Letter From Our CEO: Thriving in a Changing World

This letter was first published in our winter community newsletter, Healthcare Comes Home. To see the full newsletter, click here.

It’s been said that the one constant in life is change. While it can be by turns exciting or daunting depending on the circumstances, most will agree: It’s inevitable.

I’m pleased to report that here at Home Health & Hospice we are thriving in a time of great change. We are now one year into our affiliation with the UVM Health Network and we are already seeing patients benefit from our closer partnership. We are working collaboratively with our clinical colleagues from across the Network to redefine where and how care is delivered. We are piloting a program in which our nurses facilitate telemedicine physician home visits, and we are integrating home health nurses in primary care practices to better serve patients with multiple complex medical conditions, among other initiatives.

Healthcare reform efforts are driving change in Vermont and across the country. The good news is a renewed focus on keeping people well rather than treating them when they become sick, and the cost savings associated with keeping people out of the hospital, puts home health and hospice squarely in the spotlight. Our nurses and rehabilitation therapists can now provide a level of care in the home that was once only available in a hospital setting.

With such change comes opportunity. The need for home health and hospice services is growing rapidly and we are always looking to welcome new clinicians to the team. Home Health & Hospice is an exciting place to work for staff who bring a strong clinical background, a sincere desire to work closely with patients and leadership skills together to make a positive impact in the community. If you or anyone you know would be interested in learning more, please see the Careers section on our website.

If a new job is not your goal, there are many other ways to be a part of our family! I hope you’ll consider joining me at the 5K Fun Run & Walk or the Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival to raise funds in support of our beloved Respite House.

Spring seems a long way away when we are still battling the wind chill. But this too, will change.

Until then, stay warm!

Judy Peterson
President & CEO