board in February 2022.  Dr. Tibi, a leading cardiovascular surgeon who was instrumental in the establishment of the James Family Heart Center at YRMC, has served as a board director since 2020 and as Vice Chair since 2021.  His longtime support of the Foundation has included sponsorship of the Crawfest events to benefit YRMC programs and helping to launch the forthcoming Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Cardiac program.  Mr. Sonsin, a retired financial advisor for American Express Financial Advisors (now Ameriprise), has served as a board director since 2017, as board Secretary since 2018, and as Secretary and Treasurer since 2021.  He is a dedicated supporter of various YRMC programs.

    New directors joining the YRMC Foundation in 2022 are Paul Braithwaite, DO, of Prescott Anesthesiology and the YRMC medical staff; Chad Burge, Director of Full Service for Desert De Oro Foods; Leigh Ann Frankel, YRMC nurse and President of a private foundation; and Kevin Schleeter, Vice President and Commercial Banker with National Bank of Arizona.

    The expertise and talents of our YRMC Foundation board members span backgrounds in healthcare, business, finance, law, communications, and more. These directors represent our community and business leaders, medical staff, and hospital leadership.

    The YRMC Foundation is committed to supporting the healthcare mission of Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center through fundraising and relationship building. The Foundation solicits philanthropic gifts, provides stewardship of these gifts, and grants funding to the hospital to advance the community's access to quality healthcare close to home. All charitable gifts received by the Foundation stay in our community and are utilized as directed by the donor. Donors may designate their gifts to any of the Foundation’s 16 special purpose funds. 

    To learn more about programs supported by the YRMC Foundation or to speak with a staff member, please contact (928) 771–5686 or [email protected], or visit www.yrmcfoundation.org. 

  • Longtime Local Medical Imaging Centers Unveil New Name

    by Community Outreach and Philanthropy, (928) 771-5686 | Jul 28, 2022

    Prescott Medical Imaging (PMI) and Prescott Valley Medical Imaging (PVMI) recently introduced new names as part of Yavapai Regional Medical Center’s (YRMC) affiliation with Dignity Health. The outpatient imaging facilities are now:

    • Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott
    • Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott Valley

    “This change is part of the rebranding rollout plan launched in conjunction with the YRMC– Dignity Health affiliation,” says Ken Boush, Director of Marketing and Communications at Dignity Health, YRMC. “Patients and community members will soon see new signage at both imaging centers. We want them to be aware that the name change is related to YRMC’s network-wide rebrand. It will not affect the care or services at the Dignity Health Imaging Center in Prescott or Prescott Valley.”

    For example, experienced, local radiologists will continue to interpret imaging studies and procedures performed at both locations, according to Mary Sterling, Imaging Services Director at Dignity Health, YRMC.

    “Our locally based radiology team has always differentiated us from other imaging centers, many of which use radiologists based in markets outside of Yavapai County to interpret imaging studies,” says Sterling. “At our Imaging Centers in Prescott and Prescott Valley, an imaging study performed in our community is interpreted by radiologists who live and work in our community.”

    Sterling adds that Dignity Health Imaging Center radiologists have long-established, working relationships with physicians throughout the area. This collaboration, she says, is a benefit to both individual patients and overall quality of care.

    Dignity Health Imaging Center radiologists and radiologic imaging technologists also are:

    • Certified by the American College of Radiologists (ACR) and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)
    • Experts in advanced radiology modalities
    • Graduates of leading medical schools and radiologic technology programs

    Michael Locke, Operations Manager, Dignity Health Imaging Center, notes that the Imaging Centers have also earned ACR accreditation.

    “This means our Prescott and Prescott Valley facilities have undergone rigorous, objective evaluations by board-certified radiologists and medical physicists,” Locke explains.

    He also emphasizes that both facilities – along with the Breast Care Center at Dignity Health, YRMC – will continue to offer an all-inclusive menu of computer-enhanced, digital imaging services.

    YRMC’s Imaging Center facilities – both of which may be reached at (928) 771-7577 – are located at:

    • 810 Whipple Street, Prescott, Arizona 86301
    • 7700 East Florentine Road, Building B, Suite 105, Prescott Valley, Arizona 86314

    Visit DignityHealth.org/YRMC to learn more about services provided at both Dignity Health Imaging Center locations.

  • Anthony Torres, MD, to Serve as President and CEO of Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center

    by YRMC Community Outreach and Philanthropy, (928) 771-5686 | Jun 20, 2022

    Dignity Health has announced that Anthony Torres, MD, will serve as the next president and chief executive officer of Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). Dr. Torres has nearly 40 years of healthcare experience, and his leadership skills, medical expertise, and dedication to the community are an excellent fit for leading YRMC into the future.

    “Dr. Torres was selected for the role after an in-depth process that involved the Yavapai Regional Medical Center Board, executive leadership, and medical staff,” states Tim Bricker, Interim President, Dignity Health, Southwest Division. “His institutional knowledge, clinical experience, and strong reputation will be great assets in helping YRMC to grow services to meet the needs of an expanding population. Look for Dr. Torres to continue to build community and physician partnerships and continue important integration work with Dignity Health.”

    Dr. Torres has been a member of the YRMC team for 13 years, and has served as the hospital’s chief medical officer (CMO) since 2016. As CMO, Dr. Torres has provided leadership for the highly effective Medical Executive Committee. In addition, Dr. Torres has championed several quality programs to support patient care, and he has been instrumental in the ongoing development of the James Family Heart Center.

    Prior to becoming CMO, Dr. Torres was the medical director for Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG). In this role, he was a catalyst for growth across the organization and helped develop neurosurgical, palliative medicine, and behavioral health programs.

    Dr. Torres is an internal medicine physician by training, having completed his medical degree at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Mexico, followed by internship and residency training at the Hunter S.P.O.R.T.S. Medical Center at Fairview Heights, Illinois. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Northland Cares in Prescott.

    Dr. Torres will assume his new leadership duties on Monday, July 11. John Amos, who announced his retirement in March, will continue to provide advisory and transition support through Friday, September 30. 

  • John Amos, President and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center Announces Retirement

    by Community Outreach, (928) 771-5686 | Mar 22, 2022

    After 33 years of service to the healthcare industry, John Amos, President and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC), will retire on September 30, 2022.

    Amos began his career as an occupational therapist in Vero Beach, Florida in 1989 before moving to the Prescott area in 1993 to pursue a leadership opportunity with Therapeak Rehabilitation Services. Amos began his career at YRMC in 1999 and has served in several leadership roles during his tenure, including Director of Physical Rehabilitation Services, Chief Operating Officer for YRMC’s East Campus in Prescott Valley, and President and Chief Executive Officer – a role he assumed in 2013.

    Amos has been a member of the YRMC Executive Leadership Team for more than 18 years and has served as president for nine years. His vision and energy were instrumental in leading YRMC through the successful affiliation with Dignity Health in 2020.

    During his tenure with YRMC, Amos has guided the organization through tremendous growth, including the opening of YRMC East in Prescott Valley, expanding facilities and services at YRMC West in Prescott, and securing land for future development of a north campus. In addition, Amos led the rapid growth of Yavapai Regional Medical Group, a multispecialty group practice with 26 locations, and was instrumental in launching North Central Arizona Accountable Care.

    Aside from his administrative responsibilities, Amos serves on the Board for the Central Arizona Partnership (CAP), the Prescott Valley Economic Development Foundation (PVEDF), the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County, and Chair for the Board of the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association (AzHHA). Amos is also active with the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and serves on several business and community advisory committees.

    “My career in healthcare has been an amazing journey, and I am thankful for the friendships and opportunities I’ve developed through the years,” says Amos. “I’ve been blessed to lead and work with the talented healthcare family at YRMC and I will always value the accomplishments we achieved together to improve healthcare for our community. YRMC and the community are in good hands as I begin the next chapter of my life.”

    A search for Amos’ successor is underway.

     

  • Dignity Health, YRMC’s First Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery Launches A New Era in Orthopedic Surgery

    by Marketing-Communications, (928) 771-5738 | Jan 27, 2022

    To schedule an appointment: YRMG Orthopedic Surgery, (928) 708-4545

    The Quad Cities’ first robotic-arm assisted surgery took place at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) in Prescott, Arizona on January 26. The successful operation – a knee replacement – was performed by Jason Weisstein, MD, MPH, FACS, Orthopedic Surgeon at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG).

    “As the Quad Cities first robotic-arm assisted surgery, this is a medical milestone,” says Anthony Torres, MD, FACP, Chief Medical Officer, YRMC. “Going forward, we’re confident YRMC’s robotic-arm assisted surgery program will positively affect people from throughout northern Arizona who need partial or total knee replacement.”

    According to Dr. Torres, Dr. Weisstein has vast experience performing total and partial knee replacements using robotic-arm assisted technology. His background, combined with YRMC’s recently acquired Stryker Mako Robotic-Arm, are the key components of a state-of-the-art robotic surgery program.

    Robotic-arm assisted surgery allows specially trained orthopedic surgeons, like Dr. Weisstein, to create a 3-D, virtual model of the patient’s unique knee anatomy. During the procedure, the robotic arm guides the surgeon to the predefined area to prepare the bone for the implant. This results in a precise and better-aligned knee replacement.

    A Game-Changer for Patients

    What does the availability of robotic-arm assisted surgery mean for patients who need partial or total knee replacement?

    “It’s a game-changer in every aspect for knee replacement patients,” Dr. Weisstein says. “The accuracy and precision afforded by use of the robot is unparalleled leading to better component position and improved patient satisfaction. It’s a major step forward for orthopedic care in Yavapai County.”

    Robotic-arm assisted knee replacement has many other benefits, including:

    • Less soft tissue dissection
    • Ability to preserve healthy bone and soft tissue
    • Less post-operative pain
    • Faster functional recovery and shorter hospitalization

    Learn More

    For more information, or to schedule an appointment at YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery, speak to your primary care provider or contact the clinic at (928) 708-4545. YRMG, Orthopedic Surgery is located at:

    3195 Stillwater Drive, Suite D

    Prescott, Arizona 86305

    Outpatient Services Building West on the YRMC West Campus

    1001 Willow Creek Road, Suite 1300

    Prescott, Arizona 86301

    Del E. Webb Outpatient Center

    3262 North Windsong Drive, Suite B

    Prescott Valley, Arizona 86314

  • Yavapai Regional Medical Center to Open Visitation to COVID Units

    by Community Outreach, (928) 771-5686 | Jan 10, 2022

    Beginning Wednesday, January 12, Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center will allow limited in-person visitation for COVID-positive patients in isolation at its hospitals in Prescott and Prescott Valley. The new visitation guidelines will be monitored closely and may be revised based on future developments.

    “Allowing in-person visitation for patients in isolation provides peace-of-mind for our patients and their families while allowing for more effective communication with our staff.” states Ken Boush, Director of Marketing and Communications, Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center. “We are pleased to announce that limited face-to-face visitation is now an option for patients in COVID isolation.”

    • COVID unit visitation may take place between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm daily in non-critical care units. Visitation may take place between 3:00 pm and 4:00 pm daily in critical care units.
    • One designated family member may visit daily.
    • Every visitor will be required to sign a visitation agreement and watch a short educational video to properly apply (DON) and remove (DOFF) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
    • All visitors will enter through the main entrance of the hospital where they will be screened and given a mask to wear while inside the hospital.
    • Following the screening, all visitors will check-in at the reception desk where they will be escorted to a room to watch the educational video and sign the visitation agreement. Visitors may then proceed to the unit, check in at the Nurses Station, DON their PPE and proceed with their visit.

    “Although there are limitations on the number and type of visitors to our hospitals, we understand that communicating with loved ones and friends is an important part of a patient’s healing,” states Boush. “We continue to encourage patients to communicate electronically or by phone with loved ones and friends. Video chat, voice, and texting options are alternatives to help patients and loved ones feel connected.”

    For questions regarding visitation at YRMC, please call (928) 445-2700 or visit www.DignityHealth.org/YRMC.