2024 Annual Statement from the Board
November
We are often asked where RDNA fits in today’s institutional health care and non-profit structures. The non-profit community is generally separate from the medical community, with uniquely defined funding streams. Community nursing simply does not fit these narrow definitions, operating as a nursing (medical) service, yet with local funding and no Medicare/MaineCare and insurance reimbursements. RDNA is therefore not typically eligible for federal and state funding, and less and less for grants as they become more restricted and focused on the fragility of the larger health care system or other community needs such as affordable housing and food security.
Yet, the larger health care system is not structured to provide the essential district nursing services necessary for keeping older and medically vulnerable residents out of dwindling hospital and nursing home beds. Our Board Secretary and retired social worker, Anne Norman, notes that “for many, especially the elderly, RDNA’s nursing visits are key to catching health issues early and addressing them safely in the home. When these nursing services aren’t available, minor concerns often blossom into major medical problems and the patient is back being shuffled between the hospital and nursing home. RDNA care has a direct impact on preventing unnecessary hospitalizations.”
Joining clients and their families, a district nursing agency survives and thrives because of the nurturing from many ~ nurses and non-clinical staff, Board and leadership volunteers, area physicians and providers, the broader community. 100% of the Board financially supports RDNA, a 501(c)(3) organization. We invite you to consider RDNA when donating or discussing your estate planning. “Sponsoring an RDNA mile” with a monthly donation helps keep RDNA nurses on the road. Summer Rose Hip bakers and Doughnators fill the Rose Hip basket in support of district nursing. Visit our website (rocklanddistrictnursing.org) for more information, and to make a secure on-line donation.
(For more information, see the 2024 Info Sheet.)
Unlike the larger health care system, there is no corporate structure that keeps these services available. Each of us today is forming the foundation for the future district nursing, while we serve on that built by those who have gone before. Not one of us can carry this legacy alone. We thank you.
RDNA Board of Directors
Anna Ware, RN, President
Anne Norman, Secretary
Meg Sawyer, Treasurer
Renee Heal
Mark Lewis
Walker Hutchins, Emeritus
Pat Snow, Emeritus
Peta vanVuuren, Agency Director