For Immediate Release: February 5, 2024
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL Honors Delegate Mark Sickles as Legislative Champion

Legislator Recognized for His Leadership and Advocacy for Nursing Homes and Their Residents

RICHMOND, VA – During its recent Legislative Conference, the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL) honored Delegate Mark Sickles as its 2024 Legislative Champion. Sickles, who is the current chairman of the House of Delegates’ Health and Human Services Committee, has been a consistent supporter of nursing homes and the tens of thousands of Virginians who rely upon Medicaid program benefits for their long term care needs.

“Chairman Sickles has been a tremendous advocate for nursing home residents and long term care providers during his service in the General Assembly. Under his leadership, Virginia has made and continues to make important investments in Medicaid, which benefit so many seniors,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL. “We are grateful for his leadership and partnership with Virginia’s nursing homes to provide critical support and high quality care to residents,” Hare added.

VHCA-VCAL President and CEO Keith Hare and VHCA-VCAL Chair and Chief Operating Officer of Saber Healthcare Group, LLC Karen Stanfield present Del. Sickles with the VHCA-VCAL Legislative Champion Award.

 

Del. Sickles has a long track record of introducing and supporting legislation and budget amendments that have been critical to Virginia’s nursing homes and assisted living communities. He prioritized funding for nursing homes during the pandemic so facilities could obtain testing and infection control supplies, personal protective equipment, and staffing support so facilities could care for residents during this critical time.

VHCA-VCAL presented Del. Sickles with the award on January 31, 2024 as part of the association’s annual Legislative Conference held in Richmond during the General Assembly session.


For Release: October 31, 2023
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Survey: Long Term Care Workforce Challenges Persist

Nearly half of facilities have limited admissions due to vacancies, reducing access to care for individuals who need nursing home level care.

 Virtually all facilities are struggling to find enough qualified caregivers.

Click here to view the survey results.

Richmond, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), representing over 350 long term care providers in Virginia, released results of a new survey of nursing home and assisted living facilities across the Commonwealth. Results from the survey show the on-going struggle facing these providers as they work to find more caregivers for residents and patients.

The workforce situation is raising access to care issues as nearly half (44%) of nursing homes have had to limit their admissions for lack of staff. Facilities are struggling to find new caregivers, despite significant hiring efforts.

Key findings impacting access to care include:

  • 44% of facilities placed a hold on new admissions at least once since June 1.
  • 94%, asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts to care for residents/patients.
  • 78% face shortages filling shifts.
  • 39% maintain a waiting list for new admissions.
  • Use of costly agency staffing remains the norm for the majority of facilities (54%).

 

Interested and qualified candidates are desperately needed. Workforce specific findings found that:

  • 91% of facilities had CNA vacancies
  • 81% have LPN vacancies
  • 64% have RN vacancies
  • 31% have few to no applicants for vacant positions

 

“For three years, workforce issues have been the most persistent and significant challenge facing Virginia’s long term care providers. Virginia made significant investments in this care during the pandemic, and yet the flattened funding this year in the Medicaid program does not cover the expenses of providing 24/7 care for residents,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL.

VHCA-VCAL’s members operate over 97% of Virginia’s Medicaid nursing facility beds and nearly seven in ten individuals in nursing facilities rely on Medicaid for their care. As a health care provider that relies almost entirely on government reimbursement (Medicaid and Medicare), nursing homes cannot address their workforce issues on their own.

“Virginia’s seniors deserve the reassurance that they can access excellent nursing care when the need arises. To make good on that promise, Virginia needs to make continued investments in Medicaid nursing home care and couple that with concrete, actionable efforts to attract and develop the clinical staff needed to care for residents,” Hare added.

A link to a pdf version of the survey results can be found here. The survey was conducted from September 11-October 6, 2023 and includes responses from 170 long term care facilities in Virginia.


For Immediate Release: October 2, 2023
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

18 Receive Scholarships to Work in Long Term Care from Virginia Health Care Association Foundation

RICHMOND, VA – Eighteen Virginians who want to advance their health care education to work in long term care received scholarships from the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living’s (VHCA-VCAL) Commonwealth Long Term Care Foundation. Each recipient will receive $2,000 toward the cost of his or her nursing education. To receive the scholarship, recipients completed an extensive application, were personally interviewed by a member of the foundation’s nurse scholarship committee, and committed to work in a long term care facility for one year after graduation. 

“The outpouring of interest in working in long term care among the scholarship recipients is inspiring, said Cindy Barnette, chair of the VHCA-VCAL nursing scholarship committee and chief clinical officer of Commonwealth Care of Roanoke. “All of our 2023 scholarship recipients are to be commended for their dedication to caring for others.”

“The demand for nurses in long term care has never been greater. We are thrilled that we can offer the Regirer Nursing Scholarships to individuals who want to advance their skills to provide the skilled, quality care the residents of Virginia’s nursing and assisted living facilities deserve,” said Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL president and CEO.

The 2023 Regirer Nursing Scholarship recipients are:

  • Jemima Andoh | Birmingham Green
  • Teresa Brundage | Mountain View Nursing Home
  • Dilsia Caballero | Birmingham Green
  • Cynthia Conner | Clarksville Health and Rehabilitation
  • Angela Crawford | Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU
  • Esther Darko | George Washington Health & Rehabilitation
  • Arielle Groomes | Louisa Health & Rehabilitation Center
  • Nancy Khan | Our Lady of Peace
  • Rebecca Nakotey | Birmingham Green
  • Doreen Nimako | Willow Oaks Assisted Living
  • Shunda Plunkett | Chatham Health & Rehabilitation Center
  • Yvonne Summy | Mountain View Nursing Home
  • Keitumetse Thomas | Birmingham Green
  • Latina Thomas | Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU
  • Tara Tucker | Sitter & Barfoot Veterans Care Center
  • Rhonda Winston | The Virginia Home
  • Pamela Yankey | Canterbury Rehabilitation & Healthcare
  • Nakita Yuille | Heritage Hall – Brookneal

 

The Commonwealth Long Term Care Foundation has a long history of offering scholarships to advance the skills needed for those interested in working in the long term care profession. Since its inception in 1997, it has awarded Regirer Nursing Scholarships totaling $900,725 to 593 scholarship recipients.

The scholarships are named for Walter and Maria Teresa Regirer, members and leaders of VHCA-VCAL who led efforts to improve access to long term care education for career professionals. The Regirer Nursing Scholarship Program is designed to promote and support quality of care and to enhance the educational level of nurses currently working in VHCA-VCAL member facilities.


For Immediate Release: September 22, 2023
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL Officers and Board Members Elected at Annual Meeting

New Slate of Officers Includes Saber Healthcare Group COO Karen Stanfield, Virginia Health Services President & CEO Mark Klyczek, and CCR Regional VP of Operations Wendy Walter

RICHMOND, VA – During its recent annual convention, members of the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL) elected new officers and directors.

Karen Stanfield of Saber Healthcare Group was unanimously elected to serve as chairman of the 18 member board of directors. The board is comprised 18 leaders of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities from across Virginia and tasked with leading the legislative and regulatory advocacy initiatives for the association.

“With extensive leadership experience in the sector, Karen Stanfield is well positioned to lead VHCA-VCAL efforts to tackle tough issues like staffing and Medicaid funding to ensure all seniors get the quality care they deserve,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL. “She and the entirety of the VHCA-VCAL board of directors are ready to strengthen the long term care profession and build on our recent successes to best serve those in our care. ”

The individuals elected to serve as officers for a one year term beginning January 1, 2024 are:

  • Karen Stanfield, chief operating officer of Saber Healthcare Group, LLC, is the new chairman of the board. She has served in her current role with Saber since 2011 providing operational guidance and support to 144 skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities in six states. From 2009-2011 she was Saber’s regional vice president of operations. A registered nurse and licensed nursing home administrator, Stanfield began working in long term care in 1987 and took on clinical and operational roles of increasing responsibility with the former Beverly Health Care and Golden Living. In addition to her active involvement in VHCA-VCAL and its committees, she served two terms on the Virginia Board of Long Term Care Administrators for eight years, including as chair from 2014-2016. She is a current member of the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) Future Leaders in Long Term Care cohort.
  • Mark Klyczek, president and CEO of Virginia Health Services, Inc. (VHS), was elected vice chairman of the board. Klyczek joined VHS in 2020. Prior to moving to Virginia, he spent 25 years working in health systems in upstate New York serving in roles within long term care, home care, oncology, hospital administration and physician practice management. He is a fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives and has served on various boards for community organizations and has been a member of various committees for hospital and nursing home associations, in addition to speaking nationally at conferences. He graduated from D’Youville College with a master in science degree in health services administration, and Canisius College with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and a certificate in gerontology.
  • Wendy Walter, regional director of operations for Commonwealth Care of Roanoke (CCR), was elected secretary/treasurer of the board. Walter joined the CCR team in 2012 bringing with her over 20 years of experience in long term care administration. She obtained her license as a nursing home administrator in 1996 and held various positions with one of Virginia’s largest providers and a health system where she demonstrated success with operational results, regulatory compliance, and quality. She has led her teams to earn prestigious AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards based on the Baldrige Performance Excellence Framework. She also serves as a senior examiner for the AHCA National Quality Award Program and often provides education to providers in Virginia on quality and regulatory topics.

The following individuals were elected to two-year terms on the VHCA-VCAL board of directors which begin January 1, 2024:

 Proprietary Directors

  • Craig Neiswanger | Chief Operating Officer | Vita/Medical Facilities of America
  • David Rubenstein | President & CEO | Trio Healthcare

 At Large Director

  • Brad Dalton | Chief Operating Officer | American HealthCare, LLC

Not-For-Profit Directors

  • Karen Wilhelm | Vice President of Patient Services | Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital
    Denise Chadwick-Wright | Chief Executive Officer | Birmingham Green

For Immediate Release: March 6, 2023
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL’s April Payne Honored with a McKnight’s Women of Distinction Award

Richmond, VA – April Payne, MBA, LNHA, Chief Quality & Regulatory Affairs Officer and Executive Director of VCAL of Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), has been inducted into the Hall of Honor in the McKnight’s Women of Distinction awards. The award program honors women who have made a significant impact on their organization and the long term care sector. Payne is among only 20 inductees across the country.

“I am beyond honored and humbled to be recognized for this award,” said Payne. “You work every day for change and to make an impact, but it is unexpected to be honored in this way.”

April is a clinical and operational expert with more than 20 years of experience in long term care. She is responsible for VHCA-VCAL’s quality improvement initiatives and provides extensive support to members in dealing with regulatory, compliance, and clinical issues. Payne is recognized by state health agency leaders, legislators, and other stakeholders as a leading advocate for long term care providers in Virginia. She had a tremendous impact on how providers in Virginia managed COVID. She worked tirelessly to relay information on changing regulatory requirements to them in real-time and was instrumental in helping the state pivot to provide support to LTC providers as ground zero.

Prior to joining VHCA-VCAL, Payne was the vice president of operations and assisted living services/administrator for a life care community in Richmond for six years. She began her career in long term care nursing and administration as an LPN in Manassas. She earned her bachelor of science in health systems management with a concentration in assisted living administration from George Mason University. In 2020 she earned her MBA from Virginia Commonwealth University.

The McKnight’s Women of Distinction awards program is in its fifth year. Hall of Honor inductees are senior-level professionals in the C-suite or at a level equivalent to vice president or higher. Nominations were judged by an external panel of industry experts. All winners will be honored at a May 22 celebration in Chicago.


For Immediate Release: February 9, 2023
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL Awarded Grant to Support Emergency Preparedness Efforts in Virginia’s Nursing Facilities and Assisted Living Communities

Richmond, VA – Thanks to $290,000 in grant funding from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL) is embarking on a project to build an emergency preparedness infrastructure to support the Commonwealth’s long term care providers. The project goal is to improve the overall readiness and resiliency posture of the nursing facilities and assisted living communities in Virginia.

VHCA-VCAL’s project is part of the VDH’s Virginia Long Term Care Infrastructure Pilot Project (VLIPP) program. VHCA-VCAL will be working with nursing facilities and assisted living facilities to help them  identify their emergency preparedness risks and vulnerabilities and to follow on with information and resources specific to these provider types to aid them in addressing the identified and emerging challenges and vulnerabilities.

“We are very excited about this project and the chance to build on lessons learned from the pandemic and other emergencies to help facilities identify their needs to respond appropriately. We also appreciate that Virginia has identified the need to proactively include long term care providers in its emergency preparedness infrastructure,” said April Payne, VHCA-VCAL chief quality and regulatory affairs officer. Payne serves as project lead for the association.

This effort is open to all licensed nursing facilities and assisted living facilities in Virginia. To facilitate the project, VHCA-VCAL is partnering with Jensen Hughes, a worldwide leader in professional engineering and consulting services with experience in security risk consulting and emergency management. The project will be implemented in 2023 with the opportunity for a one-year renewal.

VHCA-VCAL is one of nine organizations awarded part of $9.9 million in funds to assist with ongoing COVID-19 response in nursing and long term care facilities as part of the Virginia Department of Health’s VLIPP Projects program, which is being funded by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.


For Immediate Release: December 14, 2022
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

7,500 Jobs Lost in the Nursing Home Workforce since February 2020

October data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows Virginia’s nursing homes and other residential care facilities are still grappling with the effects of losing over 7,500 employees since February 2020. These losses wipe over a decade of growth in employment by these providers.

This data mirrors the results of a recent survey conducted by the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), which shows nearly every Virginia nursing home and assisted living community continues to face severe workforce challenges.

According to the survey findings, in the past 60 days, virtually all facilities, 96%, asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts. Alarmingly, 82% had a shortage of all staff to fill shifts. Compared to 2021 survey data, an increasing percentage of facilities have placed a hold on new admissions or turned away individuals looking for nursing home care after being in the hospital. This staffing crisis is affecting access to care for Virginia seniors.

When asked about their current staffing situation, 55% indicated there were few to no applicants to fill their needs for additional staff; 23% were concerned that they were beginning to have numerous open shifts.

Nursing homes cannot address their staffing challenges on their own. Improving funding of Medicaid nursing care must be part of the solution because Medicaid covers the cost of care for six in ten nursing home residents. With proper funding, we can offer frontline caregivers more competitive wages and benefits. Additional long-range steps are also needed to increase the pipeline of nurses and nurse aides.

Virginia must make continued investments in the long term care workforce and give providers the resources they need to attract and retain staff. A strong workforce will help ensure current and future long term care residents have access to the high-quality care they deserve.


For Immediate Release: December 7, 2022
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Survey: Virginia Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Communities Facing Continuing Workforce Crisis

86 percent of Virginia’s long term care facilities said their workforce situation has gotten worse in 2022. 96 percent have asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts in the last 60 days.

Click here to view the survey results.

 Richmond, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), representing over 350 nursing homes and long term care facilities in Virginia, released results of a survey of nursing home and assisted living providers across the Commonwealth. Results from the survey highlight the continuing pressures these providers face finding caregivers for their residents and patients.

Key findings include:

  • 86% of Virginia’s long term care providers said their workforce situation has gotten worse in 2022 compared to 2021. This is 5 points higher than responses to the same question in 2021.
  • In the past 60 days, virtually all facilities, 96%, asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts.
  • Compared to 2021:
    • Staff are working more overtime to care for residents/patients.
    • 4 out of 5 facilities have faced shortages in filling shifts.
    • Facilities are still relying on a significant amount of agency staffing.
  • When asked about their current staffing situation, 55% indicated there were few to no applicants to fill their needs for additional staff; 23% were concerned that they were beginning to have numerous open shifts.
  • This staffing crisis is having an impact on access to care for our seniors, which has worsened in the last year. Over the last six months:
    • 42% of facilities have limited the number of residents in their care to an amount below their capacity because they are unable to staff.
    • 38% of facilities placed a hold on new admissions.
    • 34% turned away hospital admissions.
  • Facilities have vacancies in critical positions or are actively recruiting to fill open positions:
    • 93% of facilities have vacancies for CNAs;
    • 87% have vacancies for LPNs; and
    • 70% have vacancies for RNs; and
    • 67% have vacancies for dietary staff.

“The survey shows that workforce issues continue to be the most significant challenge facing Virginia’s long term care providers. While Virginia has made investments in nursing homes in recent years, the Medicaid program still does not cover the expenses of providing 24/7 care for residents,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL.

VHCA-VCAL’s members operate over 97% of Virginia’s Medicaid nursing facility beds and six in ten nursing facility residents rely on Medicaid for their care. As a health care provider that relies almost entirely on government reimbursement (Medicaid and Medicare), nursing homes cannot address their workforce issues on their own.

“Virginia’s nursing homes are doing everything they can to keep their employees, who are the backbone of long term care. Now we’re calling upon Virginia policymakers and members of the General Assembly to make meaningful investments, which will help address key staffing challenges and get seniors access to the 24/7 care they need,” Hare added.

A link to a pdf version of the survey results can be found here. The survey was conducted from September 7-30, 2022 and includes responses from 154 long term care facilities in Virginia.


For Immediate Release: February 2, 2022
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Severe Nursing Home Workforce Shortage Persists

December 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) (latest data available) shows Virginia’s nursing homes and other residential care facilities continue to suffer from a persistent workforce shortage. These providers have still not seen recovery in the over 9,100 employees lost since February 2020. This equates to an 11.6% loss of the workforce.

The BLS data mirrors the results of a survey conducted by the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), which shows nearly every Virginia nursing home and assisted living community is facing a workforce crisis

Nursing homes in Virginia are struggling to find caregivers. There has been an exodus of health care staff in nursing homes as the pressures of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic linger. Despite their best efforts to recruit, 59% of facilities have reported they are received few to no applicants to fill their staffing needs.

Meanwhile, the state is considering legislation to mandate unattainable staffing levels. This will set up Virginia’s nursing homes and the seniors who rely on them for 24/7 care for failure.

Without addressing the chronic underfunding of Medicaid nursing care, nursing homes cannot address their staffing challenge on their own. Rather than mandating additional staff, Medicaid reimbursement should recognize the current costs of care, a large part of which is related to staffing. By design, these costs are not fully reflected in Medicaid payment rates. This is significant because the Medicaid program covers the cost of care for six in ten Medicaid residents. Additional long-range steps are also needed to increase the pipeline of nurses and nurse aides.


For Immediate Release: November 5, 2021
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Nursing Home Staff Losses Top 9,500 since February 2020

September data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows Virginia’s nursing homes and other residential care facilities have lost 9,592 employees since February 2020. These losses wipe out over a decade of growth in employment by these providers.

This data mirrors the results of a recent survey conducted by the Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), which shows nearly every Virginia nursing home and assisted living community is facing a workforce crisis

According to the survey findings, in the past 60 days, virtually all facilities, 92%, asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts. Alarmingly, 75% had a shortage of all staff to fill shifts. Two-thirds of facilities have turned to expensive agency staff to fill shifts.

When asked about their current staffing situation, 59% indicated there were few to no applicants to fill their needs for additional staff; 29% were concerned that they were beginning to have numerous open shifts.

Without addressing the chronic underfunding of Medicaid nursing care, nursing homes cannot address their staffing challenge on their own. Solutions must recognize the increased costs of staff, which are not currently reflected in the Medicaid rates, which covers the cost of care for six in ten Medicaid residents. Additional long-range steps are also needed to increase the pipeline of nurses and nurse aides.

Virginia lawmakers cannot miss this opportunity to invest in the long term care workforce and give providers the resources they need to attract and retain staff. A strong workforce will help ensure current and future long term care residents have access to the high-quality care they deserve.

 


For Immediate Release: October 21, 2021
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Survey: Nearly Every Virginia Nursing Home and Assisted Living Community Is Facing a Workforce Crisis

81 percent of Virginia’s long term care facilities said their workforce situation has gotten worse in 2021.  92 percent have asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts in the last 60 days.

Click here to view the survey results.

Richmond, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), representing nearly 350 nursing homes and long term care facilities in Virginia, released results of a survey of nursing home and assisted living providers across the Commonwealth. Results from the survey highlight an urgent need for Virginia policymakers and legislators to address the labor shortage facing the long term care (LTC) industry.

Key findings include:

  • 81% of Virginia’s long term care providers said their workforce situation has gotten worse in 2021 compared to 2020, which was the height of the clinical nightmare of the COVID-19 pandemic for them.
  • In the past 60 days, virtually all facilities, 92%, asked staff to work overtime or take extra shifts. Alarmingly, 75% had a shortage of all staff to fill shifts. Two-thirds of facilities have turned to expensive agency staff to fill shifts.
  • When asked about their current staffing situation, 59% indicated there were few to no applicants to fill their needs for additional staff; 29% were concerned that they were beginning to have numerous open shifts.
  • This staffing crisis is having an impact on access to care for our seniors. Over the last six months:
    • 37% of facilities have limited the number of residents in their care to an amount below their capacity because they are unable to staff.
    • Three in 10 facilities (29%) placed a hold on new admissions.
    • More than one-quarter (26%) turned away hospital admissions.
  • Facilities have vacancies in critical positions or are actively recruiting to fill open positions:
    • 96% of facilities have vacancies for CNAs;
    • 92% have vacancies for LPNs; and
    • 75% have vacancies for RNs; and
    • 66% have vacancies for dietary staff.
  • When asked to rank steps that would help them improve their ability to recruit and retain staff, an overwhelming 64% cited higher reimbursement to offer better pay and benefits as the best way to retain staff, with the next highest only garnering less than 14 percent from respondents.

“The survey demonstrates the severe workforce challenges facing Virginia’s long term care providers. Too many facilities are struggling to hire and retain staff that are needed to serve tens of thousands of vulnerable residents,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL. “If nursing care is important to Virginia and the seniors who need it, it is well past time for Virginia to invest in it, ” he added.

VHCA-VCAL’s members operate over 97% of Virginia’s Medicaid nursing facility beds and six in ten nursing facility residents rely on Medicaid for their care. As a health care provider that relies almost entirely on government reimbursement (Medicaid and Medicare), nursing homes cannot address their workforce issues on their own.

“To be clear, Virginia’s nursing homes are doing everything they can to keep their employees, who are the backbone of long term care. Now we’re calling upon Virginia policymakers and members of the General Assembly to make meaningful investments, which will help address key staffing challenges and get seniors access to the 24/7 care they need.”

A link to a pdf version of the survey results can be found here. The survey was conducted from September 13 to October 1 and includes responses from 199 long term care facilities in Virginia.


For Immediate Release: October 5, 2021
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

VHCA-VCAL Statement on the Joint Commission on Health Care Report on Workforce Challenges in Virginia’s Nursing Homes

Richmond, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), representing nearly 350 nursing homes and long term care facilities in Virginia, released the following statement on the Virginia Joint Commission on Health Care report on workforce challenges in Virginia’s nursing homes.

The following statement is attributable to Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL:

We appreciate that the Joint Commission on Health Care recognizes the need for a multifaceted approach to the complex issue of nursing home staffing and quality. This report represents the continuation of an important conversation about how we provide high quality care to Virginia seniors who rely on nursing home level care.

Virginia’s nursing homes are facing severe workforce shortage. Years in the making, the current staffing crisis has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Too many facilities are struggling to hire and retain staff that are needed to care for their residents.

Meaningful investments in the Medicaid program can help address key staffing challenges and ensure 24/7 access to care for many seniors. It is essential for Virginia to better fund nursing level care covered by the Medicaid program.

Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, chronic Medicaid underfunding left nursing homes struggling to compete for qualified, dedicated caregivers. With roughly 70 percent of expenses going to labor, this underfunding makes it challenging for providers to invest in their workforce.

VHCA-VCAL looks forward to our ongoing partnership with legislators and policymakers to find solutions to provide seniors the care their deserve and to bolster the frontline workers in nursing homes who have given it their all during the pandemic to care for their residents.


For Immediate Release: May 13, 2021
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam Honors Residents and Staff during Virginia Skilled Nursing Care Week

 Expresses thanks for the dedication of caregivers in the Commonwealth’s nursing homes

May 13, 2021, Richmond, VA – Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam issued a special proclamation recognizing Virginia Skilled Nursing Care Week, May 9-15, 2021. Governor Northam recognized the dedication and sacrifice caregivers in Virginia’s skilled nursing homes have shown their residents and patients during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The proclamation notes that, “the Commonwealth is thankful for the dedicated workers in these facilities for the heroic contributions they make everyday to the wellbeing of the residents and families they serve.”

During this special week, Virginia’s skilled nursing facilities are celebrating the commitment of their staff in providing compassionate care to their residents during this unprecedented time.

“We are incredibly grateful that as we work to recover from the pandemic, our nursing facilities are able to celebrate safely with our incredible residents, their loved ones, and staff this week,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL. “Virginia Skilled Nursing Care Week is extra special this year as we honor the unparalleled commitment and resiliency of our heroic staff and the special bonds shared with our residents and their families.”

Click here to see the official proclamation.

About NSNCW

Created by the American Health Care Association (AHCA) in 1967, National Skilled Nursing Care Week, formerly known as National Nursing Home Week, provides an opportunity for residents and their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and surrounding communities to honor the role of skilled nursing care centers in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. The theme for this year’s national observance is “Together Through the Seasons.” For more information on National Skilled Nursing Care Week, visit www.ahcancal.org/NSNCW.


For Immediate Release: February 12, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

More than 157,000 Vaccinated at Virginia Long Term Care Facilities

 Pharmacy Partnership Praised for Bringing the Vaccine to Those Most Affected by COVID-19

Richmond, VA – Long term care (LTC) facilities have been the site for thousands of vaccine clinics for residents and staff most affected by COVID-19. Through the federal Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care, CVS and Walgreens have successfully administered 157,616 doses of the vaccine at Virginia nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL president and CEO said, “The smooth coordination of the vaccine clinics at Virginia’s nursing homes and assisted living facilities over the past six weeks has been amazing to watch.” LTC facilities across the Commonwealth have hailed the arrival of the vaccine as an important step in combatting COVID-19. The vast majority of LTC facilities in Virginia have completed their second of three vaccine clinics; some have even completed their third-round events.

“VHCA-VCAL members are immensely grateful for the support of the federal government, the Northam administration, the Virginia Department of Health, CVS, and Walgreens in prioritizing long term care residents and staff to receive the vaccine. This coordinated effort will save lives,” Hare added. The partnership has allowed providers to focus on providing care to their residents and patients while the pharmacies took care of handling of the vaccine and reporting obligations.

According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report of the early vaccination coverage at skilled nursing facilities, staff uptake of the vaccine in Virginia exceeded the national average. CDC reported that in Virginia 40-59 percent of skilled nursing facility staff received the first dose of the vaccine in January. The national median for staff was 37.5 percent. It is also encouraging to note that VHCA-VCAL member facilities are seeing higher uptake at subsequent clinics with increased peer-to-peer conversations supporting vaccination.

Although the vaccines offer a new line of defense, community spread and new strains continue to be a major threat to LTC facilities. Residents and staff must continue to be a priority of vaccine distributions, as well as funding and availability of and essential resources, such as personal protective equipment (PPE), testing and staff support. Continued precautions like wearing masks and maintaining social distance are also critical.

The first vaccination clinics for nursing home residents and staff in Virginia began on December 28, 2020; clinics at Virginia assisted living facilities followed with first clinics on January 11, 2021. Vaccines are being distributed and administered through the federal Pharmacy Partnership Program for Long Term Care Facilities by CVS and Walgreens. The program was designed to offer each long term care facility three clinics to administer the vaccine. Upon conclusion of the formal partnership, LTC facilities will work with their contracted long term care pharmacies to vaccinate any new staff or residents/patients as needed.


For Immediate Release: January 27, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Vaccination Clinics at Virginia Long Term Care Facilities on Pace

Pharmacy Partnership Providing Three Vaccine Clinics for Each Facility

Richmond, VA – Long term care residents and staff at Virginia’s long term care facilities are welcoming the coronavirus vaccine to help limit the spread of the virus in facilities. The first of three rounds of COVID-19 vaccination clinics held Virginia nursing homes have been completed with exceptions only for facilities currently experiencing outbreaks. Clinics for assisted living facilities are well underway. These vaccination events have hailed long term care facilities across the Commonwealth and an important step in combatting COVID-19.

Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL president and CEO, said, “As we get long term care staff and residents vaccinated, we can save lives. While we have entered a more hopeful time in battling the virus, the fight is not over yet. Community spread means we must remain vigilant and continue to take the important precautions like wearing masks and maintaining social distance, and prioritizing long term care for critical resources like personal protective equipment (PPE), testing, and staff support.”

“What is great is we literally do get more than one shot at this,” adds Hare. The pharmacy partnership program with CVS and Walgreens has always been designed to offer each long term care facility three clinics to administer the vaccine. If someone was not ready to get the vaccine at the first clinic or is a new hire or a new resident/patient at a facility, there will be two more clinics when they can get their doses of the vaccine. Many of the second clinics are already completed or scheduled for Virginia nursing homes.

Uptake of the vaccine in nursing homes seems to be mirroring the general public’s reaction: excitement mixed with hesitation about the vaccine’s development and safety. What is promising is that facilities are seeing a measurable increased uptake in the vaccination rate of staff at second round clinics.

The first vaccination clinics for nursing home residents and staff in Virginia were held on December 28, 2020. Vaccines are being distributed and administered through the Pharmacy Partnership Program for Long Term Care Facilities by CVS and Walgreens. VHCA-VCAL members are grateful to these pharmacies for their efforts to help protect their residents/patients and staff. “We are also thankful that Gov. Ralph Northam, the Virginia Department of Health, and the General Assembly continue show a strong commitment to prioritizing vaccination for the 1a population of long term care facility residents and staff,” said Hare.

Educating staff, residents, and family members about the importance of vaccines and the vaccine itself is critical. It is also important that we give staff, residents, and families the opportunity to ask their questions and hear their concerns. We are hopeful that through ongoing education, individuals in long term care will find the information from the FDA and CDC that will reassure them about the safety and efficacy of this vaccine.

VHCA-VCAL is also promoting the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living #GetVaccinated campaign, a nationwide effort to encourage all long term care residents, families, and staff members to consent to getting vaccinated and provide educational materials to help them make an informed decision.


For Immediate Release: January 12, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

What They Are Saying about COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics in Virginia Nursing Homes

Richmond, VA – The first nursing home vaccination clinics for nursing home residents and staff in Virginia were held on December 28, 2020 and are continuing. Vaccines are being distributed and administered through the Pharmacy Partnership Program for Long Term Care Facilities by CVS and Walgreens.

VHCA-VCAL is pleased to share images and statements from long term care staff receiving their COVID-19 vaccine across Virginia, as well as media coverage of vaccine distribution to long term care facilities.

Educating staff, residents and family members about the importance of vaccines and the vaccine itself is critical.

Tommy East, president/CEO of Heritage Hall Healthcare says, “It’s important for us as leaders to get the vaccine to show that we would not ask our team members to do something that we would not do ourselves. While this is not mandatory for our employees, I feel we owe it to our residents, colleagues, friends and families to get the vaccine so that we unknowingly do not spread it to them and hopefully put an end to this pandemic so that we can get back to some form of normalcy in our life.” 

Karen Stanfield, chief operating officer of Saber Healthcare, explains why she and her company are encouraging all staff that interact with residents to take the COVID-19 vaccine: “COVID has changed the way our residents live. I want them to go to the dining room to eat and socialize with their friends. I want them to visit with their families in person.”

Stanfield and other company leaders recently received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Eileen Caldwell at Heritage Hall – Leesburg works on the nursing home’s COVID-19 unit. The 79 year old nurse was first in line to receive the vaccine there on January 7.

Natalie Twyman, LNHA, Vice President of Census Development, American HealthCare, LLC, said, “I made a choice today to get vaccinated, not for myself but for my family, my friends, my residents, my coworkers and for strangers that I have never met.  Working in healthcare during a pandemic has been eye opening, specifically in long term care. I have had the privilege to work along those who put countless hours in to protect our vulnerable population.”

Nursing home residents, staff take COVID-19 vaccine in Staunton, Augusta County, Waynesboro (January 12, 2021, newsleader.com)

“[The CVS pharmacists] wanted to make sure everybody was okay,” said Alyssa Clark, Augusta Nursing & Rehabilitation Center’s administrator. “Zero side effects so far.”

All 83 residents and about 71 staff members (80 percent of the staff) agreed to take the vaccine, according to Clark.

“The other 20 percent said they’d take it in the second round if none of us had adverse effects,” said Clark.

As the day went on, some of the staff who were initially hesitant told Clark they had wished they had taken the vaccine.

“That was the good thing I was praying for so that other staff saw there were no adverse reactions,” said Clark. “I think they are going to be much more willing during the second clinic.”

CVS pharmacists return on Jan. 18 to administer second doses and first doses to those who decide to take the vaccine during the second clinic.

Birmingham Green nursing home residents, staff receive COVID-19 vaccine (January 11, 2021, princewilliamtimes.com)

Birmingham Green CEO Denise Chadwick Wright said Friday that more than 200 residents and staff at the facility were given first doses of the vaccine from CVS clinicians on Tuesday, Jan. 5. The second dose is scheduled for Jan. 26.

“At this time, 86% of our nursing home residents and 45% of our nursing home staff have received the first dose,” Chadwick said.

COVID-19 vaccine should be available by summer for Virginia’s general population despite setbacks (January 9, 2021, thecentersquare.com)

“… the Virginia Health Care Association said the state’s distribution to long-term care facilities has been on pace.

“It’s really a good story to tell from our end,” Keith Hare, the president of the VHCA, told The Center Square.

Hare said he expects the state to be finished providing the first doses of the vaccine to staff and residents of long-term care facilities by the end of January. He said the second round of doses for staff and residents already has been scheduled.

COVID-19 vaccination brings hope to Salem long-term care facility (January 7, 2021, west.com)

Richfield Living CEO Cherie Grisso said this vaccine is a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

‘Today stands for hope for our residents hope for our community. It’s one step closer to being able to hug their loved ones and spend quality time with them,’ said Grisso.”

Long term care center in Norfolk receives COVID-19 vaccine (January 5, 2021, wavy.com)

“In Norfolk on Tuesday, CVS set up shop inside Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital, where they are set to administer 400 shots over two days.

“’I’m just excited to be able to restore some hope,” Lead Pharmacist Aviance Lewis told 10 On Your Side.

“Hope for the staff like Edward Robinson, who not only works with COVID-19 patients, he does so at great risk to himself. “I’m a two-time cancer survivor; I have only 80% lung capacity and I take care of COVID-19 patients,” he said.

“It also brings hope to residents who have basically lived in seclusion since March.

“’You know, we went through Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s and we’ve only had window visits,” said hospital President & CEO Tom Orsini, who led by example. He was first to roll up his sleeve for the vaccine.”

Vaccines begin to reach ground zero for pandemic: nursing homes (January 3, 2021, pilotonline.com)

[Beth Sholom Village of Eastern Virginia administrator Rebecca] “Moralez said they’ve focused as much energy on assuaging concerns from personnel. Like many in the general public and even some medical professionals, elder care workers have been wary because of the rapid speed with which the vaccines were developed.

“When an employee expressed some hesitance because of an allergy to a specific type of medicine, Moralez zipped over to her computer and printed off a list of ingredients in the vaccine, just to show it wouldn’t be an issue.”


For Immediate Release: December 7, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org 

Long Term Care Industry Applauds VDH for Prioritizing Long Term Care for Vaccination

Richmond, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association released the following statement in response to the news that the the Commonwealth is expected to receive 480,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of December. In announcing priorities for vaccine distribution, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) stated health care personnel and long term care facility residents will receive the initial doses of the vaccine. VHD estimates that there are 158,000 long term care residents and staff in the state. Most long term care facilities in Virginia will receive vaccines from CVS/Omnicare and Walgreens through the CDC Pharmacy Partnership for Long Term Care Program.

The following is attributable to Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL:

“On behalf of Virginia’s nursing homes and assisted living facilities, we are immensely grateful that the Commonwealth is prioritizing our residents and caregivers for the first distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine.”

“More than 2,000 long term care residents in Virginia have died from this virus and tragically facilities continue to experience outbreaks. Knowing that our staff and residents are only weeks away from receiving a vaccine will be a lifesaver for many and allow us to begin to reopen our facilities to family members and loved ones. ”

The steps the Northam Administration has taken to help long term care facilities battle this virus cannot be understated. They have boosted the per day Medicaid rate to help cover increased COVID-19 related costs to care for residents in nursing homes, allocated $53 million of the state’s share of CARES Act funds to long term care providers, deployed the National Guard to help with testing at facilities, distributed antigen tests to supplement supplies sent by the US Department of Health, and serve as source for personal protective equipment if a facility is approaching a critical shortage.


For Immediate Release: June 1, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL Statement On New CMS Data On Nursing Homes Affected By COVID-19

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Health Care Association-Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL) released the following statement in response to new data released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on nursing homes affected by COVID-19. This data is derived from information nursing homes submit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The reporting requirements were effective as of May 1:

“Providing as much factual data and real-time information as possible is critical in our ongoing efforts to tackle COVID-19. Our members have supported CMS’ reporting guidelines from the beginning,” said Keith Hare, president and chief executive officer of VHCA-VCAL. “This new data reaffirms the ongoing and urgent need to support long-term care. As testing has become more widely available, we anticipated the likely rise in positive cases. What’s also important to note is that the increase in confirmed cases reaffirms that individuals may be carrying and spreading the virus without displaying symptoms. New and better data allows nursing homes the ability to make targeted decisions to prevent further spread and quickly determine where resources should be allocated, better protecting both residents and caregivers.”

“Virginia’s nursing home operators were ready and eager to report their COVID-19 data. However, we are aware that many of our member facilities received notices even as recently as this week that while their accounts in the CDC system were registered, they were not active. This system delay prohibited them from uploading their data. Nursing facilities should not be penalized or disparaged because the CDC system was overwhelmed,” Hare explained.

In addition to the CDC reporting reflected in this CMS data, Virginia’s nursing homes have been in compliance with requirements to report COVID-19 cases to their local health departments, and the VDH Office of Licensure and Certification. Virginia’s assisted living facilities are also reporting cases to their local health departments and to the Virginia Department of Social Services (DSS), as well as reporting their personal protective equipment (PPE) burn rate and inventory to DSS. Assisted living facilities may choose to use the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). Lastly, long-term care facilities are voluntarily reporting to the Virginia Hospital Alerting and Status System (VHASS) as an avenue to help them get the supplies and resources they need to keep residents safe.

“What today’s data release does not show is that among Virginia’s long-term care residents who have contracted the virus, the vast majority have recovered, despite many having ongoing health issues. Resident recoveries are, in large part, due to the professionals who have worked day and night to care for them,” Hare continued. “In addition, it is important to note that CMS’ data does not include assisted living facilities, which have also been impacted by COVID-19 cases and share many of the same concerns and needs of nursing homes as they continuously care for residents who are vulnerable to COVID-19.”

“Lastly, as we look ahead, we must make sure that the data released by the CMS is accurate by ensuring long-term care facilities have clear instructions on how to report cases to state and federal agencies,” Hare concluded. “Our heroic caregivers are on the frontlines of this battle and are working diligently to help the most vulnerable among us. We urge the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to continue to support our long-term care community, including assisted living facilities, which have not yet received relief funding through the CARES Act.”


For Immediate Release: May 18, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

VHCA-VCAL, LeadingAge Virginia, and VALA Statement on Licensed Nursing Homes Dashboard

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL), LeadingAge Virginia, and the Virginia Assisted Living Association (VALA) released the following statement Monday regarding the new Licensed Nursing Homes Dashboard released by the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA):

VHCA-VCAL, LeadingAge Virginia, and VALA members support open and transparent communication with our residents, families, and other stakeholders because knowledge and timely data is critical during this unprecedented global health crisis. Our public health officials need to know where to send urgently needed resources.

VHHA has published a “Licensed Nursing Homes Dashboard” from the Virginia Hospital Alerting and Status System (VHASS) that shows COVID-19 cases and personal protective equipment needs across the state.

“We hope this public reporting illustrates the ongoing urgent need to support long-term care right now,” said Keith Hare, president and CEO of VHCA-VCAL. “Virginia’s long-term care providers – both nursing homes and assisted living facilities – are working every day to stop the spread of COVID-19 and follow proper infection control procedures while making sure our residents still receive the daily care they require.”

The Licensed Nursing Homes Dashboard shows only a partial picture of the ongoing needs of Virginia’s long-term care facilities as they take unprecedented steps to prevent further spread of COVID-19. The data in the dashboard is derived from information long-term care facilities are voluntarily reporting to VHASS. Both nursing homes and assisted living facilities are reporting to VHASS as an avenue to help them get the supplies and resources they need to keep residents safe.

In addition to the voluntary VHASS reporting, Virginia’s nursing homes have been in compliance with requirements to report COVID-19 cases to their local health departments, the VDH Office of Licensure and Certification, and now to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) via the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). Virginia’s assisted living facilities are also reporting cases to their local health departments and to the Virginia Department of Social Services, as well as reporting their personal protective equipment (PPE) burnrate and inventory to DSS. Assisted living facilities may choose to use the NHSN.

It is important to note the dashboard does not include any data from assisted living facilities, which have also been impacted by COVID-19 cases and share many of the same concerns and needs of nursing homes as they continuously care for residents who are vulnerable to COVID-19.

“We continue to encourage providers to be transparent in communications with officials, staff members, residents, and public stakeholders, but we also encourage discretion in interpreting any report data to make sure that one community’s experience or needs are not implied of another community. Each community has unique needs and has varying support channels,” said Judy Hackler, executive director of VALA.

“There is no doubt that COVID-19 is taking a toll on nursing home and assisted living residents. This is not just a challenge here in Virginia but across the country. Our caregivers are undertaking heroic responsibilities.” said Melissa Andrews, president and CEO of LeadingAge Virginia.

“This information reinforces the need for state and federal officials to continue to rally around long-term care providers to prioritize additional testing, personal protective equipment, staffing, and funding to address this crisis,” added Hare.

 


For Immediate Release: March 30, 2020
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Supplies Needed at Local Nursing Facility or Assisted Living Facility

Richmond, VA – Virginia’s long term care providers—nursing homes and assisted living facilities—are on the front lines of caring for patients with COVID-19 and doing everything possible to minimize the spread of the virus. The Virginia Health Care Association – Virginia Center for Assisted Living is asking businesses to consider donating items such as face masks and shields, disposable gloves, scrubs, and alcohol-based sanitizer to their local nursing facility or assisted living facility.

“We’re hearing from our peers in other states that otherwise unconventional partners to long term care are donating items and playing a part in preventing the spread of the coronavirus in their local facilities caring for our seniors and other frail individuals,” said Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL President and CEO. “We’ve even heard that businesses, such as furniture manufacturers, are shifting their focus to the production of masks. If Virginian’s are looking for ways to help our state in this pandemic, these are great examples of how they can contribute.”

VHCA-VCAL recommends businesses and organizations–including dental clinics, veterinarians, schools, brewing companies, salons, tattoo parlors, and textile, manufacturing, and construction companies–contact their local assisted living facility or nursing home to determine its needs and ability to receive the items.

To facilitate that effort, visit the following webpages:

VHCA-VCAL Facility Locator

https://www.vhca.org/locator/

PPE Donations to Virginia’s Long Term Care Providers

https://www.vhca.org/ppe-donations-to-virginias-long-term-care-providers/

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For Immediate Release: July 1, 2019
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Medical Facilities of America CFO Selected for National Leadership Program

Novel Martin to Join Future Leaders of Long Term Care in America Program

Roanoke, VA – Novel Martin, Chief Financial Officer at Medical Facilities of America (MFA) has been chosen by the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) as a future leader in long term and post-acute care (LTPAC). After a competitive review process, Martin was chosen as one of 40 long term care professionals selected from across the country. Martin will join the association’s Future Leaders program, a year-long program that offers training and guidance for LTPAC professionals.

“Novel has a tremendous knowledge and passion for long term care. He has used that experience to tackle tough issues on behalf of MFA and the association. He always puts the residents and patients first in his thinking, which always produces positive results,” said Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL President and CEO.

Prior to serving as Chief Financial Officer at Medical Facilities of America, Martin served as Senior Manager of Assurance Services at KPMG, where he provided services to a variety of clients throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia primarily in the health serves field including: nursing homes, integrated health delivery systems, community hospitals, institutional pharmacies, pharmaceutical distribution and biotechnology companies.

“I’m honored to be a part of the AHCA leadership development program,” said Novel Martin, Medical Facilities of America CFO. “I’m excited to be able to learn and work alongside other professionals from across the country to benefit both VHCA and AHCA.”

Martin holds a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from Virginia Tech and a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Radford University. Martin resides in Roanoke, VA.

Since 2004, AHCA/NCAL has hosted LTPAC professionals in the Future Leaders program. Selected participants both demonstrate leadership potential and represent the interests of both state and national long term care providers. The year-long program covers the latest theories and practical applications in quality management, customer satisfaction, and leadership. The program kicks off with a two-day symposium held each year in Washington, D.C. This year’s symposium will take place September 24 – 26, 2019. 

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For Immediate Release: August 6, 2018
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Front Royal Woman Selected for National Leadership Program

Crystal Larson of Lynn Care Center to Join Future Leaders of Long Term Care in America Program

Front Royal, VA – Crystal Larson, Administrator at Lynn Care Center at Warren Memorial Hospital. has been chosen by the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) as a future leader in long term and post-acute care (LTPAC). After a competitive review process, Jackson was chosen as one of 40 long term care professionals selected from across the country.  Larson will join the association’s Future Leaders program, a year-long program that offers training and guidance for LTPAC professionals.

“Crystal will get to share her wealth of knowledge about long term care with leaders from across the country and then share with VHCA-VCAL what she learns from the Future Leaders experience,” said Keith Hare, VHCA-VCAL President and CEO.  “We are excited she gets to participate in this opportunity.”

“At AHCA/NCAL we are always searching for the future leaders of our profession. After a thorough review, we have selected Crystal Larson as one of our future leaders,” said Mark Parkinson, President & CEO AHCA/NCAL. “Crystal has already made a positive impact on the lives of older people in their community and we are excited to be a part of their future.”

In describing her desire to participate in the program, Larson noted her 18 years of experience in a variety of roles in the long term care sector. “I am looking forward to this experience so that I can share my knowledge with my organization and VHCA,” Larson said. Prior to serving as Administrator at Lynn Care Center, she served as Administrator of the Extended Care Unit at Hampshire Memorial and Consultant Administrator for War Memorial Hospital Extended Care Facility, where she led the facility’s efforts to improve the overall resident satisfaction from 17 percent to 95 percent excellent. Larson also worked for American HealthCare, LLC in roles including administrator, director of rehabilitation, and marketing and admissions. 

Larson began her career in LTC in occupational therapy. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University in health science. She and her husband Anthony reside in Wardensville, WV.

Since 2004, AHCA/NCAL has hosted LTPAC professionals in the Future Leaders program. Selected participants both demonstrate leadership potential and represent the interests of both state and national long term care providers. The year-long program covers the latest theories and practical applications in quality management, customer satisfaction, and leadership. The program kicks off with a two-day symposium held each year in Washington, D.C. This year’s symposium will take place September 26 – 28, 2018. 

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For Immediate Release: June 28, 2018
Contact: Amy Hewett amy.hewett@vhca.org

Five VHCA-VCAL Members Earn National Awards for Quality

Richmond, VA – Five provider communities in Virginia have been recognized with national awards for demonstrating their dedication to improving quality of care for residents and patients in long term and post-acute care under the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program.

Riverside Convalescent Center – Mathews has earned the 2018 Silver – Achievement in Quality Award. Riverside Convalescent Center – Mathews is among only 166 skilled nursing care centers and assisted living communities in 36 states recognized for commitment to quality care across the country this year.

“Riverside Convalescent Center – Mathews has shown its strong commitment to a culture of continuous improvement in the quality of care for their residents and patients,” said Virginia Health Care Association Virginia Center for Assisted Living (VHCA-VCAL) President and CEO Keith Hare. “VHCA-VCAL applauds them for their efforts.”

Four new members join the ranks of the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award winners in 2018 earning their Bronze-Commitment to Quality Awards for their dedication to quality care. VHCA-VCAL offers its congratulations to the following:

  • Seaside Health Center at Atlantic Shores, Virginia Beach
  • Sunrise of Countryside, Potomac Falls
  • The Colonnades, Charlottesville
  • The Jefferson, Arlington

“These centers’ commitment to quality improvement is a testament to the dedication of their staff to the care of their residents and patients,” added Hare. “VHCA-VCAL is proud its members continue to lead the way as one of the states with the highest percentage of their members who have received quality awards.”

In total, 521 long term and post-acute care providers in 50 states were recognized for Bronze- Commitment to Quality Care in 2018.

VHCA-VCAL now counts 54 active Quality Award recipients among the membership: 1 Gold – Excellence in Quality, 10 Silver – Achievement in Quality, and 43 Bronze – Commitment to Quality.

About the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Awards Program

Based on the core values and criteria of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program, AHCA/NCAL’s National Quality Award Program challenges member providers to achieve performance excellence through three progressive levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold. At the Silver level, members develop and demonstrate effective approaches that help improve organizational performance and health care outcomes. 2018 recipients of the Silver award can now advance in further developing comprehensive strategies that meet the criteria required for the Gold – Excellence in Quality Award.

The awards will be presented during AHCA/NCAL’s 69th Annual Convention and Exposition in San Diego, California, October 7-10, 2018.

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