Choosing a Doctor Who Cares About Your Community & Health
More Than a White Coat: How Your Provider's Community Work Impacts Your Health
Key Takeaways:
- Choose a health care system that actively invests in the community causes you care about, from mental health resources to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Look for providers who listen to local needs; Chesapeake Regional uses community surveys to create programs that directly address health inequities in Hampton Roads.
- Understand that a provider's community involvement, like our recent recognition as a Civic 50 honoree, often signals a deeper commitment to patient-centered, compassionate care.
- Support for employees translates to better care for you. When health care teams are empowered, they can focus on providing the best possible experience for patients.
Find Health Care That Aligns With Your Values
Choosing a doctor or health system often feels like a transaction, but what if it could be a partnership with an organization that shares your values? Your health is influenced by more than what happens in an exam room; it's shaped by the community where you live, work, and connect. That's why finding a health care provider who is genuinely invested in the well-being of your neighborhood is so important. At Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, our commitment is to the people of Hampton Roads. We believe that by actively working to solve local challenges, from mental health crises to health care access, we can provide care that is more understanding, inclusive, and effective. This approach is central to our mission and why we are proud to be named a Civic 50 Hampton Roads honoree, an award recognizing the most community-minded companies in the region.
Move Beyond the Exam Room to Understand Real-World Health
Effective health care starts with listening. To truly serve our community, we first have to understand its unique challenges. Every three years, Chesapeake Regional partners with local organizations to conduct a Community Health Needs Assessment Survey. This isn't just about collecting data; it's about hearing directly from you and your neighbors about the top health concerns and social factors that affect your lives. We then use that information to build programs that provide real solutions.
For example, in response to survey findings about access to care, we launched a Mobile Health Clinic in 2024. This initiative brings essential health services directly into underserved neighborhoods, breaking down barriers like transportation and cost. We also have a Mobile Mammography Unit that provides vital breast health services to those who might otherwise go without. Despite receiving lower reimbursement rates than other regional providers, we proportionately deliver more charity care because we are committed to serving everyone, regardless of their circumstances. This is what it means to be an independent, community-based hospital focused on people.
Show Up for the Causes That Matter
A health system's values are best demonstrated through its actions. We know that building a healthier community means supporting every part of it. That's why we actively sponsor and participate in events that celebrate the diversity of Hampton Roads, including Pride in the Peake and local Juneteenth celebrations. Creating a more inclusive environment makes our community stronger and ensures that everyone feels seen and supported when they seek care.
We are also tackling some of our region's most pressing health crises head-on. To address the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic, our PROUD Program provides free Naloxone to help prevent overdoses. Recognizing the growing need for mental health support, we established a dedicated Behavioral Health Unit within our Emergency Department to provide immediate, specialized care during a crisis. For families, we host a Baby Expo, diaper distribution events, and Parent Café sessions to provide education and a strong support network for new parents. These programs are designed to meet you where you are, addressing the real-life issues that impact your health and well-being.
Empower the People Who Provide Your Care
The best health care comes from a team that feels valued, connected, and empowered. At Chesapeake Regional, we foster a culture where every employee can contribute to our mission. Our Employee Engagement Committee, comprised of staff from all departments, plans events that strengthen our internal community and reinforce our values of teamwork and inclusion. This approach creates a motivated and collaborative workforce dedicated to providing excellent patient care.
Our commitment extends beyond our hospital walls. For several years, Chesapeake Regional has supported Women Build Weeks with Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads. This initiative, led by our Chief Operating & Nursing Officer, Amber Egyud, brings together female employees from across the organization to build safe, affordable housing for local families. When our team members are actively involved in strengthening the community, that sense of purpose and compassion is reflected in the care they provide to patients every day. It builds a bridge of trust, showing that we are your neighbors, invested in making Hampton Roads a better place for all of us.
Your Health Is Woven into the Fabric of Our Community
Choosing a health care provider is a significant decision. In a world of large, impersonal health systems, Chesapeake Regional remains the only independent, community-based hospital in Hampton Roads. Our connection to this community is our foundation. Being named a Civic 50 honoree is not just an award for us; it is a reflection of a promise we made nearly 50 years ago to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. Our deep investment in local initiatives, from addressing health inequities to supporting new families, is intertwined with the medical care we provide. We believe that by fostering a healthier, more equitable Hampton Roads, we create a better environment for everyone to thrive. When you choose Chesapeake Regional, you are choosing a partner who sees your health as part of a bigger picture.
Find a Chesapeake Regional provider today and experience health care that is deeply invested in you and your community.
FAQ:
What is The Civic 50 Hampton Roads award?
The Civic 50 Hampton Roads recognizes the 50 most community-minded companies in the region. It is awarded by VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads and Points of Light based on a company's investment, integration, and impact in community engagement.
How does Chesapeake Regional support mental health in the community?
Chesapeake Regional has a dedicated Behavioral Health Unit in the Emergency Department to provide specialized care for mental health crises. We also partner with community organizations to promote mental wellness and reduce stigma.
Are there free or low-cost health services available through Chesapeake Regional?
Yes. Our Mobile Health Clinic brings essential health services to underserved areas. Our mobile mammography unit offers free breast health services to eligible patients, and we provide a significant amount of charity care through our hospital.
How does Chesapeake Regional Healthcare promote diversity and inclusion?
We sponsor and participate in community events like Pride in the Peake and Juneteenth celebrations. Internally, we run initiatives for Black History Month and Veterans Day to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace, which we believe leads to more culturally competent patient care.
What does being a "community-based hospital" mean for patients?
As the only independent, community-based acute care hospital in Hampton Roads, our decisions are made locally to meet the specific needs of our community, not by a distant corporation. This allows us to be more responsive and to focus on patient well-being over profits.
What kind of support does Chesapeake Regional offer for new parents?
We host an annual Baby Expo connecting families with local resources, conduct diaper distribution events for families in need, and sponsor Parent Café, a monthly support group that provides peer connection and education with on-site child care. Partnering with the Fatherhood Foundation and other critical community organizations help to bring these events to life.
