New 'ER Angels' help ease trauma of visits to the emergency room

Elmore Medical Center launched a new volunteer program on Friday, Dec. 12. the Emergency Room Angels.

The "angels" serve as a communication liaison between the families of Emergency Department patients and the ER staff. EMC Volunteer Coordinator Mary Jo Caranto and volunteers Jeanna Still, Dixie Mills and Katie Davis were on hand for the official program kickoff.

Volunteer duties include making rounds in the waiting area to provide updates for those who are waiting for a patient, and escorting patients, family members and visitors to various areas of the hospital.

"It is very rewarding to be able to help people who are coming into the ER," said ER Angel volunteer, Jeanna Still. "ER Angels are here to ease some of the stress and confusion that patients have when they need to come to the ER."

All ER Angels have received specific program training to enable them to serve in that capacity. Currently, the ER Angels will be staffing the volunteer desk on Friday evenings from 5-9 p.m.

As more volunteers join the program hours will be expanding to cover weekends and the remaining weekday evenings.

Anyone interested in becoming a ER Angel or who wants to learn more about other volunteer opportunities at Elmore Medical Center should contact Mary Jo Caranto, volunteer coordinator, at 587-8401 ext. 187.