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Lynda VincentWith a goal of increasing patient satisfaction, Delta County Memorial Hospital took a proactive step recently to add a new patient advocate position, filled by Lynda Vincent the end of October 2012.Vincent brings 25 years of professional customer service experience to the patient advocate position.

She has been associated with the hospital since 2009 and a resident of the Western Slope for the past 18 years.

Vincent works with patients and their family members to assure they are satisfied with the services provided by the hospital whether the patient is an in-patient, has received care from the emergency department, or any of the clinics associated with Delta County Memorial Hospital. She speaks on behalf of patients to department managers or administration at the hospital.

She queries patients about their experience with the hospital, the level of care received, cleanliness, quiet surroundings, and the quality of food. If for example, a patient feels that they had received inadequate care, she serves as an intermediary between the patient and unit managers or administration to address concerns, improve communication, resolve difficulties, and improve the quality of care provided in the future.

Vincent may serve as a guide for patients who come to the hospital and need direction if they do not know where to go, or she may be called upon to de-escalate situations between a patient and clinical personnel. She provides compassionate listening and attention to patients who may not feel comfortable sharing their comments directly to a nurse or physician about questions and concerns regarding their care.

An open house to meet the patient advocate is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 6, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Delta County Memorial Hospital. As guests enter the front lobby, there will be signs to direct them to the get-acquainted event. To request patient advocate services from Lynda Vincent, or to schedule an appointment, patients or family members may call 874-6436.

"Delta County Memorial Hospital continuously works to improve patient satisfaction and the quality of the services it provides. The new patient position is a value-added benefit for patients that we hope they will take advantage of," said Jason Cleckler, acting chief executive officer/chief clinical officer.

Delta County Memorial Hospital is a non-profit, 49 bed district hospital serving Delta County families for the past 89 years.

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