Connecting to Our Community
From providing critical health screenings to lending its expertise to the growing opioid crisis, Backus Hospital is connected to the healthcare needs of its community. And, Backus works to identify geographic, socioeconomic, and cultural barriers that might stand in the way of good health and then develops programs and initiatives to reach underserved populations.
Lending a Voice. Finding Solutions
The opioid crisis continues to grip America and the problem is even more acute in Eastern Connecticut. Amid the crisis, Backus continues to lend its expertise in helping to find solutions with experts participating in community forums across the region with law enforcement, social service agencies and education officials.
Backus has also partnered with the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services to provide on-the-spot intervention for overdose victims inside the emergency department.
Lifesaving Screenings
Early detection and education are critical in helping our community members stay healthy. In 2016, Backus continued to offer free health services in our community including screenings for prostate, colon, skin and head and neck cancer.
And, to help fight diabetes and heart disease—two of the biggest health concerns in Eastern Connecticut– Backus’ community outreach team continued to offer free blood pressure screenings and nutritional advice at local health fairs and farmers markets across Eastern Connecticut.
Free Advice from the Experts
With the help of experts from a talented medical staff, Backus continues to give patients the information they need to make the right decisions about their care. In 2016, Backus’ medical staff partnered with the hospital’s community outreach team to offer free community talks on issues such as sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, lupus, and psoriasis.