Direct Line with Steve Edwards for 3/29/2019

Bond rating reports released for CoxHealth

Fitch Ratings has reaffirmed CoxHealth’s A rating based on CoxHealth’s solid and improving financial position. Additionally, Moody’s Investors Service has reaffirmed CoxHealth’s A2 rating. The rating reflects CoxHealth’s historic trend of consistent profitability and expectation that the system will continue to benefit from favorable market position, revenue and growth.

Mental health awareness campaign at CoxHealth

CoxHealth’s March charity of the month was a spotlight on mental health awareness. Employees were reminded of their Employee Assistance Program benefit that provides free counseling sessions to employees and their family and other mental health resources in the community.

Annual CoxHealth Diaper Drive begins April 1

CoxHealth is inviting the community to participate in the 7th Annual CoxHealth Diaper Drive April 1-30. Both cloth and disposable diapers are accepted during the drive. Diapers will be given to Diaper Bank of the Ozarks in Springfield, Jesus Was Homeless in Branson and Monett Community Kitchen. The organizations will then distribute the diapers to local families in need.

Free skin cancer screening

CoxHealth’s annual skin cancer screening will be held May 18. The community can reserve a spot now. This event always fills up quickly.

CoxHealth donates flu vaccine to patients in Puerto Rico

CoxHealth has donated flu vaccine to a health clinic in Puerto Rico that was nearly destroyed by Hurricane Maria. Much of the vaccine will go to homebound members of the community.

CoxHealth employee recognized as a Missouri Hospital Hero

Missouri Health Matters has honored Pat Long, CoxHealth’s student volunteer and Medical Explorers coordinator, as a Hospital Hero. You can see her recognition video here.

Family thanks CoxHealth first responders who helped with special delivery

Members of CoxHealth EMS were reunited with a couple this week after assisting when the family was not able make it to the hospital for the birth of their baby. Last week, the couple had pulled over their vehicle and called 911. With the help of a CoxHealth dispatcher giving directions over the phone, the father delivered his baby girl. CoxHealth first responders arrived shortly after the delivery to assist.

Proud to work at CoxHealth

“I am an employee at CoxHealth and am proud to say that the care my husband received in the early hours of Saturday in the ED and CDU could not have been better. Every step of the way staff were smiling, not seeming rushed, asked me if I needed anything like coffee or water, and kept us informed … They were kind and caring as well. I'm proud to work for CoxHealth!”

Voice of the patient

“Just wanted you to know of my wonderful experience last night at urgent care for one of my sons. The nurse and NP were so kind and responsive, and most importantly, extremely engaging with my son!“

Thanks for reading,

Steve