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Southwest VA Residents Could See Improvements in Health Services

The Kingsport Times-News recently reported about efforts to improve the health of residents in Southwest Virginia. As of now, individuals who live in Southwest Virginia have a premature mortality rate that is 26 percent higher than the state average, in addition, to having higher rates of obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Adapting health services to better suit area residents can result in a great improvement in their quality of life, and also make the area more attractive to businesses and new residents, which will improve property values.

"The Southwest Virginia Health Authority has unveiled a plan to improve the region’s health care network and access to health care that includes a push to establish a medical specialist training facility in the region and permitting an expanded role for dental hygienists.

The Blueprint for Health Improvement and Health-Enabled Prosperity is the first strategic plan developed to address health disparities residents of Southwest Virginia face, said Delegate Bud Phillips, D-Clintwood.

Phillips is chairman of the authority, which was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 2006.

Residents of Southwest Virginia have a premature mortality rate that is 26 percent higher than the state average and have higher rates of obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The “blueprint” identifies those issues and needs and sets short-term, intermediate and long-term goals and objectives to address those needs, Phillips said.

'We believe the authority’s approach is a model for the nation to follow because it was developed by the people who know health care and what Southwest Virginia’s needs are,' he said. 'By improving health care, we improve the quality of life in Southwest Virginia.'

Some of the blueprint goals include allowing dental hygienists to provide preventive care. Another goal — establishing a dental school/clinic in Wise County — is under way. The plan also proposes as an immediate goal establishing a Medical Specialist Training Center in the region so residents won’t have to travel long distances to see health care specialists.

Read full story.

Posted on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 - 3:03pm

Carroll Co. Gets Money for Water & Wastewater Systems

WSLS 10 out of Roanoke reported about a recent announcement from Congressman Rick Boucher that brings some good news to Carroll and Grayson counties and the city of Galax.

Carroll county is the receipent of more than $2.8 million for water and wastewater systems. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy has provided economic recovery funds in the amount of $620,487 to Rooftop of Virginia to help families reduce energy costs in Carroll and Grayson Counties and the City of Galax through their weatherization assistance program.

"Two new projects will help put the economic stimulus to work locally.This afternoon, dozens gathered in Carroll County to hear Congressman Rick Boucher’s big announcement.The county will receive more than $2.8 million for water and wastewater systems projects.They’ll help bring clean water to 350 homes and businesses.

'We’re seeing commitments already to create as many as 90 jobs from one employer alone when we build a new water and wastewater system combination at Exit 1 on Interstate-77 and we’re bringing the funding here today in order to do that,' said Boucher."

Read full story, including a news release from Congressman Rick Boucher’s office.

Posted on Thursday, July 30, 2009 - 5:27pm

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Posted on Monday, June 15, 2009 - 12:00am