Thanks to recent funding through an OVS VOCA subcontract through Connecting Communities in Action we have expanded resources to the SAFE Providers. We are happy to have dedicated examiners at each of our SAFE Centers at UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown, NY, Olean General Hospital in Olean, NY and Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, NY.  

Also, in June 2020, OVS released new guidelines for reimbursement for Forensic Rape Exams. STHCS has been working diligently with each of the hospital’s billing departments to ensure the proper documentation is being submitted to OVS. We are looking forward to receiving payments and this new reimbursement rate allowing us ​to better serve the sexual assault survivors in our area.  We would like to thank the billing department and administration at each facility for working with on these new requirements!

This week I was able to meet with the WNY Rural Area Health Education Center (Rural AHEC)’s Executive Director, Melanie Rhodes, about potential ways our organizations can collaborate in the future. It was shared with me the AHEC Scholars program provides an opportunity for college students, currently enrolled in a health professions program, to work as an interdisciplinary team while experiencing community-based training activities as well as receive supplemental learning through online modules will be taking place this summer. This program is a great opportunity for students working toward careers in healthcare, and more information can be found here.  

In partnership with CAReS, ACASA, Clarity Wellness Community, and the Cattaraugus County Department of Community Services,  the WNY COVID-19 Community Response Fund has awarded CAReS funding for the “Moving Forward Together” initiative. 
 
 This initiative will increase access to internet service in Cattaraugus and Allegany counties to allow individuals in treatment for Substance Use Disorder to access telehealth counseling services essential for their recovery. With the larger goal of enhancing access to other health services in our rural county via telehealth programs. We have been going through the interview process of potential candidates to be our Project Director.