ALAMOSA — In the spring of 2022, food service delivery at SLV Health will be enhanced by a new partnership with Aramark.

Aramark is an industry leader in providing dietary services. They specialize in providing nutrient-rich and calorie-counted diets that help meet the nutritional guidelines for patients and guests.

The Aramark team has committed to significant investment into local operations, enhancing technology such as remote temperature recording, new dishware, new computer systems, and new platforms for ordering and catering.

This venture will allow for greater purchasing power, saving the hospital on food costs along with expanding meal options.

“At some point we would like to offer new individual stations for sandwiches, stir fry, or even individual pizzas,” said Zach Weiderspon, SLV Health Senior Administrator for Conejos County Hospital. “Many employees have expressed the desire to have the salad bar return, which we are excited to offer in the near future."

Additionally, the plan is to keep popular themed days such as southwest foods that incorporate green and red chili. Finally, coffee service will be enhanced by offering top-of-the-line coffee options, which will be available to visitors and staff for free at any time of the day or night.

Adam Lawrence, Director of Clinical Nutrition at SLV Health, has been heavily involved in the transition to ensure the clinic needs are being met. Many patients face restricted diets due to varying health conditions.

Lawrence's job is to work with the hospital’s food service team to develop the appropriate therapeutic diets for patients.

“Aramark is a company that comes with a lot of expertise and experience in the foodservice industry and will be a great addition to our local team. The professionalism and support are evident already in the work being done to aid in this transition. I think patients and staff will be surprised at the quality and options that Aramark will be able to provide. I look forward to working with them more and improving the patient/staff experience at San Luis Valley Health,” said Lawrence.

Greg Pahr, Aramark’s District Manager, talked about the partnership with SLV Health and how it will benefit patients and guests, with technology to garner instantaneous feedback and suggestions.

“Aramark has retained and trained the local team, so patrons will continue to see familiar faces,” Pahr said. “We will be launching innovative programs intended to lift the guest and customer experience. This transformation begins first through extensive training and engagement with the frontline staff.”

Aramark was recently named a top company for its focus on employment equity. The company received two awards for achievement in diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on LGBTQ+ workplace equality and disability inclusion. Employees may qualify for continuing education certificates, all paid for by Aramark.

Weiderspon has been helping lead this transition by working closely with both cafeterias at the Regional Medical Center and Conejos County Hospital.

Aramark and SLV Health’s leaders have committed time, resources, and passion to this strategic partnership. Both organizations are committed to a long and productive relationship.