Congressman Gets Firsthand Look at Importance of Reusable Healthcare Textiles

U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) recently visited Northwest Health Care Linen in Bellingham, WA, to see in-person the importance reusable healthcare textiles play in maintaining the safety of healthcare workers, patients and the public. President of Customer Relations Kelsey Van Miert, along with her brother Evan Hall, president of operations, greeted Larsen and briefed him on the multigenerational business which provides jobs for more than 100 people.

“Northwest has been a part of the Bellingham community for over 20 years providing healthcare facilities the cleanest and safest products for healthcare workers and patients,” Van Miert said.

During the meeting, Van Miert discussed the importance of healthcare facilities maintaining a continuous flow of reusable textiles. “Reusable textiles represent a more sustainable and secure supply chain,” she said. “One reusable gown takes the place of 75 single-use options. With reusables, nurses and other healthcare staff will not be wearing trash bags as PPE.”

After the company overview and policy discussion, Rep. Larsen was given a tour of the plant floor, meeting with several Northwest Health Care Linen team members. “Congressional visits are the best way to show the importance of the industry as well as the importance of reusable healthcare textiles,” said Kevin Schwalb, TRSA’s vice president of government relations.

Contact Schwalb at kschwalb@trsa.org to organize a plant tour with your member of Congress. “Showing policymakers the operations of the linen, uniform and facility services industry shows why the industry is recognized as an essential business,” Schwalb said.