A Woman’s Place Receives Duke Endowment Fund

08/03/2007

Marion, SC— A Woman’s Place, the virtual women’s center of Marion Regional Healthcare System was recently awarded a 3- year grant from the Duke Endowment to fund community education programs specific to the needs of women. A Woman’s Place was established in October of 2006 by a team comprised of several clinical departments and medical staff of Marion County Medical Center.  The goal of the center is to “create a virtual atmosphere of care, competency, quality and service respecting the dignity, privacy and the diverse needs of women.”     Funds received from the Duke Endowment will be used to address breast health and to improve the health of mothers and babies in Marion County, two top initiatives of A Woman’s Place.  The priorities to be addressed throughout the next 3 years include: •    Increasing the number of women who obtain screening Mammographies in effort to decrease improve the successful treatment of breast cancer •    Increasing the number of women who obtain early pre-natal care, thus improving the safety of the delivery and the potential for a healthier baby •    Developing a comprehensive incontinence program specifically designed to meet the physical and emotional needs of women who are impacted by incontinency •    Increasing the number of women over 40 who receive colorectal exams in an effort to decrease the rate of colon cancer •    Increasing awareness among mothers to the benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and newborns •    Improving the cardiac health of all women •    Increasing the number of women who seek bone density exams to offset the debilitating effects of osteoporosis at an earlier age A Registered Nurse will coordinate the program and other clinical staff will work to provide education and assist with resource management for women in this community. In partnership with Duke Endowment, Marion County Medical Center anticipates A Woman’s Place will be fully operational by October 2007. According to Vice President of Public Relations and Patient Services, Elista Smith, “Marion Regional Health System continually searches for ways to enhance the quality of life for all of our constituents. A Woman’s Place at Marion County Medical Center is committed to advancing the health and well being for all women and their families, by establishing an expansive program to improve the quality and safety of healthcare, improve access to healthcare, and expand prevention and early intervention.” A Woman’s Place is composed of The Breast Health Center, The Family Birthing Center, Community Education, Wellness, Osteoporosis Prevention Program, Colon Health program and the evolving Incontinence Program.    Through support of community partners, A Woman’s Place has grown into a dynamic virtual network dedicated to improving the health and the lives of women of all ages. For more information or to request a speaker from A Woman’s Place, please contact the Education department by calling 843-431-2080.