Porter Medical Center Launches Community Conversation about the Future of Health Care in our Community
Porter Medical Center’s Board has launched a community conversation including community forums and an online questionnaire as part of their strategic planning process regarding the future of Porter and health care delivery in our community. According to PMC spokesperson Ron Hallman, Porter is strongly encouraging members of the community to be a part of the forward-looking strategic planning process now underway to ensure the community continues to have access to high quality health care services for years to come. “We want to hear from all interested individuals both within our organization and throughout our community as our board explores various options and strategies to strengthen Porter Medical Center and enhance health care for our patients and residents” he said.
“This is an exciting and important time for Porter Medical Center as we consider what the future of our community hospital 
should look like in the years ahead,” said Maureen McLaughlin, Chair of the Board of Porter Medical Center. “We are eager to hear the community’s thoughts as we work to place Porter on sound financial footing, while maintaining the level of care and service the community needs to thrive.”
As part of this exploration, Porter has organized a Physicians Advisory Committee and a Community Advisory Committee to help hospital leaders evaluate options and analyze public feedback.
“This community discussion is an important part of our strategic exploration of future options and opportunities,” McLaughlin added. “It’s so important that folks come out and learn what our strategic issues are, and make their voices heard as we consider how best to shape Porter’s future.”
As part of the community engagement process, Porter is hosting three summer forums as well as offering an online questionnaire for those who cannot attend or wish to have their feedback remain anonymous. According to Hallman, Porter is considering all options including maintaining its existing independent structure, as well as affiliation with another larger organization. “This is a vitally important decision and community conversation, we hope people will actively participate and share their thoughts, ideas, concerns and comments” he said.
Below is the Community Forum schedule, all are welcome:
Middlebury – Regional EMS Headquarters
July 12, 2016 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
55 Collins Drive
Vergennes – Bixby Library
July 20, 2016 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
258 Main Street
Bristol – Holley Hall
July 26, 2016 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
1 South Street
For those who wish to take the online confidential survey, please visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PorterMedical
For more information about Porter Medical Center, visit: www.portermedical.org or call the public relations office at 388-4744.