Other Planetree features and programs include:

* Single-patient rooms allow patients to heal in quiet privacy. Visitors can stay overnight on in-room beds. Open visiting hours allow loved ones to visit anytime the patient would like.
* An open-chart policy encourages patients to understand and take part in their own care. Patients are encouraged to enlist a care partner who can help and support the healing process.

* Alternative therapies are available for those who would like them - Reiki energy therapy and massage, for instance.
* A patient advocate/concierge visits each patient within 24 hours of admission to offer support and address any concerns.
* Trained pet therapy dogs visit patients who welcome a furry visitor.
* Special attention is paid to the nutritional needs of patients. They order delicious meals from a menu, and food is delivered according to the patients' needs, not on a rigid schedule. Visitors may also order "room service" from our Bistro restaurant.
* Spiritual needs are addressed through a network of volunteer chaplains, who pray for patients who request this comfort and visit with patients who would like company.
* A VIPeds program (Very Important Pediatrics) addresses the needs of our youngest patients, providing comfort and fun distractions for children in the hospital.
* Planetree "retreats" held regularly for staff support patient-centered concepts. These ideas are taught during the staff orientation process and are continually reinforced. Employees who embody Planetree ideals are recognized and rewarded frequently for their efforts.
* Managers and supervisors enlist the input of staff on decisions that affect their work. Many in-hospital committees are staff-run.
* In its efforts to restore, promote and maintain the health of the community, Fauquier Health has contributed more than $11.8 million in education, charity care and free health screenings to the community.

"Planetree is very pleased to award Fauquier Hospital this designation," said Susan Frampton, Ph.D., Planetree's president. "This recognition differentiates Fauquier as a hospital firmly committed to ensuring that its patients, staff and visitors feel cared for, supported, listened to and empowered as partners in the healthcare experience."

Planetree is a not-for-profit organization that has been at the forefront of the movement to transform healthcare from the perspective of the patient for more than 30 years. Today, the Planetree membership network is a global community of more than 250 acute care hospitals, continuing care facilities, outpatient clinics and consumer health libraries.

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