Thundermist Health Center recently hosted its 49th Annual Meeting at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick. The organization honored recipients of the Francesco Cannistra, MD, Memorial Award and Thundermist Community Partnership Award.

Thundermist recognized David Valois, senior director, human resources, CVS Health, as the newly-appointed chair of the Thundermist Health Center Board of Directors. The board selected Frank Ferri, former Rhode Island representative, as vice chair.  

“I am honored to be selected by my peers to lead this outstanding organization. Thundermist is expanding access to quality health care for Rhode Islanders,” said Thundermist Board Chair David Valois. “I look forward to continuing our important work and making a positive impact in the communities we serve.”  

Thundermist President/CEO Jeanne LaChance, MBA, CPA, delivered the annual report at the meeting.

“I am proud to report one in every 20 Rhode Islanders turns to Thundermist for their health care,” said LaChance. “In 2017, we provided quality health care services to more than 45,000 patients. We established an array of programs and services to provide our patients with comprehensive, coordinated health care. We treat the entire patient – from head to toe and everything in between.”

Linda Cannistra, secretary of the Thundermist Board of Directors, presented the Francesco Cannistra, MD, Memorial Award to Senator Joshua Miller. The award is given each year to an individual or group who has contributed to improving health care in Rhode Island. Senator Miller is a true advocate for our most disenfranchised patients and community members.

President/CEO Jeanne LaChance presented the Community Partnership Award to CODAC Behavioral Healthcare. The Thundermist Board of Directors established the Community Partnership Award to recognize an organization that has provided exceptional support to the health center. CODAC has been instrumental in increasing access for patients seeking treatment for substance use disorders.

Tom Coderre, senior advisor to Governor Gina Raimondo, presented the keynote address. He discussed state efforts to address the overdose crisis.

 Thundermist Health Center is a non-profit community health center whose mission is to improve the lives of patients and surrounding communities by delivering exceptional health care that breaks down barriers and promotes healthy lifestyles. Services include primary medical care, dental care, behavioral health services, school-based health care, QuickCare, pharmacy, Trans* Health Access, and nutritional services, in particular a Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. Thundermist has locations in West Warwick, Woonsocket, and South County. It serves clients regardless of insurance and ability to pay. Thundermist Health Center is a Level 3 Patient-Centered Medical Home, the highest level of recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). In 2017 Thundermist served nearly 45,000 patients.