Hospital CEO speaks to retired teachers

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Piscataquis County Retired Educators Association met July 28 at the Bear’s Den.  President Gil Reynolds welcomed 15 members and a guest. Gloria Burns led the Collect and Pledge of Allegiane, followed by the secretary’s report. Myrna Ricker gave the treasurer’s report and reminded members to pay their contribution for the scholarship fund.

Reynolds introduced Mayo Regional Hospital CEO Marie Vienneau. Vienneau is a nurse by training and most recently was a CEO in Millinocket. She gave an annual report noting that there were 125 births,12,000 ER visits and 14,000 lab tests last year. Ten new providers are now associated with the hospital, and there is a new MD at the Milo office.  

Vienneau noted that the hospital is going back to a 24/7 surgeon so weekends will be better covered. There are now two people to help people with no insurance and a podiatrist surgeon is also a new addition. The search for a new orthopedic surgeon  is ongoing. Concussion care has been expanded and the hospital is turning around financially. Vienneau’s report  was very informative and well received.

Following lunch, Rheba Michaud gave a report on the dinner being sponsoring Aug. 26 at the Congregational Church. Members were reminded of their part in the dinner which will be at 6 o’clock.

Reynolds noted that the next meeting will be Aug. 25 with Denise Buzzelli of the Piscataquis Chamber of Commerce as the speaker.

Lynne Snow asked if members could supply items for a yard sale to assist a local family with medical needs.  Members will do what they can to help.

The meeting was adjourned  with the next being Aug. 25.

Minnie McCormick reporting