"...the ideal hospital would combine the best of spas with the best of hotels and the best of hospitals to become a truly healing environment, where just being there is healing." Angelica Thieriot, Planetree Founder
Alliance Community Hospital joins some of the most progressive healthcare facilities as an affiliate of Planetree, an internationally-recognized, non-profit organization that advocates patient-centered care and integrates complementary therapies with today’s highly technical medical expertise to give patients the best possible healing environment.
Planetree founder Angelica Thieriot envisioned a new type of hospital, where patients could be active participants in their own care and experience support and healing on many levels.
Planetree has several core components. Here is a sampling of them and an explanation of how Alliance Community Hospital is putting each one into practice.
Human Interactions
Alliance Community Hospital’s philosophy of patient care is treating patients as our guests. Whether it’s providing a complementary service or holding a patient’s hand, our dedicated caregivers reach out to each individual over the course of their stay at ACH.
Empowering Patients
Patient input is important at Alliance Community Hospital. Our patients are encouraged to ask questions about the direction of their care and also, to offer feedback.
The Importance of Family, Friends and Social Support Networks
The new Alliance Community Hospital is designed with family comfort areas for relaxation and open kitchen areas on each floor, where families can prepare a favorite meal for a patient. The hospital has a 24-hour visitation policy, and sleeper sofas are located in all patient rooms, which accommodate guests comfortably.
Spirituality: The Importance of Inner Resources
In addition to an on-site interdenominational chapel, the hospital offers a prayer partner program for patients who wish to have someone pray with them. A chaplain is also available at any time upon request.
The Importance of the Human Touch
Patients who are waiting to have a procedure or experiencing pain or discomfort can be put at ease with the "M" technique, a gentle massage performed by licensed practitioners at the hospital.
Healing Arts: Nutrition for the Soul
Alliance Community Hospital offers a variety of speakers, support groups, classes and events to raise health awareness in the community.
Architectural and Interior Design that is Conducive to Health and Healing
Following the Planetree model of care, the new Alliance Community Hospital offers private rooms with hotel-like amenities, computer access and hookup, cable television and a private bathroom. Hallways are carpeted to reduce noise.
The Importance of Both the Nutritional and Nurturing Aspects of Food
The Nutritional Services Department offers a "room service" option, allowing patients to order food at any time - day or night. Patients can enjoy fresh-baked bread and cookies, prepared by volunteers, and the baking provides aromatherapy benefits as well.
Click the link below to find out how we're implementing Planetree at Alliance Community Hospital.