Media Policy
The purpose of the media policy is to provide members of the media with access to medical specialists and as much information as reasonably possible while protecting the rights, confidentiality and comfort of patients and their families, hospital employees and others directly involved with Holland Hospital.
NO MEDIA IS PERMITTED ON THE PREMISES AT ANY TIME WITHOUT PRIOR PERMISSION AND AN ESCORT FROM THE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICE.
All media must make prior arrangements with the Public Relations Coordinator (Tim Breed, (616) 394-3590 or pager 713-0801) to be permitted on the premises. Upon arrival at the hospital, if not met by the PR Coordinator, media should contact the Marketing and Communications Department (494-4140) to be escorted. No other hospital employees are authorized to grant media access.
Release of Information
As long as the patient has not requested that information be withheld, the hospital may release the patient's one-word condition to individuals including members of the media who inquire about the patient by his or her full and correct name.
Patient Conditions Definitions
Undetermined |
Patient is undergoing physician assessment. |
Good |
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent. |
Fair |
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious, but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable. |
Serious |
Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. |
Critical |
Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. |
Deceased |
Confirmation that a patient has died may be given to the media ONLY after the Public Relations Office, Patient Care Coordinator or other authorized spokesperson has received confirmation that the family has been notified. The hospital may not disclose information regarding the date, time or cause of death. |
|
