Message from the CEO

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Cynthia Lewis, M H S A , C P H Q 2021 was a year of two steps forward with an occasional step back, then two more forward As a healthcare provider, VNA moved forward cautiously as the year unfolded — but move we did We did not escape the staffing challenges that crossed the healthcare continuum. For the first time in VNA’s history, we engaged contract agencies to help us staff our nursing needs, and we maximized our aide staff, but still had to limit admissions to our Help at Home program Both of these issues are not unique to the pandemic or to VNA, but are a reflection of the broader issues in the provision of care, particularly home care

In February, we became another part of the COVID-19 solution, offering personnel to Lawrence–Douglas County Public Health to give vaccinations to individuals who were unable to leave their homes. Members of VNA’s leadership team filled this vital role, while other members of our staff supported various clinic sites across Douglas County.

May brought one of those step backs, as our biennial 3.d fundraiser shifted from an in-person event to a mailed appeal to donors and sponsors. Not surprisingly, our community still rose to the occasion to support VNA. We took steps forward to bring our staff together as a large group. Our Social Committee organized a picnic that allowed our staff to gather safely for lunch and social connection for the first time in 15 months. It was a joyous day!

Our Hospice program celebrated its 40th anniversary in August. With COVID cases on the rise, we took a side step and held a parking lot celebration with our Hospice staff. Around the same time, though, we were also celebrating the special recognition of one of our Hospice volunteers. Florine O’Rourke, the Kansas Home Care and Hospice Association “Home Care Hero,” plays a special role with the contents of our children’s grief healing kits. Her story has been shared in our newsletter and is noted again in this report

VNA closed the year with the Management team developing new strategic priorities, so watch for exciting new ideas and resources over the next couple of years Much has changed over the past two years, but two things have not — the resilience and commitment of VNA staff and the incredible support of our community. Both will help us with those continuous steps forward!

Cynthia Lewis, CEO