advertisement

AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center GlenOaks Hosts Event for Local Police Departments

In the spirit of strengthening community bonds and honoring the partnership that has been formed with these men and women over the years, AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center GlenOaks invited law enforcement representatives from five surrounding communities to a gourmet luncheon/dinner held recently.

A large tent was erected in the medical center's parking lot to accommodate the over 120 police officers who participated in the event. They were joined by members of the hospital medical staff and AMITA corporate who expressed their personal thanks to the officers for their service and support.

"There are very few days when I come into the hospital where I don't notice a patrol car that has just brought in someone who has been hurt or needs immediate medical attention," said Bruce C. Christian, president and CEO of AMITA Health GlenOaks. "In some cases, these patients can become disruptive as a result of alcohol, drugs or behavioral health issues. Our officers are putting their lives on the line every day to help these people. I set up this event in gratitude for what our officers do for each and every one of us and plan to continue to hold it every year."

"On an almost daily basis, the law enforcement community and staff at AMITA GlenOaks Hospital work together to assist citizens in their time of need," said Chief Douglas Flint of the Village of Glendale Heights Police Department. "The officers of the Glendale Heights, Addison, Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, and Glen Ellyn Police Departments would like to thank Bruce Christian for sponsoring the luncheon and continuing to work on bridging the relationships between the law enforcement community, the hospital staff and the citizens we all serve."

Just one week earlier, a private roundtable with these same police officials - as well as local fire chiefs, hospital leadership and medical staff - had been conducted by the hospital to consider the best ways to deal with the growing heroin and opioid epidemic.

Discussion of these concerns continued as staff members joined police personnel at the luncheon to thank them for their efforts. "It was interesting to learn, from a hospital perspective, the effects of heroin on their personnel and staffing level during peak times," said Chief Edward Sailer of the Carol Stream Police Department. "Also, the high percentage of patients who refuse to be treated for their heroin addiction after being medically cleared."

There is growing mutual respect for the challenges both hospital and law enforcement organizations are facing every day. "It is refreshing to hear Bruce and others recognize the importance of a good working relationship between all of us," said Chief Frank Giammarese of the Bloomingdale Police Department. "Public service is a difficult job no matter where you live and work. We value the relationship we have with AMITA GlenOaks as our nearest medical provider."

"There was such an overwhelming feel of support from all involved in this event," said Deputy Chief Brian Goss of the Addison Police Department. "The Addison Police Department knows that AMITA GlenOaks Hospital will be a community partner for life."

About AMITA Health

AMITA Health (AMITAhealth.org) is an integrated health system serving communities in western and northwestern suburban Chicago. AMITA Health is a Joint Operating Company formed in February 2015 by Adventist Midwest Health, based in Hinsdale, Ill., and Alexian Brothers Health System, based in Arlington Heights, Ill., encompassing nine hospitals and an extensive physician provider network of more than 3,000 physicians. AMITA Health is committed to delivering the most efficient, highest quality, faith-based care possible and respecting the faith traditions of all people.

Media Contacts:

For AMITA Health:

Matt Wakely, Senior VP, Chief Communications Officer, 847.385.7176, matt.wakely@alexian.net

Julie Busch, Associate Vice President, Communications, 630.856.2353, julie.busch@ahss.org

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.