Dear Community Members,
There is no doubt that in any organization's history there will be moments of joy, hardship, gratitude and frustration. The last few weeks at Centra have been filled with moments that have been incredibly rewarding and others that have been deeply challenging.
A little over a month ago, we shared with you the news of Lynchburg Hematology-Oncology Clinic's (LHOC) decision to end its professional agreement with Centra and return to private practice. Since then, misinformation has swirled within the Lynchburg community about Centra's Oncology Services, which has been exacerbated by local media coverage related to the announcement. We have worked hard over the years to establish ourselves as a high-integrity organization, and when that is challenged, it is difficult to see and hear.
When change occurs, especially change that involves healthcare, it is natural for emotions, questions and concerns to arise among those affected. Since this announcement was made, Centra has worked to focus first on the Caregivers and patients who will be directly affected by this change. Ensuring that our patient's needs are met and that their care at the Centra Alan B. Pearson Regional Cancer Center or the Southside Hematology Oncology Clinic can continue after March 29th has remained Centra's priority.
We would not be able to provide comprehensive cancer care close to home through the Centra Hematology Oncology Clinics without our Caregiver's investments in our patients and their well-being. You can read about why some of these Caregivers have chosen to be a part of the Oncology Team at Centra in a special edition of Centra Today that's linked here.
Many moments from Centra's past, present and future have been characterized by advancing health and healing. This year, we are celebrating the centennial of Virginia Baptist Hospital and its extensive legacy of excellent, patient-centered care. Just last week, we broke ground at the future home of the Centra Langhorne Medical Center. This milestone not only signifies our dedication to centralizing and expanding access to specialty care but also presents an opportunity to communicate our commitment to our community's health. Next Monday, the Centra Hematology Oncology Clinics will open and the next season of providing compassionate, personalized cancer care for our patients will begin. These milestones are a cause for celebration.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you alongside each of my fellow Caregivers, and I look forward to continuing to communicate and showcase the incredible work being done here at Centra.
Warmly,
Diane M. Ludwig
Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer