Putting the ‘care’ in health care

Putting the ‘care’ in health care

It wouldn’t be an understatement to say Liz Bauer, RN, puts the “care” in health care. In her role as Health Coach at the Sanford clinics in Canton and Beresford, she works tirelessly to bridge the gap for patients who cannot afford care.

“She is constantly referred patients that lack so many resources because she has a clear understanding of how health can be impacted by the lack of resources available to patients,” said coworker Elizabeth Bockelman.

According to Bockelman, Bauer is often challenged to find the best plan of care for a patient, keeping the patient’s financial situation in mind. Bauer frequently helps patients secure medication assistance, but she doesn’t stop there.

“Liz goes above and beyond and has even found housing and transportation for patients,” said Bockelman.

Bauer is also a strong believer in education as an avenue to better health.

“She is persistent in contacting patients to ensure they are receiving proper care and even does home visits to help patients when needed,” said Bockelman.

On a broader scale, Bauer routinely teaches a class in the local school system on sexually transmitted diseases, has shared information on diabetes education with local service clubs and provides information on vaccinations at the bike rodeo and health fair.

Bauer’s caring attitude doesn’t end when she walks out of her office each evening. When she heard that many students go hungry over school breaks when they do not receive food from the Love INC Friday Backpack Ministry, she found it unacceptable. She secured grant funds and, with the help of her coworkers, organized a food distribution to over 100 children last Christmas.

“She truly is an amazing resource not just for our facility but for the whole community,” said Bockelman.

In recognition of her contributions to Sanford Canton-Inwood Medical Center and the community, Bauer was recently chosen as the Sanford Canton-Inwood Medical Center’s Employee of the Quarter.

Posted In Beresford, Canton-Inwood, Location, Sanford Stories