PALS Refresher

Southern Tier Health Care System, Inc. (STHCS) is a rural health network serving Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties in southwestern New York. It is the mission of Southern Tier Health Care System, Inc. to improve the health and wellness of the rural communities we serve.

STHCS was established in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, membership-driven organization headquartered in downtown Olean, NY. We were one of the state’s first four rural health networks, a group that has grown since to include more than 30 networks designated by the NYS Department of Health. Our members include area hospitals, physician groups, county health departments, home care providers and ambulatory medical services. We work with community partners to build programs and initiatives based on local needs.

​Our ever-evolving programs include the Southern Tier Emergency Medical System (STEMS), Southern Tier Overdose Prevention Program (STOPP) and Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) program. Respectively, these cornerstones train and credential a network of 93 local EMS agencies, provide overdose resources and education, and care for survivors of sexual assault. We offer navigation assistance for those seeking affordable health insurance and also to caregivers of older adults. We administer a regional Cribs for Kids program to give infant safe-sleep education and safe cribs to people in need. Our Stop the Bleed campaign provides community training and equipment to treat life-threatening bleeding emergencies.

STHCS runs targeted education campaigns on various public health topics. These include general safety themes; child health and safety; responsible prescription drug disposal; suicide prevention and mental health first aid; elder care for falls prevention, dementia and other chronic conditions; and community planning. We embrace innovative approaches like distance-learning and EMS simulation training to expand our reach and ensure our people receive the most comprehensive education possible.

We’re recognized locally and regionally for our significant impact on health care and quality of life in the tri-county area. Southern Tier Health Care System, Inc. always strives for new and more-effective ways to accomplish our rural health mission. Success takes a team effort. We’re Better Together.