“A lot of the folks that work at the VNA, and I would say most if not all, the folks at VNAHG, really view their work as not a job but a calling.”

In this episode of the "Moving Healthcare Forward" podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Christopher Rinn, CEO of the VNA Health Group, to reflect on his first year in this important role. Christopher opens up about his leadership philosophy, which is deeply rooted in service to others and cultivating a workplace culture where every team member feels valued and empowered to achieve their full potential. We delve into the core mission of VNAHG, which is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to live their best lives through comprehensive, compassionate care.

Our conversation takes a closer look at the wide range of services that VNAHG offers, spanning from prenatal care to end-of-life support, showcasing the organization's commitment to supporting patients at every stage of life. Christopher also sheds light on the unique challenges and exciting opportunities that come with leading a healthcare organization that has been a cornerstone of the community for 112 years. He shares his forward-thinking vision for the future of VNAHG, emphasizing the importance of innovation in meeting the evolving needs of patients while simultaneously upholding the values that have defined the organization for over a century.

With a focus on people, both within and beyond the organization, VNAHG is not just moving healthcare forward—it’s transforming lives, one patient at a time.

Key Points from this episode:

• Plans to enhance partnerships and leverage community resources to continue providing innovative, high-quality care.
• How VNAHG is leveraging technology to improve patient care and communication.
• The importance of a patient-centered approach in healthcare.

“Talk to the Dr. Sharma's of the world, the palliative care doctors that see the holistic picture and rely on those professionals to help answer some of your questions, or at least perhaps guide you in the right direction.”

In this episode, we feature a deeply moving conversation with Evan Steinberg and Dr. Vandana Sharma. Dr. Sharma is a board-certified palliative care physician and has been working in palliative care for the last 20 years. Evan recently lost his dad, Herb, and shares his emotional journey navigating his father's end-of-life care, highlighting the compassionate support provided by VNAHG.

Evan candidly discusses his father's battle with a terminal illness and the invaluable role Dr. Sharma and the VNAHG team played to ensure his father’s final days were filled with dignity, love, and peace.

Dr. Sharma walks us through the process that Evan’s dad (and so many others go through) and explains the critical differences between palliative care and hospice, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accessing these services.

Join us as we explore the nuances of palliative care, the profound impact of dedicated healthcare professionals, and the power of asking the right questions to advocate for your loved ones. Tune in to hear a compelling story of love, loss, and the unwavering support that can make all the difference during life's most challenging times.

Tune in to discover how VNAHG is moving healthcare forward by providing compassionate care and ensuring that every patient receives the dignity and support they deserve.

Here’s what you won’t want to miss:

• Insights from Dr. Sharma on the differences between palliative care and hospice care, and why these services matter
• The importance of asking the right questions and being an advocate for your loved ones during critical times
• How Dr. Sharma helped Evan and his dad toward at the end of his life
• The ways in which VNAHG provides support during end-of-life

“...The need, especially within the LGBTQ community, for culturally sensitive health care and for public health practices that meet the individual where they are is immense.”

In this episode of the Moving Healthcare Forward podcast, we explore some of the invaluable services provided by VNAHG that you might not be aware of. Listen in for an inspiring conversation with Erich Wuethrich and Michael Zito Govert as they discuss the organization’s dedication to the LGBTQ community through initiatives like the Prevention Resource Network, Project Real, and the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.

VNAHG has been supporting the LGBTQ community for a long time and is on a mission to break down barriers and be a comprehensive resource for both physical and mental health for the LGBTQ community. Their services are comprehensive, from rapid testing for HIV and syphilis to a syringe program, to sexual education, and support for AIDS prevention and treatment. And one of the most important things to note is that your ability to pay does not affect your access to care.

Key services highlighted in this episode include:

• PrEP (a preventative treatment against HIV)
• Referrals to comprehensive health screenings and care
• Syringe access center providing sterile syringes to the community
• Programs helping individuals wean off opioids
• Testing for HIV and syphilis

You’ll also learn about Project Real’s mission to create a safe, judgment-free space for the LGBTQ community to come together. This unique social space for 18-29 year olds offers a place to share stories, offer support, and participate in fun activities. Project Real is open Monday-Thursday from 5-10 pm, with special events on Fridays and weekends. Staff are available daily from 2-5 pm at 805 4th Ave in Asbury Park. You can also connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.

Tune in to discover how VNAHG is moving healthcare forward by fostering inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ community.

To access these important services please call 855-619-4445 or visit the Prevention Resource Network (PRN) website https://prnvnacj.org.

Other Important Links:

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program: https://ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/
Prevention Resource Network: https://prnvnacj.org/
Project R.E.A.L: https://prnvnacj.org/project-real/