Oct. 29, 2024-- In a small ceremony at its flagship headquarters in downtown Toms River this morning, Partnership Health Centers/Integrity Health celebrated 15 years as Toms River Regional Regional 乐鱼体育s' signature healthcare provider.
Through policy making and leadership, the primary mission of Integrity Health and Partnership Health Centers is to "make people well," said Chairman Doug Forrester. In his remarks to those in attendance-- which included district administrators, Toms River board members, and PHC leaders and staff members-- Forrester thanked everyone for coming together to fulfill that goal, and said the school district represents "public leaders who get it."
In 2009, TRRS aligned with Partnership Health Centers for both health insurance and healthcare, with PHC settling into its location at 54 Washington Street, easily accessible to many throughout the district and community. Not only has the physical space expanded; so has PHC's services. Forrester noted that the healthcare company's offerings for district employees has grown to include acupuncturists, chiropractors, and mental health specialists.
All of it, Forrester said, is to maintain health, "to keep teachers in the classroom."
As PHC's healthcare footprint has grown, in was an opportune time to celebrate a 15-year merger that, at the time, was unique and quite novel.
"We couldn't be more happy or proud to continue this partnership," said Superintendent Michael Citta, "and in Toms River, we like to be the first and the best, so we're especially proud to be the first!"
Citta lauded Forrester and Integrity Health's foresight and vision, and said the partnership has been a long-term financial blessing for a district in the midst of a fiscal crisis, and most importantly an incredible asset for Toms River educators and their families from a health and wellness perspective.
"You want your family to be in the best hands possible," said Citta, "and PHC is second to none."
Plaques of recognition and appreciation were given by Forrester to Citta, Dr. Mary McCabe-- the district's medical director-- nurse Mary Powell, and member advocate Michelle Grossguth. A proclamation from state and local representatives honoring the partnership was read by Forrester and shared with district partners.
Members of the Partnership Health Centers network will have their own chance to celebrate the anniversary, with a "Member Appreciation Day" scheduled for Nov. 12 that will include raffles, giveaways, food, and refreshments.
To say it's a healthy partnership is apropos, and it's certainly one worth celebrating and one that the district and PHC will work closely to extend for another 15 years and counting.
Additional photos below.