Dear Sonoma Valley Hospital Community,

January is a time to reset, celebrate achievements from the previous year, and embrace the possibilities ahead. In this Hospital Happenings newsletter, we’re thrilled to share exciting updates and plans for Sonoma Valley Hospital, along with tips for maintaining healthy habits all year long, focusing on small adjustments for a healthier January.

In 2023, we achieved a significant milestone, earning an “A” in Social Responsibility from
the Lown Institute, securing SVH as #1 in Northern California and 14th nationally. This recognition highlights our unwavering commitment to serving our community with excellence. The Lown Institute Hospitals Index evaluates hospitals based on what truly matters to their communities, setting a higher standard for health outcomes, value, and equity.

Last year, we welcomed a dedicated Sonoma-based Emergency Physicians Group, a crucial step in enhancing our ER services to better serve our community. Our top priority remains providing exceptional service to all, with a special focus on geriatrics. Our ER is now staffed by ER boarded physicians who call Sonoma home. They are not just serving the community; they are an integral part of it, deeply invested in its well-being.

We also proudly joined a global initiative to improve healthcare for older adults, aligning with our mission to expand and enhance Age-Friendly care. As part of the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative, we implemented evidence-based interventions to enhance care for our older patients.

Looking ahead to 2024, we are eagerly anticipating our state-of-the-art 3Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine which will be operational in February, enhancing our diagnostic services at the hospital.

In addition, we are expanding our essential Physical Therapy (PT) services to meet the pressing needs of our community. We are equally thrilled to celebrate the 10th anniversary of our new hospital wing – encompassing the Emergency Department and our advanced Surgery Unit – a vital lifeline that has served our community tirelessly over the years.

We will continue to work diligently to address the unique needs of our community hosting our Active Aging series at Vintage House February 9, 16, and 23 focusing on healthy aging for body, mind, and spirit.

Update on our negotiations with Anthem Blue Cross: Anthem’s contract with Sonoma Valley Hospital remains in effect, now until March 1st, as both parties agreed to a 30-day extension due to time lost brought on by the holiday season. We hope for meaningful progress in January as the negotiations continue. Emergency services at the hospital are always available and ‘in-network’. Learn more here.

Thank you for entrusting us with your health. Here’s to a healthy and prosperous 2024 for all of us.

Warm regards,

John Hennelly
CEO, Sonoma Valley Hospital

Small Adjustments for a Healthier January

Rather than attempting a complete overhaul of your lifestyle in January, consider making these small adjustments to retweak your habits:

1) Hydration: Start your day with a glass of water to kickstart your metabolism and stay hydrated throughout the day. Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal tea.

2) Move More: Incorporate short bursts of physical activity into your day, even if it’s just a 10-minute walk during your lunch break. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.

3) Mindful Eating: Pay attention to your eating habits. Practice mindful eating by savoring each bite and listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.

4) Sleep Routine: Prioritize a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and avoiding screens before bed.

5) Set Realistic Goals: Instead of setting vague or unattainable resolutions, focus on specific, achievable goals that are meaningful to you. Break them down into smaller steps and celebrate your progress along the way.

6) Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a healthcare professional for support and accountability. Having a support system can make it easier to stick to your healthy habits.

Remember, creating a healthier lifestyle is a marathon, not a sprint. Small changes made consistently can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. By focusing on what you can do in January to retweak your habits, you’ll set yourself up for a year filled with progress and positive changes. Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more vibrant you in 2024!

Of Interest

New MRI for Enhanced Diagnostics
Our state-of-the-art MRI machine will be operational in February, providing precise diagnostic capabilities for better patient care. We’re excited to offer this advanced technology to our community.

Expanding Physical Therapy Services
Sonoma Valley Hospital has launched a significant project to expand our Physical Therapy (PT) program and facilities. This expansion will provide PT services that address the unique needs of our community, while ensuring we have the space to welcome and assist more individuals.

Celebrating a Decade of Care Excellence
Join us in celebrating the 10-year anniversary of our new hospital wing – encompassing the Emergency Department and our advanced Surgery Unit – at Sonoma Valley Hospital throughout 2024. Over the past decade, our services been a crucial lifeline for our community, providing rapid and reliable care when it matters most. We look forward to continuing to serve you with unwavering dedication in the years to come.

Navigating the Post-Holiday Blues: Managing Your Emotional Well-being

The post-holiday period often stirs up a mix of emotions, from nostalgia to stress. Prioritizing your mental well-being during this time is crucial. Take moments for self-reflection, confide in trusted friends or professionals if needed, and establish a daily routine that brings stability and joy. Embrace mindfulness and physical activity to reduce stress, and be mindful of screen time’s impact on your well-being. Remember, post-holiday blues are common, and with self-care and support, you can navigate them successfully, emerging even stronger.