As we reflect on the stories we’ve shared over the past year, it’s clear that Centra’s commitment to innovative healthcare is stronger than ever. From new technologies that improve patient outcomes to groundbreaking programs that redefine care delivery, each of these initiatives has been made a reality through the generous support of the Centra Foundation and its donors. Their dedication to funding these innovations enables Centra to bring the latest in healthcare advancements close to home for the communities we serve. Below you’ll find a recap of some of the stories we featured this year, showcasing the profound impact of generosity and our Foundation’s efforts.
Remote Home Monitoring (RHM) Program
One of the standout initiatives we shared this year was Centra’s Remote Home Monitoring (RHM) Program. Originally launched in March 2023, this program was designed to extend care to patients in the comfort of their homes, particularly for those managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, and hypertension. With the support of the Centra Foundation, patients were able to receive cloud-based health-monitoring technology including a tablet and participate at no additional cost during the program's first year which ensured that their health outcomes took priority. The program has already received well over 120 referrals, providing proactive care and continuous support to patients, reducing readmissions, and significantly improving their health habits. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with 100% of patients “agreeing” or “strongly agreeing” that their experience with RHM has been excellent.
da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System
The da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System has transformed the way surgeries are performed. This minimally invasive approach offers patients smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery times. One of the most powerful stories comes from Chuck McCombie, whose hernia surgery would have required a lengthy hospital stay without the robot. Instead, using the da Vinci Xi allowed for a minimally invasive procedure and a recovery that had Chuck walking down the hall just hours after surgery. The impact of this technology on both patients and surgeons is profound, made possible through the Centra Foundation’s funding, which helped bring this cutting-edge technology to Lynchburg General Hospital and Virginia Baptist Hospital.
EmPATH Unit: Transforming Behavioral Health
In 2024, Centra celebrated the one-year anniversary of the opening of Virginia’s first Emergency Psychiatric Assessment Treatment and Healing (EmPATH) Unit at Lynchburg General Hospital. This innovative space, designed to cater specifically to patients in mental health crises, has already demonstrated its value by reducing the length of stay in emergency departments and allowing patients to transition more quickly to the appropriate level of care. With 75% of patients being discharged from the EmPATH Unit rather than admitted to inpatient psychiatric care, the unit has proven to be a critical resource in addressing the growing need for mental health services. The establishment of this transformative unit was made a reality through the Centra Foundation’s support.
Human Trafficking Prevention Education
Centra’s commitment to strengthening the health of our communities also extends to combating human trafficking. Through the efforts of our forensic nursing team and collaboration with Freedom 4/24, Centra developed a training program and policy to help healthcare providers identify and respond to victims of human trafficking. The Centra Foundation played a pivotal role in bringing this innovative training to life, ensuring our clinicians are prepared to offer immediate and compassionate care to those in need. This initiative not only equips our staff with essential skills but also fosters stronger, safer communities through collaboration with local agencies.
Curve Navigation System for Spinal Surgery
Finally, the introduction of the Curve™ by Brainlab Navigation System for spinal surgery at Centra has revolutionized the precision and safety of these complex procedures. This advanced 3D navigational technology allows surgeons to see detailed, real-time images of a patient’s anatomy, enhancing surgical accuracy and reducing risks. By improving outcomes and minimizing invasiveness, the Curve Navigation System is helping patients recover more quickly and safely.
None of these advancements would have been achievable without the support of the Centra Foundation, whose generous contributions empower Centra to bring innovation close to home for our community. As we celebrate these successes, we also recognize the ongoing need for continued support to fuel future innovations that will improve healthcare for all.
If you are inspired by the impact these programs have had and would like to help us continue advancing care, or if you would like to learn more about the many ways our Foundation impacts patients, families, Caregivers and Centra, please visit CentraFoundation.com
Click here to learn more about how to give. Your generosity helps ensure that Centra can continue providing cutting-edge, compassionate care to our patients, now and in the future.
