our services: River Hospital - Serving the Thousand Islands ... Close to home

Acute Care

"Personalized health care where you live and vacation"

With the availability of our many on-site diagnostic testing and therapy services, the Acute Care unit consists of 24 beds, 15 of which are designated as critical access beds. Patients who are acutely ill may be admitted to these beds for a period of 96 hours, after which they may be discharged, admitted into the River Hospital Swing Bed program, transferred to assisted living facilities or transferred to another acute care facility. Many diagnostic ancillary services are also available on-site to provide more efficient care. Medical care is provided by physicians and nurse practitioners. Nursing care is provided on a 24-hour basis by licensed practical nurses and nurses' aides under the supervision of registered professional nurses. Patient care is individualized and personal. For more information call (315) 482-1166 or (315) 482-1168.

Swing Bed Care

"Compassionate care while you recuperate"

With the availability of our many on-site diagnostic testing and therapy services, the Swing Bed program is a "short term" rehabilitative program which provides skilled nursing services for patients who need a longer recuperation period following an acute illness or surgical procedure. Patients are cared for on the same unit as acute care patients while recovering. Appropriate discharge plans are formulated in anticipation of returning home or to prior living arrangements. For more information call (315) 482-1166 or (315) 482-1166.

Long Term Care

"Where there is comfort in life's transitions"

The Long Term Skilled Nursing Facility provides 24-hour nursing care for up to 27 residents. This unit offers a full range of services for residents including nutritional care and counseling, activities, social services, medical and rehabilitation services. Beauty salon services, wireless internet access and cable television are also available in addition to Spiritual Care. Our small community atmosphere provides the residents excellent individual care and attention. The residents here are regarded as part of our family. Questions about long-term care and placement can be answered by calling 315-482-1141 or 315-482-1165.

Ambulatory Surgical Care

"Quality efficient care on the 'cutting edge' of technology"

Under the medical direction of General Surgeon, Dr. David Rosner, M.D., River Hospital proudly announces the opening of the new Ambulatory Surgical Unit. This new addition to the services provided by River Hospital will offer our communities the option of having minor surgical procedures and Colonoscopies performed close to home and delivered with special care. Ambulatory Surgery is a concept where surgical procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Presently, general surgery, gynecology and ophthalmology are the minor outpatient surgical procedures planned with additional specialties under consideration. For more information call (315) 482-251 Ext. 250 or 150.

Adult Day Care Program

"Promoting individual wellness and independence"

River Hospital's Adult Day Health Care program is a medical model program designed to care for individuals who have a medical need. Registrants of the Adult Day Care program benefit from a variety of medical and social activities. Our facility has the added advantage of a spectacular view of two of the most beautiful tourist attractions in New York State - Boldt Castle and the St. Lawrence River. The program operates Monday through Friday.

WHAT IS ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE? Adult Day Health Care is a medical program designed to promote individual wellness under the direction of a physician and the supervision of a Registered Nurse. The staff members are certified, registered or licensed by the appropriate New York State agency. Staff works together as a team to develop a care plan for each registrant enrolled in this program.

WHO CAN ATTEND? Individuals over 18 years of age who have a doctor's recommendation may enroll in the program for up to five days per week.

WHAT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED? Registrants who attend Adult Day Care receive a variety of services, including: Care planning for present and future needs to help the registrant remain independent; Financial counseling; Medical treatment; Medication monitoring; Nutritional Therapy; Physical Therapy; Registered Nursing Supervision; Social and Recreational Activities; Social Services; And transportation to and from the program.

WHAT IS THE PROGRAM FOR? The Adult Day Care program is designed to: Maintain individuals in their homes longer by providing day supervision; Give families who are primary care givers relief during the day time; Assist elderly or dependent adults with appointments, personal care, nutritional and therapy needs; Decrease the number of medical emergencies by having the Adult Day Health Care team observe the registrants to identify and act on medical issues before the issues become critical.

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL DAY? Upon arrival to the Adult Day Care Program, the day's events begin with a warm welcome and morning snack; Morning activities include crafts, baking, games, painting or outings; Medication and therapy treatments are done based upon need and physician orders; Personal hygiene needs are addressed on an individual basis; A hot lunch is served [arrangements can be made for special dietary needs]; And activities are planned on a daily basis.

WHO PAYS FOR ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE? Some insurance companies will cover the cost of Adult Day Care. Medicaid will pay for Adult Day Health Care, but Medicare does not. It is always best to check with your individual insurer, or consult with our Social Services Department at 315-482-1165 to determine insurance coverage for this service. For further information about Adult Day Health Care Services call 315-482-1166.

Laboratory

"Helping People One Test at a Time"

River Hospital's Laboratory provides a variety of on-site clinical diagnostic testing services to in-patients, as well as out-patients. The laboratory staff is dedicated to timely delivery and accurate results. The staff includes Certified Medical Technologists, Technicians and Phlebotomists. The Medical Director is a Board Certified Pathologist. Routine and emergency services, including: Hematology, Coagulation, Chemistries, Serology, Blood Bank, Bacteriology. Laboratory testing requires an order from a physician or other authorized provider. Many blood tests require pre-test fasting in order to provide an accurate test result. Ask your physician or call the laboratory at 315-482-1112 if you have any questions on whether fasting is required for your lab work. Scheduled Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon If these times are not convenient to your schedule call (315) 482-1114 for an appointment.

Radiology

"We care about your 'image'!"

River Hospital offers many general and specialized radiography exams. The department is staffed by Board Certified Radiologists and Registered Radiology Technologists. The department is proud to be an American College of Radiology Accredited facility and FDA approved for mammography. The department has 24-hour emergency, in-patient and out-patient coverage, with the non-emergency services available by appointment. Services include: Mammography, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, Fluoroscopy, Emergency and Routine X-ray, CT Scan, Ultrasound, and Bone Densitometry. Non-emergency procedures are by appointment and can be scheduled with the department by calling 315-482-1122.

CT SCANNER The Siemens Somatom Emotion Scanner testing aids in diagnosing multiple conditions, such as unexplained pain, post surgery needs, chemotherapy and radiation evaluation, injuries and stroke. DXA

BONE DENSITOMETER River Hospital utilizes the LUNAR bone densitometer for axial measurement of bone density. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is facilitated by bone mineral density (BMD) measurement of the lumbar spine and hip using dual energy X-ray absorption (DXA). This highly sensitive densitometer identifies bone loss at the major fracture sites, such as the femur and spine, in just minutes. In addition to the standard sites we also offer: Dual Femur measurement to assess the average density of both femurs for confident patient management; and Total Body measurement for both bone density and body fat assessment. This is an excellent tool to assess weight loss therapies and endocrine/growth disorders for pediatric and adult patients with secondary osteoporosis.

HEEL BONE DENSITY River Hospital's Radiology Department also offers Heel Bone Density testing. This is the initial test to evaluate for osteoporosis.

ULTRASOUND [SONOGRAM] The Anteras ultrasound machine is versatile and expands the range of testing available in the department, such as obstetrical exams, breast exams, abdomen and pelvic exams, arterial and venous exams, testicular and prostate evaluation.

MAMMOGRAPHY River Hospital offers Mammography services with new Digitized R2Checker technology and Stereotactic Breast Biopsy capabilities to aid in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer. Women are encouraged to have annual mammograms which are done by a registered technologist certified in Mammography. River Hospital is a certified Softer Mammogram Provider, a distinction awarded only to an elite group of healthcare facilities. River Hospital is contributing to the increase in the number of area women who follow recommendations for regular screenings. Scheduled Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday - 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For appointment call (315) 482-1122 .

Physical Therapy and Evaluations

"Stepping Up To Better Health"

"Our goal is to increase physical activity, restore mobility, strength, and encourage independent living through personalized programming." River Hospital offers rehabilitation services to the St. Lawrence River Communities. Our friendly, licensed, professional staff provides high quality care in a friendly atmosphere with an amazing view overlooking Boldt Castle. Maintenance Programs and Gym Memberships designed by licensed and professionals are available to decrease stress and enhance health and wellness. Services available include McKenzie Treatments/Techniques; Myofascial Release/Craniosacral Techniques; Training in the use of Adaptive Equipment (i.e. crutches, walkers); Pain Management Modalities: (ultrasound, electric stimulation, hydrotherapy, etc.); Exercise Programming for strength, endurance, range of motion, flexibility, balance and coordination; Soft tissue mobilization and massage; Postural Education and Body Mechanics.

CARDIAC REHABILITATION Phase III Cardiac Rehabilitation For those who have had a heart attack, coronary artery bypass, angioplasty, angina and those at risk for heart disease who have not experienced a recent cardiac event. Phase III offers continued supervised exercise sessions after a patient has completed phase I & II. Cardiac Rehabilitation exercise and education classes conducted by experienced licensed Physical Therapists for persons who have had a heart attack, bypass surgery, or treatment of angina. Classes include heart rate and blood pressure monitoring, individually prescribed exercise sessions three times a week and development of a home exercise program. Education sessions include angina and heart disease, stress management, heart healthy diet and medications. A doctor's referral is required for admission into the program. Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation A program designated for the most stable, experienced exerciser. If offers a more flexible schedule with periodic evaluation and assessment by the staff. The monthly fee is based on frequency of visits. Check with your health insurance carrier for coverage eligibility concerning Phases III and IV.

SPORTS CONSULTATION This service is an evaluation of acute sports injuries provided by a New York State Certified Athletic Trainer. Appropriate referrals are then made to primary care physicians within 24 hours.

SENIOR PROGRAM This program is designed for healthy lifestyles to increase flexibility, balance, posture, strength, endurance and more.

OSTEOPOROSIS PROGRAM Designed to relieve pain, improve body alignment and restore body height, this program can also help individuals with degenerative disc disease, spondylothesis, slipped disc and other conditions that may be causing neck and/or back pain.

WELLNESS / ADULT FITNESS PROGRAM Designed for individuals interested in a general exercise/fitness program, a Gym Maintenance program is individually customized and supervised by professionals at a low monthly fee. Convenient Flexible Hours: Monday - Friday 6:00 a .m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information call (315) 482-1116

Cardiopulmonary & Respiratory Services

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away." - Hilary Cooper

Breathing problems can affect you and your family's entire life. We are here to help you breathe better, easier and longer. River Hospital's family of services includes a dedicated Cardiopulmonary and Respiratory Care staff who work with the medical and nursing staff to provide therapies and diagnostic procedures needed to assess and treat lung and heart problems. Certified Respiratory Therapists and Cardio-graphic Technicians are on staff to provide routine inpatient and outpatient pediatric and adult pediatric testing, as well as 24 hour availability for emergency services. Routine and emergency services include: Transport Ventilation, Ambulatory/Nocturnal Pulse Oximetry, Patient Education for Asthma/Respiratory Medication Treatment, Heart and Lung Diagnostic Testing, 24 Hour and 30 Day Cardiac Event Monitoring, Electrocardiograms and more. For questions call (315) 482-2511. After hour appointments are also available.

Nutrition Counseling/Diabetes Education Services

"Teaching you to eat well, live well and be well."

The connection between diet and disease has been firmly established in medical research. Reductions in overall fat intake, particularly saturated fat and cholesterol, accompanied by increased intake of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits has shown to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases like diabetes, some forms of cancer, heart disease and obesity. To teach you how to incorporate healthy nutrition habits into your lifestyle, River Hospital provides up-to-date nutrition education and counseling.

At River Hospital, our New York State certified, registered dietitians are dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized nutrition counseling and education to enhance your ability to achieve your health goals. We consult with your physician and work with your healthcare team to ensure your nutrition plan meets your specific health needs.

Our registered dietitians will assist you in prioritizing nutrition and lifestyle changes to meet your individual health goals, as well as work with you each step of the way to monitor ongoing progress. Our nutrition counseling and education program will enhance and complement the treatment plan prescribed by your physician, improving your overall health and wellness.

Our services include: Medical Nutrition Therapy [MNT] for all age groups, including a comprehensive nutrition evaluation & assessment, personalized instruction including appropriate educational materials, nutritional support and meal planning, guidance with individual goal setting, as well as follow-up education and on-going support as you work toward your health goals. In addition, The River Hospital has one of the only Certified Diabetes Educators (CDE) in Jefferson County providing diabetes education, including individualized diabetes self management education, Diabetes Cooking Classes and a monthly Diabetes Support Group.

Many insurance companies are covering MNT with a physician's referral. Check with your insurance company to see if your visit with our Registered Dietitian and/or Certified Diabetes Educator will be reimbursed. For more information on individual nutrition counseling, diabetes education, free education programs, or to schedule an appointment, call [315] 482-1128.

We look forward to helping you meet your individual nutrition goals through behavior modification.

The old proverb "You are what you eat" still rings true. To help you learn how to incorporate a healthy diet into your day, River Hospital provides up-to-date nutrition education and counseling. The impact and role of diet and disease has been firmly established in medical research. Reductions in overall fat intake [particularly saturated fat and cholesterol], accompanied by increases in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits have been shown to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases like diabetes, some forms of cancer, heart disease and obesity.

At River Hospital, our registered, certified dietitians are dedicated to providing high-quality, individualized nutrition counseling and education to enhance your ability to achieve your goals. We consult with your physician and work with your healthcare team to ensure a nutrition plan that meets your specific health needs.

Through the close monitoring of our patient's dietary needs and making lifestyle modifications and healthier nutrition choices, overall health and wellness can improve. Such improvements will complement the treatment plan prescribed by your physician. Our services include: Comprehensive nutrition evaluation & assessment; Medical Nutrition Therapy [MNT] for all age groups; Personalized instruction including appropriate educational materials, nutritional support and meal planning, and guidance with goal setting; Follow-up and on-going support; Obesity Counseling; Diabetes Counseling; Diabetes Support Group and other group classes and seminars on health related topics, as scheduled. Many insurance companies are covering nutrition counseling with a physician's referral. Check with your insurance company to see if your visit will be reimbursed. For more information on individual nutrition counseling, group events or to schedule an appointment, call [315] 482-1128. We look forward to helping you meet your individual nutrition goals through behavior modification.

Social Services

"Assisting with social needs for our Residents and Communities"

Our social worker is available to provide compassionate case management to accommodate the needs of each patient in our Acute and Swing Bed Units, residents in our Long Term Care Unit, and on an outpatient basis. For our patients and residents, a holistic care plan is implemented upon admission to ensure a smooth transition, with the utmost consideration for the emotional, spiritual, personal and physical needs of each individual. Along with admission coordination, River Hospital's social worker also provides intervention with families, counseling on an as needed basis, and discharge planning.

Our social worker serves as a liaison with community agencies that support residents in-house and after discharge. For further information Phone: 315-482-2511 ext. 165.

Medical Waste/"Sharps Container" Disposal

"Caring for the environment while we care for your health"

River Hospital is concerned with the health and welfare of our patients and the community. Concern for the environment is of growing importance within our culture. Safe disposal of medical waste from home health care patients is a significant concern. This directly affects your safety, particularly with healthcare workers and waste collectors. River Hospital currently uses approved procedures for disposal of medical waste.

If you are a home health care patient we offer you the ability to use our existing services to safely and efficiently dispose of your medical waste. We are committed to assisting you in creating a healthier and safer environment in your home.

Medical Waste - Medical waste is sharp or penetrating materials, also referred to as "Sharps" that might come in to contact with blood or other bodily fluids and present a health hazard to others. Such items include: needles, syringes, scalpel blades and any other sharp objects used in your treatment activities.

Required Materials - To protect against accidental contact with contaminated sharps, containers with walls and caps heavy enough to prevent sharps from coming through are required. Such containers include hospital grade "sharps containers". These are red containers constructed of heavy plastic with safety lids. Heavy plastic laundry detergent containers with solid caps will also work.

Guidelines - All "sharps" must be placed in puncture-proof containers. Hospital grade red "sharps" containers are available from River Hospital. Please inquire about receiving yours at the Admissions desk in our reception area.

Disposal And Transporting Medical Waste - Once your container is full, simply close the lid and return it to the hospital's Admissions desk. We will provide you with another unused container and safely dispose of your full one. Your medical waste materials will be accepted from 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you have any questions or concerns you may call Rick Bain or Valarie Bain at (315) 482-2511.

We are pleased to provide this service and to assist you with your home health care medical waste needs.

Environmental Management and Regulatory Compliance Department
(315) 482-1144
(315) 482-1121

Smoking Cessation

"Kicking ashes one butt at a time"

River Hospital is proud to publicize ourselves as a "Tobacco Free" facility. We ask that all individuals refrain from using tobacco products while on the hospital campus.

Because smoking affects more than just the smoker and there are so many reasons to quit, River Hospital is pleased to offer a Smoking Cessation Program with a certified provider for this service. Group classes will be offered every three months and consist of six-1 hr sessions. The schedule can be adjusted for participant convenience.

If you're ready to "kick butt" or have questions about this program and the help you can receive to manage this challenge, contact our Respiratory Therapy Department at (315) 482-1118 or (315) 482-2511.

"Caring for patients after the service"

Be sure to check out "Patient Resources" for additional information.

Facilitated Enrollment

River Hospital is driven by the mission of caring for patients 24 hours a day, seven days a week and assisting in providing financial assistance to meet those healthcare needs. River Hospital is committed to going beyond just treating patients in their time of need. We are improving the health of the River Communities through outreach programs that provide not only health education, but also access to affordable care.

At River Hospital we are pleased to offer a friendly staff to assist our uninsured patients in arranging appointments for Facilitated Enrollment Program to determine alternative options for health care coverage.

River Hospital and The North Country Prenatal/Perinatal Council, lead agency for the Facilitated Enrollment Program, have joined forces to help uninsured patients apply for Medicaid, Family Health Plus, and Child Health Plus, without the need to travel out of the community. A facilitated enroller will be available to answer eligibility questions, help families gather needed documentation, and will complete a Medicaid, Family Health Plus, or Child Health Plus application for anyone. The application will be submitted by the Facilitated Enrollment Specialist, eliminating the need for our patients to travel outside our area for impersonal appointments, in an effort to obtain assistance in meeting healthcare costs. Normally a preliminary eligibility screening can be completed at the appointment to facilitate processing the River Care application for reduction of any recent and future River Hospital bills.

Anyone interested in scheduling an appointment should contact River Hospital's Patient Accounting Office at (315) 482-1230. You will receive instructions about what information to bring to the appointment. Any uninsured members of the community are encouraged to schedule an appointment regardless of current outstanding bills or medical need. There is no cost to apply. Take this opportunity to gain peace of mind.

River Care Program

River Hospital asks all patients to pay balances in full within 30 days of service, but understands that this is sometimes not financially possible. In this case, patients are requested to contact the Patient Accounting Office at (315)482-1230 to make repayment arrangements on any outstanding accounts. If full payment is not received and a repayment agreement is not maintaining, River Hospital will be have no choice but to pursue further collection efforts.

PLEASE NOTE: If you currently have a repayment agreement on one or more accounts and new charges are accrued it is necessary to contact the Patient Accounting Office as the new charges are NOT automatically added to the current repayment arrangements.

Downloadable Patient Accounting Resource Information

• River Care Application (PDF Format)
• Interest Free Repayment Agreement (PDF Format)
  

River Hospital, Inc. - Financial Aid Policy Guidelines
(2006 Federal Poverty Levels and Capped Charges)

 

Family Size	100% of FPL		101% - 150% of FPL		151% - 200% of FPL		201% - 250% of FPL		251%- 300% of FPL
	Monthly	Annual	Monthly	Annual	Monthly	Annual	Monthly	Annual	Monthly	Annual
1	816.67	9,800.00	1,225.00	14,700.00	1,633.33	19,600.00	2,041.67	24,500.00	2,450.00	29,400.00
2	1,100.00	13,200.00	1,650.00	19,800.00	2,200.00	26,400.00	2,750.00	33,000.00	3,300.00	39,600.00
3	1,383.33	16,600.00	2,075.00	24,900.00	2,766.67	33,200.00	3,458.33	41,500.00	4,150.00	49,800.00
4	1,666.67	20,000.00	2,500.00	30,000.00	3,333.33	40,000.00	4,166.67	50,000.00	5,000.00	60,000.00
5	1,950.00	23,400.00	2,925.00	35,100.00	3,900.00	46,800.00	4,875.00	58,500.00	5,850.00	70,200.00
6	2,233.33	26,800.00	3,350.00	40,200.00	4,466.67	53,600.00	5,583.33	67,000.00	6,700.00	80,400.00
7	2,516.67	30,200.00	3,775.00	45,300.00	5,033.33	60,400.00	6,291.67	75,500.00	7,550.00	90,600.00
8	2,800.00	33,600.00	4,200.00	50,400.00	5,600.00	67,200.00	7,000.00	84,000.00	8,400.00	100,800.0
Each Additonal Member	+283.33	+3,400.00
Patient Balance*	$0.00 – no balance		20% of capped charges		40% of capped charges		60% of capped charges		100% of capped charges

*Anticipated patient responsibility after completion of the River Hospital Charity Care Application and approval by Financial Aid Committee.

Capped Charges:
River Hospital, Inc. caps charges for Financial Aid at the payer rate for the highest volume third party payer for the prior year. That third party payer contracted reimbursement rate was 80% of hospital charges for outpatient services and DRG calculation for inpatient stays.

Example:
A patient at 135% of the poverty level submits an application and is approved for a 80% discount with a patient responsibility of 20% of capped charges. If the total hospital outpatient charges are $100, the patient responsibility would be $16.00 ($100 charges x 80% = capped charges of $80 x 20% patient responsibility = $16.00)

Ask a registration clerk for a Financial Aid Packet if you are unable to pay your bill or feel you meet the guidelines above. You may also call the Financial Counselor at River Hospital directly at 482-1230 if you have any questions. Ask for Cherie.