RECENT NEWS

 

Financial scams are an unfortunate reality in the digital age we live in. With a myriad of sophisticated tactics at their disposal, fraudsters continue to evolve, devising new ways to deceive unsuspecting victims. As a result, it's essential to stay informed about common types of scams and learn how to protect yourself.

Learn how to identify scams and protect yourself with our online guide. Click here

Cornerstone VNA Expands Service Area to Meet Growing Community Needs

 

Rochester, NH: Cornerstone VNA, a nonprofit home health and hospice care organization, is pleased to announce its expanded service area, now reaching Epping, Exeter, Newfields, and Tuftonboro in New Hampshire, as well as Ogunquit, Shapleigh, and Wells in Maine. This expansion comes in response to requests from local hospitals and physicians seeking high-quality home health and hospice services for their patients in these communities. Cornerstone VNA now proudly serves nearly 50 towns in New Hampshire and Maine.

 

“We are proud to provide expert care and a full range of services, from birth through end of life,” shares Jennifer Ufkin, RN, MSN, BC-NC, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cornerstone VNA. “Expanding our reach allows us to meet the growing demand for home-based care, and we are grateful for the trust and support of our community partners, patients, and families.”

 

As a recognized leader in home, hospice, and community services, Cornerstone VNA remains dedicated to providing exceptional care. With many of its clinicians holding certifications in Wound and Ostomy Care, Lymphedema, Vestibular, IV Therapy, Chronic Care, and more, patients and families receive the most advanced care in the comfort of their homes. The organization is also a Level 5 We Honor Veterans Hospice Program, reflecting their deep commitment to honoring veterans at the end of life. In addition, the Home Care program at Cornerstone VNA has achieved a 5-star rating for patient satisfaction by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and the Hospice Care program has achieved a 4-star rating for family caregiver satisfaction.

 

For community members in their expanded area looking to make a meaningful impact, Cornerstone VNA welcomes new hospice, companion, and ‘A Matter of Balance’ coach volunteers. Through the Circle of Caring volunteer program, individuals receive comprehensive training to ensure a rewarding and fulfilling experience. To learn more about their clinical services or volunteer opportunities, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 603-332-1133.

 

Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For 112 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.

Cornerstone VNA Announces New Promotions

 

Rochester, NH – Cornerstone VNA, a trusted local nonprofit home health and hospice care provider, is pleased to announce that Karen Krause, PT, COS-C, AIB-VRC, has been recently promoted from Rehab Manager to a new position as Rehab Director. Cornerstone VNA has also promoted Katie Michaud, MS, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist and Mental Health Coordinator to the new Community Care Director position.

Karen’s journey with Cornerstone VNA began in 2010 when she joined as a dedicated Physical Therapist. Over the past 15 years, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to exceptional care and remarkable leadership skills. In 2013, Karen was promoted to Rehab Manager, where she has successfully led and supported their growing rehab team with passion and expertise.

As Rehab Director, Karen will continue to guide the Cornerstone VNA rehab team, which is comprised of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. According to Karen, “I am proud to lead such a skilled rehab team. Their dedication to excellence and commitment to the latest best practices ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. They embody everything a clinician should be.”

Katie joined Cornerstone VNA in 2013 as an Occupational Therapist, and she has made an incredible impact in various roles, including Team Manager in 2016, Rehab Coordinator in 2021, and Mental Health Coordinator in 2022. In her new role as Community Care Director, she will continue to have a positive impact on the community by heading the organization’s Educational Series, Matter of Balance programs, and Mental Health advocacy. According to Katie, “A sense of community is a key characteristic to a successful organization, and I look forward to growing in my role as Community Care Director. I am passionate about networking, collaborating, educating, and contributing to the well-being of our local communities by fostering improved mental and physical health.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Karen and Katie to the senior leadership team,” said Jennifer Ufkin, RN, MSN, President/CEO of Cornerstone VNA. “Both are longtime, valued team members whose skill sets, and clinical expertise are unparalleled. They are strong leaders and passionate contributors to the culture of excellence that Cornerstone VNA represents.” Ufkin added, “We are deeply grateful for their dedication, and we are excited for this next chapter in their careers.”

Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For 112 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.

Cornhole Tournament to support On the Hunt-Veteran Strong on Saturday, April 19^th beginning at 11am at the Barrington Elementary School Gym. Raffles, 50/50, Fresh game with Smoke Master Mike and more. Register at Scoreholio.com. Have questions? Stop in at Renaissance Firearms and ask.

New and Again Thrift Store for Charity, 585 Calef Hwy, Barrington is celebrating MARDI GRAS on Tuesday March 4th, 10 a m - 5 p m. All clothes on the racks - $1 each. Enter raffle to win a beautiful Tea Basket. Refreshments served. See you there!

Rochester, NH – Cornerstone VNA, a trusted local nonprofit home health and hospice provider, is pleased to share that the agency’s Home Care program has achieved a 5-star rating for patient satisfaction by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The survey asks patients (or their family or friends) about their home health care, and if they would recommend Cornerstone VNA to someone else. The patient satisfaction survey is one of two ratings CMS shares on their Medicare Compare website that allows patients and families to research local home health providers based on quality and patient satisfaction ratings.

Cornerstone VNA is one of five home health care agencies in the State of New Hampshire that has received a 5-star patient satisfaction rating. Quality and Education Director, Lisa Romanovitz, RN, BSN, shares, “Our team is dedicated to providing an outstanding patient experience, and they have worked so hard to ensure our patients feel supported in their care, every step of the way. I am extremely proud of their amazing work.” Home Care Director, Stacey Genest, RN, MSN, WCC, adds, “We are honored to achieve this important distinction, and it motivates our team to continue delivering high-quality, compassionate care.”

An important contributor to a high patient satisfaction rating is the number of specialized services provided by the Cornerstone VNA team. Many clinicians have received certifications in a variety of specialty care services, such as wound care, lymphedema, vestibular, IV therapy, chronic care management, and more. By offering a high level of care in the home, Cornerstone VNA is well-prepared to meet the complex care needs of its most vulnerable patients. Jennifer Ufkin, RN, MSN, President/CEO, shares, “A 5-star patient satisfaction rating is a significant achievement, and is a testament to the work of our incredible team to ensure our patients and their family members receive the best, and most advanced care, at home.”

Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For 112 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.

On January 29th Beth McCann of Bay Equity Home Loans hosted her first Business after Hours and Ribbon Cutting to celebrate opening her new office here in Barrington. Bay Equity has sub leased an unused room at the Greater Barrington Chamber of Commerce office. The event had over 30 visitors from the chamber, her business groups and real estate colleagues Beth works worth with regularly. As a long time resident of Barrington Beth is excited to be able to help her neighbors with all their mortgage needs and questions. Beth can be reached at (603) 507-1465. Office located at 748 Calef Highway, Barrington, NH.

And the Winner is: The Barrington branch of Edward Jones Investments has announced the winner of the annual year end Dow Jones Average prediction. The contest held during the Holiday Soiree, invites participants to predict what the Dow Jones Average will be at years end. On the day of the Soiree, December 6^th it closed at 44,642. This years winner is Ted Bergeron of Barrington. His guess of 43,304 was the closest to the actual year end Dow close of 42,544. Congratulations to Ted who along with a nice gift basket has bragging rights till next year.  

Cornerstone VNA Announces Leadership Transition: Jennifer Ufkin to Become President/CEO

 

Rochester, NH – Cornerstone VNA, a trusted nonprofit home health provider, announces an important leadership transition. On January 3, 2025, Julie Reynolds, RN, MS, will retire after over 30 years of dedicated service, including 12 years as President/CEO. Jennifer Ufkin, RN, MSN, a 23-year veteran of Cornerstone VNA, will succeed Julie as the next President/CEO, continuing the organization's mission of excellence in home health care.

 

Julie shares, “I am thrilled that our Board of Directors selected Jen as the next leader of this organization. As part of our succession plan, I have been mentoring Jen since the board officially offered her the position in January, and I am confident that this will be a very smooth leadership transition.”

 

Julie joined Cornerstone VNA in 1994 and received several promotions before becoming the CEO in January 2013. Under her leadership, Cornerstone VNA received numerous accolades, including Business NH Magazine’s 2020 Health Care Business of the Decade. Julie herself was honored with awards such as the 2020 Excellence in Nursing Award from NH Magazine and the 2024 Home Care Service Award from the Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Alliance of NH. During her tenure as CEO, Julie has navigated the complexities of the home healthcare sector with unparalleled expertise and insight. Over the past 12 years, the organization has more than doubled in size in both service area and staffing, and has made important investments in professional staff development and specialty care services.

 

Julie shares, “Being the CEO at Cornerstone VNA has been the greatest honor of my life. I am leaving a legacy that I know will continue for another 111 years and beyond. I am enormously proud of the organization that Cornerstone VNA has become, and I know we are poised for greater things ahead.”

 

Jen began her career as a Home Care nurse in 2001, shortly after graduating from the University of New Hampshire. Over two decades, she has risen through the ranks, most recently serving as Vice President of Operations. Throughout her career she has gained experience in healthcare management, strategic planning, and telehealth implementation. Jen has led her home health teams to achieve significant improvements in financial performance and patient satisfaction and is passionate about finding innovative ways to provide the best care to patients at home.

 

Jen share, “This is an incredible opportunity to lead Cornerstone VNA during such an exciting time of growth and innovation.” Jen adds, “For more than a century, this organization has been guided by incredible leaders, and I am proud to follow in their footsteps, and keep Cornerstone VNA at the forefront of advanced care at home.”

 

Jen’s career highlights include implementing evidence-based programs, reducing hospitalization rates, promoting staff development, and advancing telehealth technology. Jen also holds leadership roles on several boards, underscoring her commitment to improving the health and wellness of our local communities. With a master’s degree in nursing and a wealth of certifications and awards, Jen continues to strive for excellence in improving healthcare accessibility and outcomes for all.

 

As Julie reflects on her career with pride, she is confident in the organization's future under Jen’s capable leadership. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and compassionate care, Cornerstone VNA is poised for continued growth and success. Julie adds, “Jen and the Cornerstone VNA team have an exciting and rewarding journey ahead as they continue to explore new opportunities to advance our mission.”

 

Cornerstone VNA currently serves Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty, and Community Care. For more than 111 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.

Giving Thanks to Home Health Heroes

 

Thanksgiving week is the perfect time to give thanks and recognize the home health heroes during National Care at Home Month, which celebrates the various types of in-home care, including home health care, private duty home care, hospice care, and palliative care. This special month also honors the care and support family caregivers provide to their loved ones. Throughout November, Cornerstone Visiting Nurse Association has been paying tribute to these healthcare heroes.

 

National Family Caregiver’s Day – November 1

 

According to Julie Reynolds, RN, MS, Cornerstone VNA President/CEO, “Family caregivers play a critical role in helping people stay at home, where most prefer to be cared for. At Cornerstone VNA we see firsthand the struggles and sacrifices that caregivers go through each day along with compassion in caring for their loved ones. Caregivers need support and resources to help them get through. Cornerstone VNA is here for our community of caregivers with education, training, and support. If you know someone caring for a loved one at home, each day is a good day to recognize their efforts and support them in any way you can.” Cornerstone VNA proudly supports Caregivers throughout the year through monthly Caregiver Cafés, an Annual Caregivers Connect event, special trainings, workshops, and quarterly e-newsletters.

 

Palliative and Advanced Care Week – November 4-8

 

Through Cornerstone VNA’s Palliative Care program, their skilled Nurse Practitioners specialize in chronic care management and geropsychiatric care, helping patients enhance their quality of life while reducing hospital visits through effective symptom management and education. According to a Palliative Care Patient, “I don’t think people really understand the benefit of Palliative Care. I think they often panic and think it means that they are ready for hospice, but that’s not the case. Through Palliative Care, my Nurse Practitioner has helped me manage my chronic illness so that I can have a better quality of life and be more comfortable.”

 

Hospice Week – November 11-15

 

Cornerstone VNA is honored to serve patients in the community and provide compassionate care and comfort at the end of life. Their dedicated Hospice Care team is available 24/7 to provide individualized support for patients of all ages and their families. As a proud Pet Peace of Mind Partner, Cornerstone VNA also helps patients care for their beloved pets through this journey. Additionally, as a Level Five Partner with the ‘We Honor Veterans’ program, they ensure that veterans receive the respect and quality end-of-life care they deserve.

 

Home Health Week – November 18-22

 

As Cornerstone VNA’s largest program, the Home Care team cares for nearly 4,000 patients per year, and provides over 58,600 home visits. The Home Care team includes skilled nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, medical social workers, licensed nursing assistants, and companion volunteers, who help patients recover and thrive in the comfort of their own homes. There have been many advancements in home health services over the years, which have greatly enhanced the care provided to patients and their families. Cornerstone VNA provides remote monitoring of high-risk patients through a Telehealth program, and many clinicians are certified in specialty areas such as wound care, ostomy care, IV therapy, lymphedema, vestibular, pediatrics, and more, which is important for treating a variety of complex conditions.

 

Private Duty Home Care Week – November 25-29

 

Life Care is Cornerstone VNA’s private duty non-medical program offering supportive services to help people stay independent and comfortable at home. The program is perfect for individuals wishing to age in place, or for caregivers in need of support for their loved ones.

 

According to Jennifer Ufkin, VP of Operations and Incoming President/CEO of Cornerstone VNA, “The care provided in the home has evolved significantly, especially over the past two decades. Thanks to advanced technology applications and a steady focus on the continuing education of our staff to provide specialized services, we are committed to meeting the diverse health and wellness needs of our local communities. It is an honor to work with such an amazing team and recognize them all during National Care at Home Month.”

About Cornerstone VNA:

Cornerstone VNA is a nonprofit home health and hospice care provider, currently serving over 45 towns Rockingham, Strafford, Belknap and Carroll Counties in New Hampshire and York County in Maine. The team at Cornerstone VNA provides award-winning care and support through five distinct programs: Home Care, Hospice Care, Palliative Care, Life Care-Private Duty and Community Care. For over 111 years, Cornerstone VNA has been committed to bringing services to people of all ages so that families can stay together at home, even when facing the challenges of aging, surgical recovery, chronic or life-threatening illnesses or end-of-life care. To learn more about Cornerstone VNA, visit www.cornerstonevna.org or call 800-691-1133.