Virginia Regional Medical Center Wins National Award For
Eliminating Toxic Mercury



June 5, 2008, Virginia, MN - Fact:  We have what it takes to prevent pollution and slow global warming.  Technology makes it possible to reduce our energy use and we can choose to support local farms and fair trade food.  We don't really have a choice anymore, we must make changes now to assure a safe and healthy future.

The health care industry is naturally concerned about all issues affecting health and is making sweeping changes to lighten its own impact on the envireonment.  One of the most important changes revolves around the use of safer substitutes for harmful chemicals and hazardous materials.  We;re proud to say that mercury is one of the casualties.

At the Practice Greenhealth Environmental Excellence Awards, held in Pittsburgh, Virginia Regional Medical Center (VRMC) was recognized for the changes they've made to eliminate the use of mercury in their facilities and was presented with the Making Medicine Mercury-Free Award.

"Winning an award is one of the unexpected perks of working in an industry filled with long hours and daily challenges," said Bob Jarboe, Executive Director of Practice Greenhealth.  "Until recently mercury was an integral part of health care operations.  Now the Making Medicine Mercury-FRee Award recognizes our determination to reduce the health and environmental impacts associated with the use of mercury in every health care facility.  Virginia Regional Medical Center is a deserving recipient of this important award."

The Practice Greenhealth Making Medicine Mercury-Free award recognizes facilities that have virtually eliminated mercury from their facilities and have demonstrated a commitment to continue to be mercury-free.  Award criteria include mercury-free management and purchasing policies, and recycling programs.

"Our involvement in mercury elimination began when it was identified as a threat to public health and the environment," said Nancy Barnes, lab manager and leader of VRMC's Green Team.  "Fortunately, our industry and manufacturers have responded to this issue, and it's getting easier to find safer, cost effective alternatives.  To minimize mercury's effect, VRMC has set standards that go beyone regulatory reductions.  It hasn't been an easy process, but we believe a healthier patient and staff environment is more than worth the effort."

Practice Greenhealth Environmental Excellence Awards recognize health care organizations and their partners for making significant contributions to protect and preserve the environment.  The Awards were held in conjunction with CleanMed 2008, a global conference for environmental leaders in health care.  140 organizations were honored for their work and commitment at this year's ceremonies.

For more information contact:

Kathleen Murray
218-749-9481

 

Pictured left to right are Jeff Samsa, Tanya Tveit, Nancy Barnes, Rich Weiss,
members of the Green Team with CEO Keith Harvey.