LRGHealthcare Provided $35 Million in Community Benefit Report Says
LACONIA — LRGHealthcare recently released its annual Community Benefit Report, highlighting expenditures targeted specifically for the community at large. In fiscal year 2012, LRGHealthcare provided more than $35 million in community benefit to the Lakes and Three Rivers Regions.
The report details activities and projects that support the hospital's core mission of strengthening the community's well-being. To report its community benefits, not-for-profit, charitable trust LRGHealthcare uses both state and federal guidelines developed to capture and report community benefit expenses.
When compared to the state of New Hampshire overall, LRGHealthcare service areas have a higher proportion of individuals with household incomes at 200% of poverty or less. The region also has a higher proportion of individuals with Medicaid and Medicare coverage than the state average. The higher percentage of Medicare coverage is related to the higher proportion of elderly in the regions served compared with the state.
In community surveys and focus groups, Access to Care was the top health concern voiced by residents.
Using data collected, combined with the economic statistics of the region, LRGHealthcare responded by providing subsidy to programs and services, thus ensuring access to care. Combined with the $4 .5 million in charity care LRGHealthcare provided, it totals over $20 million as contribution to access to care.
"Helping people access appropriate health care resources and education to preserve or improve their health is critical to our mission," states Director of Education Services Sally Minkow. "We are committed to continuing our efforts to invest in the health and safety of our community."
Two categories that are financially significant but not considered reportable as a community benefit are unreimbursed care for Medicare and bad debt. In FY'12, LRGHealthcare had $15,638,800 in unreimbursed costs for care of Medicare patients, and $2,958,262 in uncollectable debt.
Through the Patient Advantage Program, LRGHealthcare leveled the playing field by giving all patients at least a median discount. Through the program, LRGHealthcare provided at cost, community benefit in the amount of $3,069,263.
The report details activities and projects that support the hospital's core mission of strengthening the community's well-being. To report its community benefits, not-for-profit, charitable trust LRGHealthcare uses both state and federal guidelines developed to capture and report community benefit expenses.
When compared to the state of New Hampshire overall, LRGHealthcare service areas have a higher proportion of individuals with household incomes at 200% of poverty or less. The region also has a higher proportion of individuals with Medicaid and Medicare coverage than the state average. The higher percentage of Medicare coverage is related to the higher proportion of elderly in the regions served compared with the state.
In community surveys and focus groups, Access to Care was the top health concern voiced by residents.
Using data collected, combined with the economic statistics of the region, LRGHealthcare responded by providing subsidy to programs and services, thus ensuring access to care. Combined with the $4 .5 million in charity care LRGHealthcare provided, it totals over $20 million as contribution to access to care.
"Helping people access appropriate health care resources and education to preserve or improve their health is critical to our mission," states Director of Education Services Sally Minkow. "We are committed to continuing our efforts to invest in the health and safety of our community."
Two categories that are financially significant but not considered reportable as a community benefit are unreimbursed care for Medicare and bad debt. In FY'12, LRGHealthcare had $15,638,800 in unreimbursed costs for care of Medicare patients, and $2,958,262 in uncollectable debt.
Through the Patient Advantage Program, LRGHealthcare leveled the playing field by giving all patients at least a median discount. Through the program, LRGHealthcare provided at cost, community benefit in the amount of $3,069,263.
Last Updated on Saturday, 16 February 2013 00:34
Hits: 71
Humane Society Launches No Cost Spay Neuter Fund
LACONIA — The New Hampshire Humane Society announces the launch of a new Spay & Neuter Fund targeting those in the community most in need of help, thanks to the generosity of a private donor.
The so-called No Cost Spay & Neuter Fund will afford access to sterilization surgery for those feeling the most financial stress, specifically aimed at pet owners who are experiencing true hardship.
Services with a minimal $10 co-pay, per household, to cover administration of the fund, will include
Spaying and Neutering companion cats and dogs, post operative pain medication, control of visually
noted parasites such as fleas and ticks, and vaccinations.
While the donor who endowed the fund wishes to remain anonymous the intent was clear, "help those who really need it; they still have pets that are able to reproduce. Not having the resources to afford the surgery means a continuance of animal suffering with pet overpopulation".
Staff Veterinarian, Dr. Brenda Stowe already runs the Humane Society's in-house S.N.A.P (Spay Neuter
Assistance Program) which has been in effect at the local shelter in Laconia for over four years. S.N.A.P
is a low cost spay/neuter program that anyone wishing to access affordable sterilization surgery for their
pet can apply to.
"The newer No Cost Fund aims to help those who cannot afford even this option" said Marylee Gorham NH Humane Society spokesperson. "Dr. Stowe's considerable surgical skills will allow us to reach an entirely different but nonetheless needy demographic".
The fund is open to residents of the Granite State who currently receive one or more of the nine assistance
programs offered by State of New Hampshire, including fuel assistance. With few restrictions, dogs must be under 50 pounds, those applying with supporting documentation will be set up with a surgery date to bring their animals to the animal welfare agency on Meredith Center Road, Laconia. Other than the $10
co-pay, cost of vaccines including the state mandated Rabies, treatment of observed parasites, and all
important pain management post operatively, is absorbed by the fund.
New Hampshire Humane Society has long been a forward thinking agency in terms of community
outreach initiatives. Pet Therapy, Internships, Pet Food Pantry and a vibrant volunteer service program
have been mission accomplishments since the new building was unveiled in 2006.
As a private stand alone non profit charitable organization, NHHS relies on the support of individuals and businesses aligned with the Society's basic tenets, speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves. No animal is euthanized for time or space restrictions, rather all are assured care and comfort until adoption – no matter how long the wait might be.
The so-called No Cost Spay & Neuter Fund will afford access to sterilization surgery for those feeling the most financial stress, specifically aimed at pet owners who are experiencing true hardship.
Services with a minimal $10 co-pay, per household, to cover administration of the fund, will include
Spaying and Neutering companion cats and dogs, post operative pain medication, control of visually
noted parasites such as fleas and ticks, and vaccinations.
While the donor who endowed the fund wishes to remain anonymous the intent was clear, "help those who really need it; they still have pets that are able to reproduce. Not having the resources to afford the surgery means a continuance of animal suffering with pet overpopulation".
Staff Veterinarian, Dr. Brenda Stowe already runs the Humane Society's in-house S.N.A.P (Spay Neuter
Assistance Program) which has been in effect at the local shelter in Laconia for over four years. S.N.A.P
is a low cost spay/neuter program that anyone wishing to access affordable sterilization surgery for their
pet can apply to.
"The newer No Cost Fund aims to help those who cannot afford even this option" said Marylee Gorham NH Humane Society spokesperson. "Dr. Stowe's considerable surgical skills will allow us to reach an entirely different but nonetheless needy demographic".
The fund is open to residents of the Granite State who currently receive one or more of the nine assistance
programs offered by State of New Hampshire, including fuel assistance. With few restrictions, dogs must be under 50 pounds, those applying with supporting documentation will be set up with a surgery date to bring their animals to the animal welfare agency on Meredith Center Road, Laconia. Other than the $10
co-pay, cost of vaccines including the state mandated Rabies, treatment of observed parasites, and all
important pain management post operatively, is absorbed by the fund.
New Hampshire Humane Society has long been a forward thinking agency in terms of community
outreach initiatives. Pet Therapy, Internships, Pet Food Pantry and a vibrant volunteer service program
have been mission accomplishments since the new building was unveiled in 2006.
As a private stand alone non profit charitable organization, NHHS relies on the support of individuals and businesses aligned with the Society's basic tenets, speaking for those who cannot speak for themselves. No animal is euthanized for time or space restrictions, rather all are assured care and comfort until adoption – no matter how long the wait might be.
Last Updated on Saturday, 16 February 2013 00:28
Hits: 81
Moultonborough Coalition For Mental Health and The Prevention of Suicide plans Feb. 21 Forum
MOULTONBOROUGH — In recognition of the fact that knowledge is key to the successful management of one's mental health, The Moultonborough Coalition For Mental Health and the Prevention of Suicide is
sponsoring an educational forum entitled: Depression Across The Lifespan at 7 p.m. on February 21 at the Moultonborough Public Library.
Presenters from Northern Human Services and NAMINH will engage in a panel discussion with specific presentations on how depressive illness manifests in children, adolescents, adults and elders and the prevention of suicide across the developmental spectrum.
Dr. Melissa Myers, Psychiatrist from Northern Human Services will lead the discussion of medication management as an adjunct to therapeutic intervention and treatment of depression.
Karen Richards, LCMHC will discuss the signs and clinical treatment of depression in children; Judith Glick, LCMHC will review adolescent depressive illness, signs, symptoms and treatment; Eve Klotz, LICSW will discuss adult depression and access to Northern Human Services Emergency Services.
Depression in the elderly will be addressed as a panel discussion and Karen Richards, will do a brief presentation of REAP, a free, community based program offered by Northern Human Services which targets mental health issues and treatment of the elderly.
Presenters from NAMINH CONNECT, Annette Carbonneau and Cabrinni Kulish-Tobinshe will engage the discussion of suicide prevention by offering resources and education as well as a presentation by a family member survivor of suicide.
There will be an opportunity for questions and answers at the end of presentations and all presenters will remain after the forum for further informal discussion to end the evening. There will also be a resource table and refreshments available throughout the evening.
This is a free forum sponsored by The Moultonborough Coalition for Mental Health and The Prevention of Suicide. The Coalition is funded by the taxpayers of Moultonborough with support from LRGH and The Moultonborough Family Health Center.
sponsoring an educational forum entitled: Depression Across The Lifespan at 7 p.m. on February 21 at the Moultonborough Public Library.
Presenters from Northern Human Services and NAMINH will engage in a panel discussion with specific presentations on how depressive illness manifests in children, adolescents, adults and elders and the prevention of suicide across the developmental spectrum.
Dr. Melissa Myers, Psychiatrist from Northern Human Services will lead the discussion of medication management as an adjunct to therapeutic intervention and treatment of depression.
Karen Richards, LCMHC will discuss the signs and clinical treatment of depression in children; Judith Glick, LCMHC will review adolescent depressive illness, signs, symptoms and treatment; Eve Klotz, LICSW will discuss adult depression and access to Northern Human Services Emergency Services.
Depression in the elderly will be addressed as a panel discussion and Karen Richards, will do a brief presentation of REAP, a free, community based program offered by Northern Human Services which targets mental health issues and treatment of the elderly.
Presenters from NAMINH CONNECT, Annette Carbonneau and Cabrinni Kulish-Tobinshe will engage the discussion of suicide prevention by offering resources and education as well as a presentation by a family member survivor of suicide.
There will be an opportunity for questions and answers at the end of presentations and all presenters will remain after the forum for further informal discussion to end the evening. There will also be a resource table and refreshments available throughout the evening.
This is a free forum sponsored by The Moultonborough Coalition for Mental Health and The Prevention of Suicide. The Coalition is funded by the taxpayers of Moultonborough with support from LRGH and The Moultonborough Family Health Center.
Last Updated on Saturday, 16 February 2013 00:23
Hits: 205
Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation Applications Available
LACONIA — The Lakes Region Scholarship Foundation announces that applications are now available for the 2013-14 scholastic year.
Last year's applicants should have received an application in the mail (unless they are graduating in the spring of 2013). Applications are available through the guidance office of our local high schools, from our website: www.lrscholarship.org (under applicant section); by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 527-3533.
"Eligibility requirements are primarily established by donors," explained Paulette Loughlin, president of LRSF. "The majority of LRSF awards are restricted and were established for residents of Belmont, Gilford and Laconia – or – graduates of Laconia High School, Belmont High School, or Gilford High School (including residents of Canterbury and Gilmanton covered under SAU district umbrellas). However, students should check the applicant section of the website for a list of twenty-six exceptions, including the Annalee Thorndike Art Competition and the John F. Mullen Essay Competition.
"Detailed requirements for these "exception" scholarships are provided on our website" said Loughlin, who also noted that "In addition to scholarship information, a list of all our donors is available in the donor section of our website. In 2012, thanks to the generosity of 213 donor funds, a total of $235,300 was awarded to 314 recipients."
Joan Cormier, LRSF Executor Director, says that applications may be mailed to PO Box 7312, Gilford NH 03247-7312 or delivered to the office at the DeCamp Center, 14 Country Club Road, Gilford by April 15, 2013.
''Since we must compile, record, and rate nearly 350 applications within a very narrow timeframe, it is vital that applications are complete and submitted with the necessary documentation by the deadline. Please don't hesitate to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 527-3533 if you have any questions." says Cormier.
Last year's applicants should have received an application in the mail (unless they are graduating in the spring of 2013). Applications are available through the guidance office of our local high schools, from our website: www.lrscholarship.org (under applicant section); by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 527-3533.
"Eligibility requirements are primarily established by donors," explained Paulette Loughlin, president of LRSF. "The majority of LRSF awards are restricted and were established for residents of Belmont, Gilford and Laconia – or – graduates of Laconia High School, Belmont High School, or Gilford High School (including residents of Canterbury and Gilmanton covered under SAU district umbrellas). However, students should check the applicant section of the website for a list of twenty-six exceptions, including the Annalee Thorndike Art Competition and the John F. Mullen Essay Competition.
"Detailed requirements for these "exception" scholarships are provided on our website" said Loughlin, who also noted that "In addition to scholarship information, a list of all our donors is available in the donor section of our website. In 2012, thanks to the generosity of 213 donor funds, a total of $235,300 was awarded to 314 recipients."
Joan Cormier, LRSF Executor Director, says that applications may be mailed to PO Box 7312, Gilford NH 03247-7312 or delivered to the office at the DeCamp Center, 14 Country Club Road, Gilford by April 15, 2013.
''Since we must compile, record, and rate nearly 350 applications within a very narrow timeframe, it is vital that applications are complete and submitted with the necessary documentation by the deadline. Please don't hesitate to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 527-3533 if you have any questions." says Cormier.
Last Updated on Saturday, 16 February 2013 00:19
Hits: 226
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