Regionally, the Stratford VNA is a member of the Visiting Nurse Associations of New England (VNANE). VNANE is a multi-state organization which promotes the mission and collective strength of non-profit VNA’s in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. This valuable collaboration has provided the protocols, patient education tools, training details and insight into implementing effective patient-centered care. Patient-centered care incorporates the personal goals of each patient and the VNA tailors the care to help the patient achieve their personal goals, learn to manage their disease process and have a better quality of life. VNANE has challenged its members to reduce individual re-hospitalization rates to 23% by January 2012 and 19% by July 2012. The Stratford VNA is committed to using the knowledge gained through this collaboration and striving towards these goals.
Locally, the Stratford VNA is a member of the Valley Gateway to Health Collaborative of Griffin Hospital focused on preventing the readmission of congestive heart failure patients to the hospital. This work group includes members from Griffin Hospital, area nursing homes, home care agencies, medical supply vendors as well as assistive living communities. Individual case studies are presented and all members provide suggestions and engage in discussion of how to provide the care needed to keep congestive heart failure patients feeling well and out of the hospital. In addition, in September 2011 the Stratford VNA joined the Readmissions Forum of Bridgeport Hospital with the goal of preventing the readmission of congestive heart failure patients to the hospital. In working closely with area hospitals on new programs and initiatives, the Stratford VNA integrates the services patients receive at home in the continuum of care and makes the transition home more fluid for the patient.
Stratford VNA was part of a joint collaborative with local hospitals and long term care facilities to prevent pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores, across the continuum of care. Pressure ulcers can be difficult to heal, painful and costly to the healthcare system. This collaborative relationship enhanced communication between care providers and health care settings for better coordination of supplies, mattresses and care to patients to help prevent this medical complication.
The Stratford VNA is a participant in the ELDER project, a grant funded program through Fairfield University. This three year, federal grant provides education and gathers information on promoting teamwork across multidisciplinary health care providers, cultural competency and issues surrounding end of life care. This grant is designed for health care workers who primarily treat the elderly. Stratford VNA nurses, home health aides and physical therapists take part in this exciting grant and benefit from this partnership.
The Stratford VNA participates in many state or publicly funded programs including the Homecare for Elders Program administered through the Agency on Aging. This wonderful program is designed to provide the additional coverage or services needed to help keep seniors in Connecticut living in the community. Without the services provided through the Agency on Aging, many seniors would be forced to enter nursing homes.