Backus Hospital Announces New Programs
PrintNORWICH -- The William W. Backus Hospital today announced the creation of its new Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI).
CHI supports modern medicine with complementary therapies such as massage, guided imagery and pet therapy.
Backus, like a growing number of hospitals across the country, recognizes that wellness involves the mind, spirit and emotions as well as the body. For more than a year, the Integrative Care Advisory Council -- a team of Backus physicians, nurses, staff and community members -- has been exploring ways to integrate complementary therapies into the services it offers patients. CHI supplements modern medicine and technology with care that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. Programs include:
- Therapeutic massage, which can facilitate relaxation, decrease stress and anxiety, stimulate circulation and decrease the need for pain medication. Licensed Massage Therapists have begun their work at Backus, initially focusing their efforts on cancer patients. Brief bedside massages will be offered, and patients will have the opportunity to purchase extended massages.
- Therapeutic Pet Program, in which specially trained dogs bring comfort and companionship through contact with patients who desire these visits.
- Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster, a program that features guided imagery and relaxation techniques to help people feel calmer before surgery. This can lead to less pain after surgery and promotes quicker recovery.
Amy Dunion, a Registered Nurse and a Licensed Massage Therapist, has been named Program Coordinator of CHI. She praised the Hospital staff and advisory council for its support of the program.
Dunion, a Norwich resident and nurse at Backus for the past 25 years, said CHI complements conventional healthcare at Backus. For example, massage or guided imagery can help people undergoing chemotherapy or surgery, helping patients focus on positive aspects such as getting better rather than hair loss or discomfort.
“Every person has the ability to heal, that is to feel more whole, regardless of whether a cure is possible,” Dunion said.
For more information on complementary therapies to be offered at Backus, contact Dunion at 889-8331 x2483.