Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems Statement in Response to Governor Scott’s State of the State Address and Start of the 2024 Legislative Session

For Immediate Release
January 4, 2024

Contact: Beth Esmond
802-343-9074
communications@VAHHS.org

The following statement is from Mike Del Trecco, President and CEO of the Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health System regarding Governor Phil Scott’s State of the State address and the start of the 2024 legislative session.

“The Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems represents all of Vermont non-profit hospitals, which are working tirelessly to serve their communities in these difficult times. Vermonters are struggling with big issues like economic turmoil, substance misuse, mental health challenges, lack of access to community-based services including transportation, long-term care and more. The result of these challenges is that more and more of our neighbors end up in our hospitals sicker than before and with limited options when they are ready to leave. This drives up the cost of living for all of us.

“We know that access to safe, modern and healthy homes is foundational to living and healthy, thriving life. Too many Vermonters lack this basic necessity, including our health care workforce. We support and applaud efforts to provide shelter to the most vulnerable, make targeted investments that create more housing statewide and streamline important development regulations. We know this will lead to healthier lives for our patients of all ages and demographics.

“We know the challenges are great, but working together, we can make meaningful and measurable progress. We are grateful for our elected leaders, appreciate their public service and look forward to working alongside them in the months to come.”

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