Care Initiatives invests in improving resident access to care

Serving resident transportation needs increases care access and quality of life

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (March 19, 2024) - As part of Care Initiatives' commitment to improving the health and quality of life for Iowans, the state's largest non-profit operator of skilled nursing facilities has invested more than $200,000 to support the transportation needs of residents. New wheelchair-accessible vans have been delivered to three skilled nursing facilities and will provide greater access to care, improve community engagement, and provide peace of mind for resident families.

The three Care Initiatives locations receiving a new transport van include:

• Panora Specialty Care
• Northern Mahaska Specialty Care (Oskaloosa)
• NorthCrest Specialty Care (Waterloo)

"The vans will fill a gap for residents who have appointments with specialists and other health care providers outside of our buildings and provide peace of mind for family or friends who otherwise would have made those travel arrangements," said Jessica McDyer, Care Initiatives Vice President of Skilled Nursing Operations. "Plus, we'll be able to arrange more engaging activities for our residents within their community and have a way to ensure they are safely transported."

The Chrysler Voyager vans are equipped with a ramp for access by individuals who use a wheelchair or other walking device and provide necessary safety restraints for all passengers.