News / Media
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2011
Contact: Kathy Kilhart
Elder Services Director
(978) 632-1230
THE GVNA TO OPEN AN
ADULT DAY HEALTH CENTER
IN GREENFIELD
The Gardner Visiting Nursing Association (GVNA) is pleased to announce the change in ownership and opening of the GVNA Adult Day Health Services in Greenfield, MA. The Center is located at 60 Wells Street and will officially open as part of the GVNA's agency on December 1, 2011. "The GVNA opened its first Adult Day Health Center in 1984 in Gardner and after that center opened, the adult day health care industry grew and became recognized as an intricate part of the health care delivery system," said Kathy Kilhart, RN, BSN, MS, Director of Elder Services at the GVNA. The center is certified by the Department of Medical Assistance.
Kilhart noted that the center is designed to meet the physical, functional and social needs of elderly and disabled adults who are unable to live independently. "The Center is able to provide for people with Alzheimer's or dementia and/or medical needs, as well as those people seeking socialization," she said.
"The benefit of having an adult day health center available to area residents is enormous," said Kilhart. The program provides its participants with an alternative to nursing home placement or social isolation; it provides working families with a stimulating environment for love ones who cannot be left alone; a friendly, therapeutic and safe environment; care and companionship; relief when caring for elderly or disabled family members who become difficult to manage; promotes and maintains independence. The center has a nurse and social worker available to answer any questions.
Kilhart added that anyone who is interested in visiting the new Greenfield Center, at a time that is convenient for them and their loved one, is more than welcome to call for an appointment. "A personalized visit gives us the opportunity to show participants and family members the benefits of sending your loved one to the Adult Day Health Center," she said. Some of the benefits include an increased personal safety with supportive supervision and top quality medical services, carefully planned daily exercise and activities that enhance health and happiness, a chance to make new friends, and assurance that health monitoring and personal care are the top priorities.
"With the support of the Center, you can balance your caregiving role with time to care for yourself, and have time for other obligations and interests," said Kilhart. "We cannot replace the care that only you can give, but we can certainly help relieve some of your stress," she added.
If you have any questions regarding the GVNA Adult Day Health Services in Greenfield, please call (800) 382-7305 prior to December 1st or (413) 774-2275 after the 1st.
November 22, 2011
Contact: Elaine T. Fluet
President & CEO
(978) 632-1230
GARDNER VNA ACHIEVES
OASIS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE DISTINCTION
The Gardner VNA was recently notified by the Fazzi Associates, a national consulting, benchmarking and research firm, that the Gardner VNA achieved an "OASIS Center of Excellence" distinction. The Gardner VNA is one of 4 agencies (the only agency in Massachusetts) recognized out of 310 agencies nation-wide. "This is a truly remarkable accomplishment for our clinicians," according to Elaine Fluet, President and CEO of the Gardner VNA. "In order to be honored with this distinction, our clinicians need to score 80% or higher on their OASIS competency test for three consecutive testing periods," said Fluet. "This is just another testament of the quality care our agency provides to the community," she said.
According to Fazzi Associates, agencies who achieve "OASIS Centers of Excellence" status are part of a small but distinguished group. "It is our way of awarding agencies who achieve OASIS excellence recognition for their hard work and efforts," said Fazzi.
In addition to receiving a certificate from Fazzi's OASIS Competency Institute, the Gardner VNA is recognized on the Fazzi website and in their publications and all OASIS Center of Excellence testing managers will be invited to join Fazzi's OASIS Competency Institute Review Panel.
If you have any questions regarding what cities and towns the Gardner VNA serves, please visit our website at www.gardnervna.org or give us a call at (978) 632-1230.
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November 2, 2011
Contact: Elaine T. Fluet
President & CEO
(978) 632-1230
GARDNER VNA RECEIVES DEFICIENCY
FREE STATUS FROM THE DEPARTMENT
OF PUBLIC HEALTH
The Gardner VNA was recently notified by the Department of Public Health (DPH) that the agency achieved a "deficiency" free status on a recent on-site survey. According to DPH, the Gardner VNA was found to be in full compliance with the Conditions of Participation for home health agencies.
Elaine Fluet, President & CEO of the Gardner VNA stated how proud she was to have a group of employees who are so dedicated to not only the mission of our agency, but also to the well-being of our community. "We take a great deal of pride in providing excellent care to the 24 cities and towns we serve," she said. "It is rewarding work to be able to help individuals stay independent in their homes as long as possible," she said.
If you have any questions regarding what cities and towns the Gardner VNA serves, please visit our website at www.gardnervna.org or give us a call at (978) 632-1230.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 28, 2011
Contact: Elaine Fluet
President & CEO
(978) 632-1230
GARDNER VNA RECEIVES
HOME CARE ACCREDITATION FROM
HOME CARE ALLIANCE OF MASSACHUSETTS
The Gardner VNA, a private-pay home care agency, is among a select group of agencies to earn Accreditation from the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts. The Alliance, which represents 190 home health and elder care agencies across Massachusetts, has created an accreditation protocol to promote quality services, ethical business standards, and superior employment practices in an industry that lacks meaningful licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts even while it grows in popularity.
"We are proud to promote these accreditation standards that convey the Gardner VNA's commitment to quality," according to Elaine Fluet, President and CEO. "The peace of mind of our clients is paramount and we are hopeful people will continue to see the advantages of keeping people independent in their homes and communities," she said.
The Home Care Alliance launched this Accreditation Program for private pay agencies (agencies that are not paid by Medicare and Medicaid), in July of 2010. Agencies seeking accreditation are required to submit documentation to show that they meet standards established by the Alliance.
Legislative Breakfast March 20, 2011
FREE STATUS FROM THE DEPARTMENT
photos by Latrice Cooper
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2011
Contact: Ann Racine
GARDNER VNA PRESENTS
"THE ART OF VISION"
TO BUSINESS LEADERS AND THEIR TEAMS
The Gardner VNA, in collaboration with our generous sponsors, is honored to bring Erik Wahl to the region, to challenge our thinking and unleash our potential. Erik will present "The Art of Vision" on Wednesday, May 18th at the Four Points Sheraton in Leominster, MA. "We are excited to bring this dynamic speaker to the area to share his unique perspective with our local leaders," said Elaine Fluet, President & CEO of the Gardner VNA.
Fluet noted that Erik is a nationally acclaimed speaker, who uses his gift of artistry and profound insights, to challenge the status quo and inspire individuals and companies to action. "He specializes in challenging organizations to utilize breakthrough thinking to achieve extraordinary results," she added. "I had the pleasure of witnessing this high energy presentation first-hand and knew we needed to bring him to the area to share his creative way of looking at business," she said.
"Using art as his vehicle, Erik challenges success strategies in a unique and entertaining way," said Fluet. "Unlearn the rules, break the boundaries, free the thought process, and rediscover your untapped potential is his powerful message through his art," she said.
According to Erik Wahl, "The Art of Vision" is a one-of-a-kind program designed to challenge organizations to discover their untapped potential. The format is fast-paced, entertaining, and full of surprises. "No matter what kind of organization-from small companies to large corporations-employees at all levels will better embrace the future by becoming more innovative, more productive and ultimately more profitable," he said.
Erik's sought after artwork can be seen hanging in executive offices around the world. And as one of the country's top platform speakers, he shares his powerful message with audiences from coast to coast. Fluet noted that a sample of companies and organizations that Erik has presented to include Walt Disney World, Raytheon, Press Ganey, Marriott, American College Healthcare Executives, American Nurses Association, National Institute for Case Management, Credit Union National Association, and National Association of Realtors.
Steering Committee members include Daniel M. Asquino, Ph.D., Mount Wachusett Community College, President; Norman J. Boudreau, IC Federal Credit Union, retired CEO; Elaine T. Fluet, Gardner VNA, President & CEO; James Garrison, Kirtland Capital Partners; Laura LaBrack, Gardner VNA, Marketing and Sales; M. Marcus Moran, Jr., W.E. Aubuchon Co. Inc, CEO; Ann M. Racine, Gardner VNA, Fund Development; and Tina M. Sbrega, GFA Federal Credit Union, CEO.
Lead sponsors include ACT Fastening Solutions, GFA Federal Credit Union, People's United Bank and W.E. Aubuchon Co., Inc. Major sponsors include an Anonymous Donor, Baystate Benefit Services, Inc., Bemis Associates, Broadview Assisted Living Community, Byram Healthcare, Enterprise Bank & Trust, Fidelity Bank, Heywood Hospital, Hometown Bank, Mr. James Garrison- Kirtland Capital Partners, Mount Wachusett Community College, Mutual of America and RCAP Solutions, Inc.. Donations include Boucher Funeral Home, Norman Wironen- Edward Jones, Protective Services, Inc., Wachusett Manor- Genesis Healthcare and Workers' Credit Union. Table sponsors include Family Federal Savings, Fitchburg State University, Four Points by Sheraton- Leominster, Georgia Pacific, HealthAlliance Hospital, Heritage Insurance Agency, Montuori Oil and Wachusett Mountain/Village Inn. "We are grateful for the support of our sponsors and applaud their dedication and commitment to making a difference for local businesses in our community," said Fluet.
Proceeds from this exceptional program will benefit the unmet needs of our homecare and hospice patients in the twenty-four communities that we serve. If your company would like to attend this dynamic event, please contact the Gardner VNA's Development Office at (978) 632-1230, Ext. 3024.
What other companies are saying about Erik Wahl...
"You kept our group of CEO's spellbound by your presentation. The most often repeated comment was, 'He was the best speaker I've ever heard.' "
- EOC, Inc.
"Over the past ten years, the Executive Officers Club has hired over 100 of the most respected speakers throughout corporate America. In all those years, I don't recall any speaker ever receiving the incredible accolades that you did. Your message was right on target."
- Executive Officers Club
"Erik Wahl was the highlight of our entire conference. He captured everyone's imagination with his creativity and added a whole new dimension to the usual motivational message, not to mention his artistic finale was a complete knockout!"
- American Express - Australia
Legislative Breakfast March 20, 2011 video coming soon.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 15, 2011
Contact: Kathy Kilhart
Gardner VNA, Elder Services Director
GARDNER VNA VOICES CONCERN OVER THE
WITHDRAWAL OF SUPPORT FOR
COMMUNITY BASED ELDER CARE THAT
WILL COST THE STATE MILLIONS
The Gardner VNA voices concern about the consequences of Governor Deval Patrick's proposed state budget cuts and the impact on their Adult Day Health Programs. State Secretary JudyAnn Bigby of Health & Human Services announced that the 2012 budget would eliminate 70% of adult day health program spending and services. The new budget maintains services for individuals in adult day health care programs who are deemed 'complex care', while eliminating services to those categorized as 'basic care'," according to Elaine Fluet, CEO.
Fluet noted that all MassHealth individuals served in adult day health programs across the state are frail and vulnerable, whether or not they are categorized as Basic or Complex Care. "They all suffer from a combination of physical and cognitive impairments, which require daily nursing care, assistance with activities of daily living and chronic disease management," she said.
The Gardner VNA currently runs three Adult Day Health Centers in Gardner, Fitchburg and Athol. "These cuts would be devastating to the 200 plus clients who participate in the Adult Day Health programs in these three communities," said Fluet. "Our Centers provide participants with the benefits of increased personal safety with supportive supervision, top quality medical services, carefully planned daily exercise and activities that enhance health and happiness, a chance to make new friends, and assurance that health monitoring and personal care are the top priorities," she said. Fluet also noted the importance of this program for caregivers. "Families are able to balance their caregiving role with time to care for themselves, as well as have time for other obligations and interests," she said.
These changes would greatly affect the 200 clients who attend the Adult Day Health programs of the Gardner VNA, potentially driving more people into nursing homes and hospitals. Any cost savings in the new budget will be offset by additional cost of nursing home care, increased use of emergency rooms across the state and preventable hospital stays for many of these individuals.
Across the State these cuts will:
- Cause more than 11,000 frail elders and disabled adults to lose desperately needed medical care
- Cause 2,500 program employees to lose jobs
- 47% of all Adult Day Health Program patients are currently eligible for nursing home care. Without Adult Day Health Programs, many of these individuals would end up in nursing homes. If only 20% were transferred to nursing homes, it would result in a cost increase of close to $99M.
- Create an immeasurable cost to caregivers and families who depend on these programs so they can go to work or care for small children.
According to Darcey Adams, President of the Massachusetts Adult Day Services Association (MADSA), which represents most of the 140 adult day health programs across the Commonwealth, proposed an alternative cost savings plan to Medicaid months ago: a moratorium on any new MassHealth Adult Day Health providers and program expansion. This would result in saving the state $11M initially, and twice that each year thereafter. To date, Medicaid Director, Terry Dougherty, has chosen to ignore this proposal. The glaring question is why would the state spend more money to bring new programs into the system when it cannot afford to maintain existing programs?
Adams added, when California proposed a drastic cut to adult day health programs, it was ultimately withdrawn when research presented by The Lewin Group demonstrated that instead of saving the state money it would result in tens of millions more in additional costs if Adult Day Health Programs were shuttered.
For more information on how to advocate for the Adult Day Health Programs, please call (978) 632-1230, Ext. 3047 or visit us at www.gardnervna.org.
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GARDNER VNA HOSTED CELTIC NIGHT FEATURING ENTER THE HAGGIS!
The Gardner VNA hosted a Celtic Night on Friday, December 3rd Wachusett Mountain. The evening kicked off with Boston's own John Connors and the Irish Express, who delighted the crowd with old favorite Irish songs. It was a great prelude to the feature band-- Celtic rock band, Enter the Haggis. Nearly 400 people attended the event raising over $14,000 for the Gardner VNA. Thanks to everyone who supported the event!!
SENATOR STEPHEN BREWER PAYS A HOME VIST FOR NATIONAL HOMECARE MONTH
On Wednesday, November 17th, Senator Stephen Brewer accompanied Homecare Nurse Supervisor, Pam Saulnier, on a home visit in recognition of November as National Homecare Month. "It was wonderful to have an elected official participate in a home visit to see first hand how important home medical services are to our community," said Saulnier. "Senator Brewer was so gracious with our patient and took the time to listen to how the Gardner VNA has helped him in his recovery," she said. "It was rewarding for me, as a nurse, to hear Senator Brewer say how we are the angels out there taking care of patients and how much he appreciated all of our efforts," she added.
Pictured above (from left to right) are Paul Sawyer of Winchendon and Senator Stephen Brewer.
Elaine Fluet, CEO of the Gardner VNA, recently received notification of being awarded the Worcester Business Journal's 2nd Annual 2010 Women in Business Award. This award is given to remarkable women who are making their mark on the Central Massachusetts business community. Elaine was one of 6 honored out of many nominated. According to Board Chairman, Debbie Orre, it really didn't surprise anyone that her leadership has been noticed and awarded. "We all know how tirelessly Elaine works on the agency's behalf and how innovative a leader she is, which has enabled the Gardner VNA to remain a strong and financially solvent agency," said Orre. Fluet will be featured in an article in the Worcester Business Journal on November 8 and will receive her award at a luncheon in Worcester on November 19.
"Elaine started her career with the Gardner VNA in 1985 and ultimately became the Chief Executive Officer in 2004," said Orre. "Under her leadership, the Gardner VNA has become an 8.8 million dollar operation with a solid financial future," she said. "Her leadership has resulted in stability when many healthcare organizations are reeling," she added. "As a tribute to Elaine's management, the Gardner VNA was recently awarded the Patient Satisfaction Award of Distinction, placing the agency in the top twenty percent of high performing Medicare Certified agencies in the country," said Orre.
"Elaine's love of nursing makes her a compassionate mentor who instills confidence in those she guides," she said. "She opened up the agency to preceptor programs with Fitchburg State University and Mount Wachusett Community College to attract women and men to the profession and support them through their learning process and any challenges they may encounter, " she said.
For more information about the Gardner VNA and our services, please contact us, or for more immediate assistance, call 978-632-1230