Eskenazi Health reopens NODA program for end-of-life volunteer support

The City Council of Indianapolis recently discussed the reopening of the NODA program, which stands for "No One Dies Alone," a volunteer initiative aimed at providing companionship to patients in their final hours. This program, which had been paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to resume due to significant community interest. Volunteers will offer compassionate presence to individuals who are expected to pass away within 24 to 72 hours, ensuring that no one faces their last moments alone. Interested individuals can reach out via email or phone for more information.

In addition to the NODA program, the meeting highlighted a significant achievement in healthcare technology. The Health & Hospital Corporation announced that it has received Stage 7 validation from the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). This recognition places the organization among only 6.4% of hospitals in the United States that have reached this level of electronic medical record adoption. The validation reflects a commitment to utilizing technology to improve patient outcomes and demonstrates a strong focus on health equity and patient engagement.

The meeting also touched on the importance of cancer awareness, as April is recognized as Cancer Awareness Month. The embrace program, which supports individuals facing cancer, aims to educate the community about risk factors and the importance of early medical attention for symptoms such as hoarseness or difficulty swallowing.

These discussions underscore the City Council's commitment to enhancing healthcare services and community support, addressing both immediate needs and long-term health outcomes for residents of Indianapolis.