2006 Business of the Year - October 13, 2006

Thursday, Parkland Medical Center was awarded the 2006 Business of the Year by the Greater Derry Chamber of Commerce. The award was presented to Anne Jamieson, Chief Executive Officer, at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner at Promises to Keep in Derry last night. Ralph Valentine, Vice President of the Chamber’s Board of Directors presented the award to Parkland for their sustained level of contribution to the Business Community in the Greater Derry Area.

“Parkland Medical Center is very active in promoting spirit, generosity and responsibility to the Derry Community,” said Valentine. “The hospital does this not only by donating dollars, but by volunteering employee time to local community organizations.”

Valentine noted that as the area’s largest employer, with nearly 650 employees, Parkland Medical Center offers area residents a stable source of job growth. He said, “Parkland recruits some of the most highly skilled and talented professionals by offering a generous benefit package that focuses on the individual needs that are most appropriate for employees and their families.” In partnership with local physicians and non-profit organizations willing to donate a portion of their services, Parkland works with the Greater Derry Community Health Services (CHS) to coordinate access to comprehensive services including primary care, hospital-based care, mental health and pharmacy services for those in need. “One of the most amazing statistics that I can report, is that last year, Parkland provided charitable health care and services to area residents amounting to over $4.2 million dollars,” said Valentine.

“Parkland has done such a great job in its role as a leading health care provider in the Derry area,” said Valentine. “Parkland’s fortune lies in the generosity of countless employees, volunteers, physicians and board members who tirelessly dedicate themselves to others.”

Other criteria for nomination included Parkland’s support of education within the community. Parkland offers an array of programs and support groups to ensure health education and resources are available to area residents. Support groups for those with diabetes, cancer, or heart disease are available and free health screenings on peripheral vascular disease, prostate cancer and skin cancer are offered to ensure health education and preventive measures are present in the community. Parkland employees are also encouraged to continue with their professional educational advancement and are offered a tuition reimbursement program for advanced degrees.

Business of the Year is awarded to the organization that represents pride for the Town of Derry by incorporating community services and educational outreach as part of their organizational mission. In addition, the organization must demonstrate positive employee relations and contribute to the growth of the business community.