News

Elaine LaRochelle, facilities director at Grande Ronde Hospital, has earned the designation of Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM). The CHFM is a national credential that distinguishes an individual as being among the elite in the healthcare facility management profession.

To earn the CHFM, an individual must satisfy eligibility requirements that incorporate a blend of work experience and education, agree to adhere to Professional Standards of Conduct, and pass the CHFM Examination. The CHFM Examination tests the knowledge required of a competent healthcare facility manager in the areas of Compliance, Planning, Design & Construction, Maintenance & Operations, Finance, and Administration. This testing is particularly rigorous – approximately 50 percent of those attempting the examination fail.

As facilities director, LaRochelle manages the Technical Services Department for GRH which has a staff of 16. The Technical Services Department is responsible for the day to day facility operations of the Hospital as well as its Regional Medical Clinic, Women’s Clinic and Children’s Clinic.Those responsibilities include clinical engineering, stationary engineering, security, vehicle maintenance, locksmithing, facility painting, signage, grounds care, equipment repair and project planning. It is interesting to note that not only LaRochelle excels at what she does, but that she is unique in a field that is traditionally and predominantly populated by men.

Grande Ronde Hospital was formally notified of LaRochelle’s accreditation by the American Hospital Association Certification Center in December.