In 1994, Wayne Memorial joined with area school districts, local health care professionals, the Department of Health, the State Police and other local health organizations to create the Prevention Initiative, a community health project. The goal of the Initiative is to improve the health of the community through preventive, pro-active measures, such as educational efforts, community health fairs, awareness campaigns and screening programs.

One of the first programs undertaken by the Prevention Initiative Partnership was the Together for Health school program. Begun in 1995, the program has brought health and lifestyle information to thousands of 7th and 11th graders in Wayne, Pike and surrounding areas. The program has won several awards for innovation and accomplishment.

Through the school program, another Prevention Initiative project was conceived: The Together for Health Dental Clinic. Recognizing the connection between dental health and overall health as well as the need for dental services for uninsured and under-insured people in our area, Wayne Memorial established the Clinic in 1999 to provide dental care for children up to 21 years old.

In July 2000, the Pennsylvania Department of Health recognized the Prevention Initiative of Wayne Memorial Hospital as a partner in the State Health Improvement Plan (SHIP). Although nearly 100 community health projects exist in Pennsylvania, only 28 have been chosen as partners in SHIP.

As a SHIP partner, the Prevention Initiative was formalized under the guidance of the Community Advisory Board of Wayne Memorial Health System. This group of community leaders from Wayne and Pike counties assess the region on an ongoing basis and develops programs to fill community needs by utilizing or expanding local resources.

Priorities identified by the local partnership form the basis of new exciting efforts to be undertaken by our community. To provide input or for more information about Wayne Memorial’s community health improvement efforts, please call (570) 253-8990.