Join Ritchie Regional Health Center and Westbrook Health Services for a day dedicated to harm reduction education and supply distribution.

The event will be held at RRHC Harrisville Campus. For questions 304-873-1401 ext. 207 or 304-643-2996 (ask for Hannah Wells).

​Starting in 2021, the Human Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awards the Community Health Quality Recognition (CHQR) badges, recognizing Health Center Program awardees and look-alikes who have made notable achievements in the areas of access, quality, health equity, health information technology, social risk factors screening, and COVID-19 public health emergency response using Uniform Data System (UDS) data from the most recent reporting period. 

Ritchie Regional Health Center was once again recognized for being a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) which is a model of care that puts patients at the forefront of care. PCMHs improve quality and the patient experience and increase staff satisfaction—while reducing health care costs. Practices that earn recognition have committed to continuous quality improvement and a patient-centered approach to care.
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In addition to being acknowledged as a PCMH, Ritchie Regional was also awarded the Advancing Health Information Technology (HIT) for Quality badge. The badge recognizes health centers that meet all criteria to optimize HIT services: Adopted an electronic health record (EHR) system; offer telehealth services; exchange clinical information electronically with key providers in healthcare settings; engage patients through health IT; and collect data on patient social risk factors. Embracing HIT services has allowed Ritchie Regional to provide safer care and faster diagnoses, and empower their patients by giving them access to their medical records online, schedule appointments, and connect with doctors through secure platforms.

Ritchie Regional was beyond proud to receive both badges and would like to thank HRSA as well as the communities they serve.  

As we head into the colder months, we at Ritchie Regional Health Center want to remind you of the importance of protecting your health against both influenza (flu) and COVID-19. While we're all familiar with COVID-19 by now, the flu remains a serious health threat, especially for individuals at high risk like seniors, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions.

Why Get Vaccinated?

• Protection: Both flu and COVID-19 vaccines offer significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to keep yourself and those around you healthy.
• Reduced symptoms: Even if you do get sick after vaccination, your symptoms are likely to be milder and shorter-lived. This can mean less suffering and a faster recovery.
• Community immunity: When a large portion of the population is vaccinated, it creates "herd immunity," which protects those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons or age. This is especially important for vulnerable individuals in our community.

Flu and COVID-19 Vaccines: What You Need to Know

• Both vaccines are safe and effective. Millions of people have safely received these vaccines, and they have undergone rigorous testing.
• You can get both vaccines at the same time! It's convenient and safe to receive both injections during the same visit.
• Most insurance plans cover the cost of both vaccines. Check with your insurance provider for details.

Taking Action:
We encourage you to schedule an appointment for your flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible. You can do this easily by:

• Calling or texting us at 304-643-4005
• Contacting an RRHC campus near you
• Asking your healthcare provider during your next appointment

Additional Resources:

• For more information about flu vaccines, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/flu/index.html
• For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

By getting vaccinated, you're not just protecting yourself, you're playing a vital role in keeping our community healthy and strong. Let's make this year one of wellness and protection.

P.S. We understand you may have questions or concerns about the vaccines. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're happy to provide you with accurate and reliable information.

January ushers in a crisp new year, but it also holds a vital message for women's health: Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. This month is a potent call to action for education, prevention, and early detection.

Cervical cancer, once a leading cause of female mortality, can be largely prevented thanks to two powerful tools: HPV vaccination and regular screening tests. Yet, disparities in access and knowledge remain, leaving many women vulnerable.

Taking the Reins:

• Embrace the HPV Vaccine: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary culprit behind cervical cancer. Thankfully, we have highly effective vaccines that can shield against the most cancer-causing strains. Encourage young girls and boys to get vaccinated according to recommended schedules.

• Know Your Screening Options: Regular Pap tests and HPV tests detect precancerous changes, allowing for early intervention before they develop into cancer. Understand your risk factors and discuss appropriate screening methods with your healthcare provider.

• Break the Silence: Open communication is crucial. Talk to your loved ones about cervical cancer, dispel myths and misconceptions, and empower them to prioritize their health.

• Seek Support and Resources: You're not alone on this journey. Numerous organizations including RRHC offer valuable resources, including educational materials, screening assistance, and emotional support. RRHC also offers the Breast & Cervical Cancer Screening Program which helps uninsured or underinsured WV women gain access to breast and cervical cancer screening services.  

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is a springboard, not a finish line. Let's carry the momentum through the year by advocating for equitable access to vaccines and screenings, supporting research initiatives, and fostering open conversations. Remember, knowledge is power – the power to save lives.

Together, let's shine a light on cervical cancer, dismantle barriers, and empower every woman to take charge of her health. This January, and every month, let's strive towards a future where cervical cancer becomes a preventable disease, not a devastating reality.

Remember, even small actions can make a big difference. Let's join hands and turn teal and white into symbols of hope and resilience, a beacon guiding us towards a future free from cervical cancer.

Don't miss Cover WV Day next Tuesday, January 9, 2024! The West Virginia Primary Care Association, WV Navigator, and Community Health Centers across the state will be working together to assist you in receiving coverage from the Marketplace, Medicaid, or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Check out the flier and locations listed in the attached images and be sure to check out the additional resources below as well!
WV Navigator Cover WV Day website: https://buff.ly/3vjHdIv
WVPCA Cover WV Day website page: https://buff.ly/3TLFIN7
WV Navigator Cover WV Day video: https://buff.ly/4aJeD38

​RRHC is proud to offer assistance in Ritchie County and Doddridge County!

Ritchie County:
RRHC Harrisville Campus
135 S. Penn Ave.
Harrisville, WV

Doddridge County:
RRHC West Union Campus
190 Marie St.
West Union, WV

#coverwvday #HealthCoverageForAll #RRHC