By Ali Rees
Blanchard Valley Health System Physician Recruiter
Since “The Great Resignation” in 2021, workforce shortages have become increasingly common across industries. The healthcare sector, already strained by the pandemic, has faced significant challenges, particularly in maintaining adequate physician staffing. However, physician shortages are not new. They have been building for years due to population growth, aging demographics, rising healthcare costs, and a limited pipeline of new physician trainees.
By Myron Lewis, MSW, MBA, FACHE
President and Chief Executive Officer, Blanchard Valley Health System
This past week, I visited Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. to speak with our congressional delegates and attend the American Hospital Association annual meeting. Throughout the week, several congressional representatives spoke from both sides of the aisle on healthcare through deep, rich, and strongly opinionated conversations. In the end, more discussions are needed and, as with any good resolution, both parties need to listen and find balance.
Two weeks ago, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) implemented a significant number of job cuts that will impact our response to sexual assault here locally.
The Program Branch of the CDC Division of Violence Prevention (DVP) was eliminated. This section, which is part of the Injury Center, is responsible for administering the Rape Prevention and Education (RPE) program that has provided Crime Victim Services with vital funding to carry out prevention programming since 2013.
St. John’s United Church of Christ is excited to announce its second annual bicycle give-away for children aged 12 and under. This initiative, part of the church’s Bicycle Ministry, aims to promote healthy lifestyles and provide local youth with the joy of owning a bike while exploring Bluffton’s wonderful parks and bike paths.
This comprehensive document represents a culmination of our endeavors, showcasing the progress, outcomes, and impactful initiatives undertaken by our incredible team of staff and volunteers throughout the last year, and serves as a testament to our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and excellence in all facets of our operations.
