Article by Monica Brown, photos by Brandi N. Montreuil
TULALIP, Wash.- Recently Providence Medical Center and Tulalip Tribes have been strengthening their relationship so that both may benefit; staff at Providence will have more knowledge about what tribal member’s needs are in times of crisis and tribal members will feel more at ease while in the their care.
The old surgery waiting room has been remolded and is designed to accommodate traditional practices when tribal members are hospitalized. The new room called the Tulalip Community Room has been set-aside for tribal members to use and features a variety of sitting areas, a TV, phone, a small kitchenette, a computer with Internet access. The room also features elegantly carved art pieces by James Madison and Joe Gobin that decorate the walls,
and a large timeline of Tulalip Tribes history welcomes visitors as they walk in.
Tulalip Community Room is designed to provide comfort and privacy for family members and space to accommodate large gatherings.
“Especially in crisis time, all of our friends and family want to be there to give them [each other] a handshake, a hug. That’s how we are during crisis,” stated Don about the larger and quieter rooms.
Providence and Tulalip plan to meet every six months in order to address any underlying issues that may occur while tribal members are hospitalized.
“You’re an important and special part of our community,” said CEO of Providence Medical Center David Brooks. “I appreciate meeting here today and having open communications.”
Monica Brown: 360-716-4189; brown@tulaliptribes-nsn.gov