Insights & Updates - Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care, Inc.

The Power of Partnership: Strengthening Suicide Care Transitions in the Northeast Kingdom

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:18:27 GMT

Improving suicide care requires strong systems, shared accountability, and seamless transitions across care settings, especially during moments of elevated risk. Through the 2025 Suicide Care in Healthcare Quality Improvement Initiative , Vermont healthcare and community partners are working together to strengthen suicide care pathways using evidence-informed practices, data, and quality improvement methods.

Facilitated by the Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care and funded by the Vermont Department of Health and the Vermont Department of Mental Health, the initiative supports teams in improving continuity of care, particularly during transitions from emergency departments to community-based services.

The work underway in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom offers a strong example of this approach in action. Building on long-standing partnerships, local hospital and community organizations came together to formalize a Safe Transitions Team focused on coordinated, sustainable suicide care. The story below highlights how collaboration, data, and flexibility helped strengthen care transitions and improve support for individuals at risk.

Author: Andrea Willey, LICSW, Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Community Health Team.

Rural communities face unique challenges in suicide prevention, particularly during transitions from emergency department (ED) care to community-based services. Individuals experiencing suicidal crises are at elevated risk during these transitions due to fragmented systems, limited behavioral health access, and inconsistent follow-up. In Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, community partners identified a critical need for a coordinated, evidence informed approach to improve continuity of care for individuals at risk for suicide following ED visits.

For years, Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital (NVRH) , Northern Counties Health Care (NCHC) , and Northeast Kingdom Human Services (NKHS) have collaborated to strengthen suicide care across hospital and community settings. Building on these trusted relationships, partners formalized a Safe Transitions Team focused on ensuring individuals at risk for suicide experience consistent, supportive, and connected care following emergency department encounters.

Through the 2025 Suicide Care in Healthcare Quality Improvement (QI) Initiative – a grant opportunity funded by the Vermont Departments of Health and Mental Health and facilitated by Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care – the team leveraged previous grant cycle progress and collaborated on the use of the Stanley Brown Safety Plan across emergency and community-based settings. This collaboration focused on Electronic Medical Record (EMR) integration of the Stanley Brown Safety Plan and the development of a standardized warm handoff pathway. Emergency department clinicians, NKHS Emergency Service team members, behavioral health specialists, peer support workers, and clinical care coordinators worked together to ensure safety plans followed patients beyond the ED and into the community.

Quality improvement efforts were guided by a combination of Results-Based Accountability (RBA) and Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) frameworks. Rather than creating new systems, partners aligned suicide prevention work with existing workflows, meetings, and quality initiatives, allowing the work to scale sustainably across settings.

Outcomes and Impact

Short-Term Outcomes
• Standardized safety planning implemented across ED and community partners
• Increased use of warm handoffs from the ED to community Providers including behavioral health services
• Improved communication and shared workflows across organizations

Intermediate Outcomes
• Greater continuity of care following ED visits for suicide risk
• Increased engagement with outpatient and community-based supports
• Improved staff confidence and shared ownership of suicide prevention efforts

Long-Term Outcomes
• Strengthened community-wide suicide prevention infrastructure
• Sustainable, data-informed care transition practices embedded into routine operations

Lessons Learned
• Progress over perfection: Starting with existing resources builds momentum and trust
• Data and evidence strengthen decision-making and partner alignment
• Flexibility is essential when working across organizations with different cultures and capacities
• Champions who bridge hospital and community systems are critical to success

Next Steps

Partners will continue tracking warm handoff utilization and readmission data to guide quality improvement. We will collectively, across systems, continue to work on innovative ways to measure and upskill staff confidence related to caring for those with elevated suicide risk. Future efforts will focus on expanding training, strengthening peer support and community health worker integration, and aligning suicide prevention work with additional quality and population health initiatives currently underway in the rural Northeast Kingdom.

Summary

By leaning in on long-standing partnerships, evidence-based practices, and shared commitment to accountability, rural communities in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom strengthened suicide care transitions. The Team took a scaffolding approach to sustainable and coordinated suicide prevention. The model demonstrates how system relationships, collaboration, data, and flexibility can improve outcomes for individuals at risk during critical moments of care transitions. Rather than introduce new systems, the approach emphasizes coordination, where feasible, between community-based and hospital-based efforts, supported by a point of contact whose aim was to align activities across settings. Designed with flexibility, and based on local capacity, priorities and readiness, this pathway could be leveraged for potential replication across other rural communities in Vermont.

Telehealth Resources

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 21:55:12 GMT

Telehealth Resource Guide: Tools and Guidance for Managing Suicide Risk in Telehealth Settings

This resource guide is designed to support mental health clinicians providing telehealth services focused on suicide prevention and treatment. It offers evidence-based guidelines, practical tools, and best practices for delivering high-quality, safe, and effective care in a virtual environment.* When viewed digitally, the guide is interactive and includes clickable links for quick access to referenced materials.

A virtual discussion with Vermont Medicaid and Vermont Office of Professional Regulation. Both provided an overview of their telehealth policies, followed by Q&A.

Kevin Crowley of CAMS Care (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality) led a discussion on suicide-safe care telehealth practices designed to protect both the patient and the provider. The session covered strategies for responding to and supporting patients when suicidal ideation is disclosed during a telehealth call, as well as approaches to collaborative documentation and stabilization planning in a telehealth setting.

Connecting Telehealth Clients to Local Resources

Representatives from 988, Pathways Vermont, and Community Mobile Crisis Program provided information about each service, how to connect clients to support and what to expect when you reach out.

A virtual discussion with Vermont Medicaid and Vermont Office of Professional Regulation. Both provided an overview of their telehealth policies, followed by Q&A.

Slides & Resources:

A Toolkit for Vermont Hospitals

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:23:12 GMT

Act 9 of 2025, An act relating to preventing workplace violence in hospitals, requires hospitals to develop and implement comprehensive security plans to prevent workplace violence. This toolkit is intended to help hospitals comply with Act 9. It contains resources to support hospital security plan development teams in assessing compliance and filling any gaps identified. The toolkit is designed to assist hospitals in improving workplace safety and managing aggressive behaviors.

Best Practices & VPQHC's Peer Review Program

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 18:51:16 GMT

Best Practices & VPQHC Peer Review Program

The Peer Review Best Practices & VPQHC Peer Review Program sessions featured expert perspectives on the importance of external peer review and the State and Federal statutes that are important to understanding and carrying out the Peer Review process.

The presentation also included an overview of VPQHC’s Statewide Peer Review Network, a resource designed to support Vermont hospitals with access to qualified peer reviewers and educational and training opportunities to strengthen peer review practices statewide.

Presenters included John Wallace, attorney at law and shareholder & vice president at Primmer, Piper, Eggleston & Cramer; Hillary Wolfley, executive director at VPQHC; and Randall Messier, QI specialist and peer review coordinator at VPQHC.

Please note: Both recordings include the same core presentation content. The only differences between them are the audience questions asked during each session.

November 5, 2025

November 13, 2025

John Wallace, Attorney at Law

Shareholder & Vice President, Primmer, Piper, Eggelston & Cramer

Hillary Wolfley, Executive Director VPQHC

Randall Messier, QI Specialist and Peer Review Coordinator, VPQHC

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:48:19 GMT

Sept. 1, 2025

At VPQHC, we're focused on turning awareness into action through the intersection of healthcare, quality improvement, and suicide care.

Suicide touches every corner of our communities, regardless of age, background, or geography. But hope is real. Help is available. Healing is possible.

This month, we honor those we've lost, uplift survivors, and continue to dedicate ourselves to building systems that protect, support, and empower people in crisis.

The VPQHC team is leading this important work through a multi-layered, compassionate approach to suicide care and response. We’re working alongside healthcare partners across the state to strengthen prevention, intervention, and healing efforts in real time. This work is rooted in our mission to reduce harm and save lives by advancing data-driven solutions that improve healthcare quality in Vermont. Some key initiatives underway include:

Vermont Suicide Prevention in the Emergency Department Quality Improvement Initiative
Our hospitals are often the first point of contact during a mental health crisis. Through this initiative, we’re enhancing suicide screening protocols, strengthening safety planning, and ensuring follow-up care is compassionate and effective.

Vermont Postvention Pilot Program
After a suicide loss, the ripples of grief can be overwhelming. Our Postvention Pilot Program supported both communities and healthcare providers in responding with compassion and structure. By addressing the trauma of loss head-on, we reduced the risk of additional suicides and helped survivors begin to heal.

2025 Suicide Care in Health Care Collaborative
Launching this year, the Collaborative brings together healthcare systems across the state to build safer, more responsive care environments for individuals at risk of suicide. A key part of this effort is equipping staff with evidence-based training programs, including:

· Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS)

· Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM)

· Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

· Stanley Brown Safety Planning Intervention (SB-SPI)

· Trauma Responsive Care (TRC)

By uniting providers in a shared mission and providing access to training opportunities, we're creating a more consistent and compassionate safety net for Vermonters in crisis.

Vermont Consultation & Psychiatry Access Program

VTCPAP improves access to high quality, evidence-based mental health care for children and perinatal patients in Vermont. To achieve this mission, VTCPAP offers suicide-specific trainings to medical and mental health providers, collaborates with statewide partners to promote resources and strengthen impact, and provides real-time consultation when suicide-related concerns arise. To enhance this support, VTCPAP has developed a dedicated Suicide Care webpage with up-to-date tools and information for providers and caregivers.

What You Can Do
While these systemic efforts are vital, each of us has a role to play in suicide prevention. That might mean checking in on a friend, reducing the stigma by talking openly about mental health, or learning how to recognize the warning signs of suicide. You don’t have to be a mental health professional to make a difference, you just have to care.

We want to highlight and acknowledge Suicide Prevention Month, but the work doesn’t end on September 30. Please join us in making a lifelong commitment to stand together to create a Vermont where every person feels seen, supported, and safe.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always available. Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7. For more resources, trainings, and educational opportunities, see the list below:

For training opportunities and resources:
Center for Health and Learning

For getting involved, resources, and real stories:
FacingSuicideVT

For real stories, resources, and getting involved:
American Foundation of Suicide Prevention-VT (AFSP)

Facing Suicide VT Events Calendar:

Upcoming Suicide Prevention Events/Training

For Resources, Initiatives and training opportunities:

Vermont Program for Quality in Healthcare

Together, we can save lives, through awareness, action, and connection.

#SuicidePrevention #988Lifeline #MentalHealthMatters #VPQHC

Healthcare Career Awareness Month: Spotlight on Quality Leader Heather Boucher

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 19:39:40 GMT

In recognition of Healthcare Career Awareness month, we’re spotlighting Heather Boucher, Senior Director of Quality, Risk and Compliance at Grace Cottage Hospital. Read on for more about Heather’s career trajectory, what inspired her to work in health care, and what a day-in-the-life looks like for a Hospital Quality Director.

Can you tell us a little about your background and what first inspired you to work in health care?

I actually started my career in the laboratory because I’ve always loved the sciences and enjoyed the problem-solving side of diagnostics. Working in the lab gave me a strong foundation in accuracy, data, and understanding how every detail can impact patient care. From there, I transitioned into infection prevention, which gave me a broader view of patient and staff safety and how systems protect both. That experience really opened the door to my current work in quality, where I can combine my scientific background, my eye for detail, and my commitment to safety to make sure patients receive the best care possible. What first inspired me to stay in healthcare is knowing that whether I was in the lab, infection prevention, or quality, the work I do behind the scenes directly supports patients and the teams who care for them.

How did you find your way into the role of Hospital Quality Director, and what has the journey been like so far?

My path into the Quality Director role has been very much a progression of building on each stage of my career. I started out as a medical laboratory scientist, which gave me a strong scientific and analytical foundation and taught me the importance of accuracy and detail in healthcare. From there, I moved into infection prevention, which broadened my focus to patient and staff safety at a systems level. That naturally led me to quality, first as an assistant, then into utilization review, and eventually into the quality manager role. Each step added new skills—whether it was learning regulatory requirements, working directly with providers, or leading improvement projects.

Now, as Senior Director of Quality, Risk, and Compliance, I oversee multiple departments, which has been both challenging and rewarding. The journey has taught me how interconnected quality, compliance, and patient safety truly are, and how important it is to engage staff at all levels to create a culture where improvement is part of everyday work. It’s been a growth journey, but one that’s deeply fulfilling because I can see the impact across the entire organization.

What does a “day in the life” look like for you at Grace Cottage?

A day in the life here is never the same, and that’s one of the things I enjoy most. On any given day I might be reviewing quality data, following up on regulatory requirements, or meeting with staff about performance improvement projects. I spend time supporting infection prevention and compliance, and I’m often consulting with different departments to help troubleshoot issues or identify opportunities to improve processes. Because I oversee multiple areas, my day is a balance of big-picture strategy and hands-on problem-solving. What ties it all together is that my focus is always on patient safety, staff support, and making sure we’re delivering the best possible care.

What’s your favorite memory or proudest moment from your time as a Quality Director?

There are many moments I’m proud of, but one that really stands out is building our infection prevention program from the ground up. When I first stepped into that role, we didn’t have a structured program in place, so it was a matter of creating policies, building staff education, and putting systems in place that were both practical and sustainable. What I’m most proud of is that the program not only took root but continues to be effective today — and it’s had a direct impact on patient safety. We’ve maintained an incredibly low rate of hospital-acquired infections, almost zero in fact, which speaks to the commitment of our staff and the strength of the program. Knowing that something I helped build continues to protect patients and support staff every day is very rewarding.

Vermont’s health care system is going through big changes. What advice would you give to help ensure quality stays at the center of transformation?

My advice is to make sure that quality isn’t treated as an afterthought to change, but as the foundation of it. With Act 167 bringing significant transformation to Vermont hospitals, it’s critical that decisions are made with patient outcomes and safety at the center. That means using data to guide improvements, engaging frontline staff in the process so changes are realistic and sustainable, and keeping communication transparent, so everyone understands the ‘why’ behind new initiatives. If we stay focused on quality as the common thread — ensuring access, safety, and measurable outcomes — the transformation will not only meet regulatory goals, but also truly benefit the communities we serve.

What skills, strengths, or perspectives do you think are most valuable in this field?

In healthcare quality, I think the most valuable strengths are multitasking, problem-solving, open-mindedness, perseverance, and follow-through. This work often means balancing many priorities at once, so being able to multitask is essential. Problem-solving helps us break down complex issues and find solutions that actually work in practice, while an open mind allows us to see different perspectives and adapt to change. Perseverance is key because improvement isn’t always immediate — it takes determination to keep moving forward when challenges arise. And finally, follow-through is what ensures that good ideas and plans translate into results. Together, these qualities help build lasting improvements in patient care and safety.

If someone was considering a career in health care quality, what advice would you give them?

My advice for someone considering a career in healthcare quality is to start slow and give yourself a chance to really learn what the field is about. I encourage people interested in healthcare to think about cost-effective two-year programs — like laboratory technician, radiology, or therapy assistant programs. Those paths let you get into the workforce quickly, gain experience, and often continue your education with support from your employer. It’s a great way to get exposure to healthcare quality without committing to a four-year degree right away, only to find out it’s not the right fit. Healthcare isn’t for everyone, but for those who find it rewarding, job security and opportunities for growth are there. From there, curiosity, persistence, and follow-through will carry you far in the healthcare field.

Heather Boucher

Senior Director of Quality, Risk and Compliance

Grace Cottage Hospital

Medicare Beneficiary Quality Improvement Program (MBQIP)

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 17:56:10 GMT

2025 Core Measure Set guide

VPQHC Presentation on 2025 Changes

National Resources:

National Rural Health Resource Center’s MBQIP page:

Rural Health Information Hub’s Main Page:

Rural Health Information Hub’s Page Overviewing Critical Access Hospitals:

Technical Assistance for the Rural Hospital Medicare Flexibility (Flex) Program:

Addressing Food Insecurity: Strategies, Stories & Solutions

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 06:33:53 GMT

The Addressing Food Insecurity: Strategies, Stories & Solutions session explored how healthcare settings can identify and respond to food insecurity through practical strategies, partnerships, and patient-centered solutions. It featured Rayna Andrews, nationally recognized food justice advocate and author, alongside Vermont hospital leaders who shared on-the-ground stories and implementation lessons. The session recording and linked resources are available below to support continued learning and action.

Feedback from participants:

“What I found most valuable was learning about addressing food insecurity and nutrition insecurity and the impact of this within the communities we serve and how to consider this within the work we are already doing.”

“Rayna’s knowledge on the topic was excellent.”

“I was made aware of how food insecurity can affect many populations and how we can help resolve the issues.”

Additional Resources:

Understanding Vermont Hospital Quality Reports Webinar Series

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:27:52 GMT

Exploring Vermont’s Hospital Quality & Patient Safety Landscape

VPQHC hosted a two-part webinar series in June 2025 examining Vermont’s hospital quality measurement system and patient safety program. The sessions clarified Vermont-specific hospital quality reports, shared recent findings, and explored approaches to quality improvement across the state.

Webinar 1:

Understanding Vermont’s Hospital Report Card

(June 18, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM)

This session explored the purpose and components of the Vermont Hospital Report Card, the use of public data to advance transparency, and featured a case example from Central Vermont Medical Center.

Webinar 2:

Vermont’s Patient Safety Program & 2024 Report

(June 25, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM)

This session highlighted key findings from Vermont’s 2024 Patient Safety Surveillance and Improvement System (PSSIS) report and discussed opportunities to strengthen statewide safety practices, with an overview of the culture of safety at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital.

2025 VPQHC Quality Improvement Training Series

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 22:55:07 GMT

Strengthening QI Foundations for Statewide Improvement and Impact

The 2025 VPQHC Quality Improvement Training Series offered six sessions from January through June, open to all healthcare professionals across Vermont. Each session focused on foundational QI concepts and practical tools to build capacity for improvement. Learning objectives and materials for each session are listed below.

For more information about the Quality Improvement Training Series, please contact Randy Messier ( RandallM@vpqhc.org ).

Session #1: Setting the Stage

January 28, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #1 Learning Objectives:

Understand the Program Structure: Describe the session process, content, dates, times, and expectations for participation.
Differentiate Types of Quality Improvement (QI): Distinguish between Quality Assurance, Quality Improvement, and QI Projects versus QI Initiatives.
Identify QI Methods: Recognize and compare various QI methods such as Lean/Six Sigma, IHI, DAMAIC, and Clinical Microsystems, understanding their strengths and limitations.
Utilize QI Tools: Explain the role of QI tools like RCA, FMEA, Fishbone Diagrams, Process Flow Maps, and A3 in the improvement process.

Session #2: Where To Start

February 18, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #2 Learning Objectives:

Understand Team-Based QI: Explain the importance of team-based QI, identify key team members, and distinguish between buy-in and ownership.
Facilitate Effective Team Meetings: Demonstrate how to structure team meetings using an agenda template, define roles, and manage time effectively.
Define and Assess the Problem: Differentiate between symptoms and problems, identify current state, and baseline data, and evaluate data within context.
Assess the Current State: Apply tools such as RCA and Process Flow Maps to identify where in the process the problem occurred.

Session #3: Focused Improvement

March 25, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #3 Learning Objectives:

Develop a Global Aim Statement: Review work to date, create a Global Aim Statement, and map the current process using a Process Flow Map.
Formulate Specific Aim Statements: Narrow down the focus to specific aims linked to the Global Aim.
Generate Change Ideas: Utilize Fishbone Diagrams, brainstorming, and multivoting techniques to develop and prioritize change ideas.

Session #4: PDSA Cycles & Measurement

April 29, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #4 Learning Objectives:

Create a PDSA Cycle Plan: Develop a PDSA cycle plan using a template, understand the importance of small sample sizes, time management, and measures.
Design a Measurement Plan: Identify process and outcome measures and set measurement goals.
Understand Simple Variation: Explain the concept of simple variation and determine when enough data has been collected before applying statistical analysis.

Session #5: Moving From PDSA to SDSA & Sustainability

May 20, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #5 Learning Objectives:

Transition from PDSA to SDSA: Determine when it is appropriate to move from PDSA to SDSA.
Develop a Sustainability Plan: Create a plan to ensure the sustainability of improvements.
Celebrate and Learn: Recognize achievements, celebrate wins, and learn from opportunities for improvement.

Session #6: Special Topics & Sharing

June 17, 2025, 12:00-1:30

Session #6 Learning Objectives:

Deeper dive into QI measurement
The 3 Worlds Model- Clinical, Operational and Financial measures
Feedforward and Feedback measurement systems
Importance of Communication in QI
Listening Well
Dealing with resistance
Tying it all together

An Introduction to Telepsychiatry in the ED: An Informational Video

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:22:41 GMT

Telepsychiatry in the ED: Expanding Access Through Virtual Care

A brief video introducing the role of telepsychiatry in emergency departments, highlighting how virtual psychiatric consultations improved timely access to care, supported ED staff, and enhanced patient outcomes.

Key Considerations for Implementing/Optimizing ED Telepsychiatry

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:19:21 GMT

A quick guide to staffing, technology, workflows, and partnerships for effective telepsychiatry in the ED.

Designed as a quick-reference tool for hospital leaders and care teams, the infographic outlines key considerations for launching or enhancing emergency department (ED) telepsychiatry services. Topics include staffing models, credentialing, technology setup, workflow integration, and collaboration with community partners—all aimed at improving access to timely psychiatric care through telehealth.

Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network Infographic

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:16:58 GMT

Key insights from Vermont’s telepsychiatry pilot, including satisfaction, impact on care, and implementation challenges.

The VETN 2023 Evaluation Infographic summarizes key findings from stakeholder interviews and surveys at two Vermont hospitals piloting emergency telepsychiatry services. It highlights high provider and patient satisfaction, benefits to care coordination and treatment timeliness, and the resource demands of implementation—especially for small hospitals—while also capturing Advisory Board engagement and support for program expansion.

Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network 2024 Evaluation Report

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:14:52 GMT

An in-depth look at telepsychiatry implementation, patient impact, and cost drivers at two Vermont hospitals to inform future policy and investment.

This study of the Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network examined patient characteristics, ED utilization, and the implementation costs of telepsychiatry at two Vermont hospitals. It offered detailed insights into start-up and service delivery expenses, patient length of stay, and reimbursement patterns—providing valuable data to guide future investments and policy decisions in telepsychiatry.

2024 Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network (VETN) Needs Assessment Landscape Scan

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:13:21 GMT

A statewide snapshot of ED telepsychiatry use, gaps, and strategies to improve access, coordination, and care integration.

The 2024 Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network (VETN) Landscape Scan provided a statewide snapshot of telepsychiatry use in Vermont emergency departments, highlighting current practices, challenges, and opportunities to improve timely access to psychiatric care. The report identified gaps in service coordination and outlined actionable strategies to strengthen integration, reduce wait times, and enhance collaboration between hospitals and community mental health providers.

Telehealth Q&A: A Discussion with Vermont Payers

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:10:44 GMT

A virtual discussion with Vermont Medicaid and Vermont Office of Professional Regulation. Both provided an overview of their telehealth policies, followed by Q&A.

Slides & Resources:

Connecting Telehealth Clients to Local Resources

sofia@northeastkingdomonline.com (Sofia Dimartino) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:09:20 GMT

Connecting Telehealth Clients to Local Resources

Representatives from 988, Pathways Vermont, and Community Mobile Crisis Program provided information about each service, how to connect clients to support and what to expect when you reach out.

Slides & Resources:

Vermont Audio-Only Telemedicine & Clinical Quality Tracking Sheet

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:05:33 GMT

Vermont Audio-Only Telemedicine & Clinical Quality Tracking Sheet

VPQHC has been tracking the research related to clinical quality and audio-only telemedicine. This tracking sheet is updated every six months. The last update was made in December 2025.

Resources:

Video Feature: Vermont Suicide Prevention in Emergency Departments Quality Improvement Initiative

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 13:01:04 GMT

A look inside Vermont’s statewide effort to strengthen suicide-safer care in emergency departments through collaboration and evidence-based practices.

Learn how hospitals across Vermont are working together to strengthen suicide-safer care in emergency departments. This video highlights the Suicide Prevention in the ED Quality Improvement Initiative—a statewide effort driven by collaboration, evidence-based practices, and a shared commitment to compassionate, and effective, care.

CAMS Overview Webinar

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:58:44 GMT

An introduction to the CAMS framework and its role in suicide assessment and treatment.

Dr. Kevin Crowley, director of training and implementation at CAMS-care, provides an in-depth introduction to the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality (CAMS) framework. This webinar explores the evidence base behind CAMS, its use in clinical practice, and key considerations for applying it as both an assessment and treatment model. Dr. Crowley also discusses how this evidence-based approach supports effective, person-centered care for individuals at risk of suicide.

Essential Elements of a Suicide Care Pathway

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:56:15 GMT

A framework to guide safer, more effective, and coordinated suicide care across healthcare settings.

The Essential Elements of a Suicide Care Pathway offer a clear framework to help healthcare organizations provide safer, more effective, and more coordinated care for individuals at risk of suicide. Designed to support system-wide improvement, the resource promotes alignment with best practices in suicide care.

Workplace Violence in Hospital Settings: VPQHC Report to the Legislature 2024

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:51:20 GMT

Findings and recommendations to strengthen workplace violence prevention in Vermont hospitals.

This VPQHC report, prepared under Vermont’s Act 24, examines workplace violence prevention efforts in Vermont hospitals—offering a literature review, statewide assessment findings, and recommendations to strengthen training, reporting, infrastructure, and equity-informed practices.

2025 Telehealth Utilization Report

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:42:25 GMT

2025 Telehealth Utilization Report

Explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities in Vermont’s telehealth landscape with VPQHC’s 2025 Telehealth Utilization Report—a data-driven look at usage patterns and insights from across the state.

VPQHC 2022 Impact Report

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 12:39:15 GMT

VPQHC 2022 Impact Report

Explore VPQHC’s 2022 Impact Report to see how we advanced healthcare quality and safety across Vermont through collaborative initiatives, data-driven improvements, and statewide partnerships. This report highlights key achievements, stories from the field, and our continued commitment to better care for all Vermonters.

Vermont Hospital Quality Metrics Crosswalk

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:55:01 GMT

Vermont Hospital Quality Metrics Crosswalk

Explore a crosswalk of National Quality Forum (NQF) quality measures reported by each Vermont hospital, offering a clear snapshot of statewide participation in endorsed measure reporting. Last updated in May 2024, the resource supports transparency and alignment in healthcare quality efforts.

Vermont Patient Safety Forms

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 13:15:03 GMT

The Patient Safety Surveillance and Improvement System (PSSIS) was created for the purpose of improving patient safety, eliminating adverse events in Vermont hospitals, and supporting and facilitating quality improvement efforts by hospitals. The Vermont Department of Health is charged by statute to operate the PSSIS, and contracts with VPQHC to administer the System.

Reporting Forms:

According to State statute (and the PSSIS Rule), each Vermont hospital must:

Establish internal policies and procedures to identify, track and analyze all adverse events and near misses
Report to the Patient Safety Surveillance and Improvement System incidences of any of the National Quality Forum's serious reportable events, and for each event:
Conduct an appropriate causal analysis (and file with the PSSIS)
Develop and implement a corrective action plan (and file with the PSSIS)
Report any incidence of an intentional unsafe acts (defined in the PSSIS Final Rule)
Develop Disclosure policies and procedures delineating when and how to provide and document disclosure
Cooperate with periodic on-site monitoring visits

Annual Patient Safety Reports

Wed, 28 May 2025 15:17:19 GMT

Vermont Patient Safety and Surveillance Improvement System Annual Reports

Annual reports from the Vermont Patient Safety Surveillance and Improvement System summarizing statewide trends, identified learning opportunities, and offering recommendations to strengthen patient safety across healthcare settings.

Trauma Responsive Care

Wed, 28 May 2025 15:08:34 GMT

The Trauma Responsive Care (TRC) in Emergency Departments (EDs) training supports ED leaders and teams in creating safer, more supportive environments for patients and staff. This training is delivered by an expert team that includes two clinician educators and a peer-support specialist.

This initiative helps hospitals respond more effectively to the growing complexity of patient needs while also supporting the workforce delivering care in a stressful environment.

Resources and reports related to Trauma Responsive Care can be found below.

Trauma Responsive Care in Emergency Departments Toolkit

This toolkit offers practical strategies and resources to support trauma-responsive care in the emergency department setting, with a focus on creating safe, supportive environments for both patients and staff.

Trauma Responsive Care in Emergency Departments Technical Assistance

These resources are geared for ED and hospital leaders supporting staff with trauma-responsive care in the ED setting. The Micro-Debriefing presentation contains guidance on communicating with staff immediately after a traumatic event. The Peer-to-Peer Support Groups for Hospital Staff presentation has instructions on how to plan, structure, launch, and sustain peer support groups for staff experiencing secondary traumatic stress. The TRC flyer template is intended for individual hospitals to customize and post resources to support staff in distress.

Trauma Responsive Care:

Organization Assessment of Vermont Hospitals

This report summarizes strengths and opportunities for improvement related to trauma-responsive care in emergency departments and is based on a 2025 assessment of 14 Vermont hospitals.

CAMS Care in a Telehealth Setting

Wed, 28 May 2025 14:36:48 GMT

Telehealth Suicide Safer Care Webinar Series:
CAMS Care in a Telehealth Setting

Slides & Resources:

CAMS Care in a Telehealth Setting

Recognizing the Vital Role of Medical Laboratory Professionals

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:33:24 GMT

April 21, 2025

VPQHC proudly joined healthcare organizations nationwide in celebrating Medical Laboratory Professionals Week —a time to recognize the essential contributions of laboratory professionals to patient care, public health, and the overall quality of our healthcare system.

Although their work often happens behind the scenes, medical laboratory professionals are at the heart of healthcare delivery. From routine blood tests to complex diagnostics, their expertise informs decisions that directly impact patient outcomes and population health.

Did you know? Approximately 70% of clinical decisions are based on laboratory test results. That statistic underscores just how central lab professionals are to ensuring safe, effective, and timely care.

In recognition of the critical role these professionals play, Governor Phil Scott has issued an official state proclamation honoring Medical Laboratory Professionals Week in Vermont. This acknowledgment highlights their impact and raises awareness of the profession’s importance across the state.

Click here to read the full proclamation.

At VPQHC, we recognize and deeply appreciate the dedication, precision, and professionalism of Vermont’s laboratory workforce. Your work supports every corner of our healthcare system—and helps build healthier communities across the state.

Thank you for all you do.

#LabWeek #MedicalLaboratoryProfessionals #VermontHealthcare #HealthcareQuality #PublicHealth

Universal Suicide Screening at Vermont's Northwestern Medical Center: A Model for Systems Change

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:31:09 GMT

April 17, 2025

Systems change doesn’t happen overnight.

It takes persistence.
It takes leadership.
It takes resources, vulnerability, and—above all—collaboration.

At VPQHC, we are proud to recognize the significant work underway at Northwestern Medical Center (NMC) and Northwestern Counseling & Support Services (NCSS) , who have partnered to implement a universal suicide screening process in the NMC Emergency Department . This transformative step ensures that every patient age 12 and older is screened for suicide risk —regardless of the reason for their visit.

Historically, suicide risk screening in emergency departments has been limited to patients presenting with mental health complaints. Yet we know that suicide risk is often hidden, and relying solely on visible cues or presenting complaints leads to missed opportunities for intervention.

NMC’s new approach changes that.

Over the first eight weeks of implementation:

251 patients were identified as having suicide-related concerns.
53 were actively considering suicide.
11 individuals disclosed suicidal thoughts despite arriving with primary medical (non-mental-health) complaints.

These data are both sobering and affirming. They confirm what research has long suggested: universal screening saves lives . By integrating universal, evidence-based screening tools into the ED workflow, NMC and NCSS are identifying individuals who may have otherwise gone unnoticed.

This work is part of VPQHC’s Vermont Suicide Prevention in Emergency Departments Quality Improvement Initiative —a multi-year, statewide effort to improve care for individuals experiencing suicidality. The initiative is supported by the Four Pines Fund , the Vermont Department of Health , and The Vermont Community Foundation , and is grounded in national best practices, including the subject matter expertise of Dr. Edwin Boudreaux , whose leadership in suicide care continues to shape tools and training across Vermont.

In addition to identifying risk, the partnership between clinical and crisis response teams has strengthened patient follow-up and continuity of care. As Kevin King, a longtime ED nurse now serving as a crisis clinician with NCSS, shared: “This approach allows us to catch concerns earlier, make more informed decisions, and connect people to the support they need—when they need it most.”

We applaud the leadership at NMC and NCSS for their commitment to this critical work, and for serving as a model of what’s possible when healthcare organizations work together toward a shared goal: preventing suicide and improving care for every patient.

To learn more about the NMC/NCSS collaboration, read the full article:
�� NMC Collaborates with NCSS to Implement Universal Suicide Screening Process

To learn more about VPQHC’s statewide initiative:
�� Vermont Suicide Prevention in Emergency Departments QI Initiative

Healthcare Planning That Matters: Vermont Advance Directive Week 2025

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:25:30 GMT

As we recognize Vermont Advance Directive Week (April 13-19) and National Healthcare Decisions Day (April 16) , we at VPQHC encourage all Vermonters to document their healthcare wishes. Completed advance directives ensure your healthcare providers honor your preferences, even when you cannot speak for yourself.

Why complete an advance directive?

Ensures your voice is heard. Document your healthcare preferences and appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions if you're unable to communicate. Without this guidance, decisions may not align with your values and wishes.
Reduces burden on loved ones. Making healthcare decisions for a family member during a crisis is emotionally overwhelming. Clear documentation spares your loved ones from guessing your preferences and prevents potential conflict.

Take action today:

Complete your Advance Directive form: https://vtethicsnetwork.org/forms
Share copies with your healthcare providers, designated agent, and family
Register your form with the Vermont Advance Directive Registry
Discuss your healthcare values with friends and loved ones

Have questions? Your healthcare provider is an excellent resource for discussing advance care planning during your next appointment.

Advance care planning isn't just paperwork – it's a gift ensuring your healthcare wishes will be respected when it matters most. This Vermont Advance Directive Week, take this important step for yourself and those who care about you.

For more information about Vermont Advance Directive Week and available resources, visit the Vermont Ethics Network's website .

Elevating Patient Safety: A Spotlight on Rutland Regional Medical Center

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:35:00 GMT

At VPQHC, we believe healthcare quality starts with patient safety. Rutland Regional Medical Center (RRMC) was recently featured for its ongoing efforts to strengthen patient safety , enhance communication , and build a culture of quality care .

Patient safety isn’t just about policies— it’s about people . At RRMC, initiatives focus on strengthening communication across teams, using real-time data to enhance care decisions, and continuously seeking ways to improve processes. Their approach has not only created safer environments for patients but also empowered staff with the tools and training necessary to deliver high-quality care every day.

These efforts reflect a broader mission we share: ensuring that all patients receive care in settings where safety is the top priority . RRMC’s story serves as a powerful example of what’s possible when healthcare teams work together to put patient safety first.

We’re thrilled to see these initiatives gaining recognition and hope they inspire other hospitals across the state to prioritize safety and quality in new and innovative ways.

Center for Health and Learning & Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care to Lead Suicide Prevention Efforts Across the State

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 02:25:00 GMT

Vermont Establishes First Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention

The Vermont Department of Mental Health has launched the state's inaugural Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, partnering with the Center for Health and Learning (CHL) and the Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care (VPQHC). This initiative aims to unify healthcare providers and community partners to enhance suicide prevention efforts. VPQHC will implement the Zero Suicide framework in healthcare settings, providing tools like safety planning and resources for supporting patients experiencing suicidality. CHL will lead community-based initiatives, including the Vermont Suicide Prevention Coalition and expanding trainings such as Umatter®. For more information and resources, visit FacingSuicideVT.com . If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

VPQHC Featured in Pew Report on Suicide Prevention in Healthcare

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 21:33:00 GMT

The Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care (VPQHC) is honored to be featured in a recent report by The Pew Charitable Trusts , highlighting the critical role of quality improvement (QI) interventions in suicide prevention efforts. The report, State Policy Can Improve Suicide Prevention in Health Care Settings , underscores how state-level policy and healthcare initiatives can work together to reduce suicide rates.

The Power of QI Interventions in Suicide Prevention

The Pew report emphasizes how QI interventions in healthcare settings can be instrumental in reducing suicide risks. These interventions include:

Research shows that these steps, when implemented consistently, can make a significant difference in preventing suicide. Vermont’s approach—rooted in collaboration and data-driven quality improvement—sets an example for other states looking to enhance their suicide prevention efforts.

Moving Forward

The Pew report reinforces the importance of integrating QI interventions into healthcare policies and practices. We encourage policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to explore The Pew Charitable Trusts’ report and join us in strengthening suicide prevention strategies across Vermont.

�� Read the full Pew report here: State Policy Can Improve Suicide Prevention in Health Care Settings .

The Complexity of Quality in Healthcare—Star Ratings and Letter Grades Only Tell Part of the Story

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:12:00 GMT

Healthcare has been in the news a lot in Vermont recently, with many conversations about how to balance three key priorities: access, affordability, and quality. Of these, quality is perhaps the least understood—and the hardest to measure. Yet, it is essential. As patients, we naturally want clear answers: Is this hospital safe? Will I receive high-quality care? Tools like hospital star ratings and report cards have emerged to simplify complex healthcare data, offering insights into hospital quality through platforms such as CMS Care Compare and Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades. While these tools provide valuable information, to use them effectively, it’s important that Vermonters understand their strengths, limitations, and gaps. Armed with this important information, we can make more informed decisions and improvements within our health care system.

The Allure and Limits of Simplified Ratings

CMS’s Care Compare assigns hospitals a star rating (one to five) based on factors such as safety, clinical outcomes, and patient experience, using standardized data. This system offers advantages, including adjusted data for fair comparisons and broad types of quality measures. However, overall ratings can mask individual strengths and weaknesses, and the ratings primarily reflect care for Medicare patients. Smaller rural hospitals, such as many in Vermont, often have data on certain measures that are not publicly displayed due to low patient volumes. Additionally, data lags can result in ratings that may not accurately reflect current performance.

Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades assign hospitals a letter grade (A through F) based on safety performance, focusing on metrics such as infection prevention and surgical outcomes. This emphasis on safety encourages hospitals to adopt proven safety methods that reduce harm. However, much of Leapfrog's data is self-reported, and in Vermont, where many hospitals may not participate in Leapfrog’s voluntary survey, accurate comparisons are challenging. Only six of the state's fourteen hospitals are included, and Leapfrog's narrow scope limits its representation of broader dimensions of quality. Furthermore, data lags hinder the ability to accurately evaluate current performance.

The Bottom Line

Star ratings and letter grades are useful tools for highlighting healthcare quality and sparking conversations about care. However, we can make more informed healthcare decisions by considering the following:

By embracing the complexity of healthcare quality and leveraging multiple tools, we can continue to foster a system rooted in transparency, collaboration, and better care for all.

Insights & Updates - Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care, Inc.

The Power of Partnership: Strengthening Suicide Care Transitions in the Northeast Kingdom

Telehealth Resources

A Toolkit for Vermont Hospitals

Best Practices & VPQHC's Peer Review Program

Best Practices & VPQHC Peer Review Program

November 5, 2025

November 13, 2025

September is National Suicide Prevention Month

Healthcare Career Awareness Month: Spotlight on Quality Leader Heather Boucher

Medicare Beneficiary Quality Improvement Program (MBQIP)

2025 Core Measure Set guide

VPQHC Presentation on 2025 Changes

National Resources:

National Rural Health Resource Center’s MBQIP page:

Rural Health Information Hub’s Main Page:

Rural Health Information Hub’s Page Overviewing Critical Access Hospitals:

Technical Assistance for the Rural Hospital Medicare Flexibility (Flex) Program:

Addressing Food Insecurity: Strategies, Stories & Solutions

Additional Resources:

Understanding Vermont Hospital Quality Reports Webinar Series

Exploring Vermont’s Hospital Quality & Patient Safety Landscape

Webinar 1:

Understanding Vermont’s Hospital Report Card

(June 18, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM)

Webinar 2:

Vermont’s Patient Safety Program & 2024 Report

﻿ (June 25, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM)

2025 VPQHC Quality Improvement Training Series

Strengthening QI Foundations for Statewide Improvement and Impact

Session #1: Setting the Stage

Session #2: Where To Start

Session #3: Focused Improvement

Session #4: PDSA Cycles & Measurement

Session #5: Moving From PDSA to SDSA & Sustainability

Session #6: Special Topics & Sharing

An Introduction to Telepsychiatry in the ED: An Informational Video

Telepsychiatry in the ED: Expanding Access Through Virtual Care

Key Considerations for Implementing/Optimizing ED Telepsychiatry

A quick guide to staffing, technology, workflows, and partnerships for effective telepsychiatry in the ED.

Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network Infographic

Key insights from Vermont’s telepsychiatry pilot, including satisfaction, impact on care, and implementation challenges.

Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network 2024 Evaluation Report

An in-depth look at telepsychiatry implementation, patient impact, and cost drivers at two Vermont hospitals to inform future policy and investment.

2024 Vermont Emergency Telepsychiatry Network (VETN) Needs Assessment Landscape Scan

A statewide snapshot of ED telepsychiatry use, gaps, and strategies to improve access, coordination, and care integration.

Telehealth Q&A: A Discussion with Vermont Payers

Slides & Resources:

Connecting Telehealth Clients to Local Resources

Slides & Resources:

Vermont Audio-Only Telemedicine & Clinical Quality Tracking Sheet

Vermont Audio-Only Telemedicine & Clinical Quality Tracking Sheet

Video Feature: Vermont Suicide Prevention in Emergency Departments Quality Improvement Initiative

CAMS Overview Webinar

An introduction to the CAMS framework and its role in suicide assessment and treatment. ﻿

Essential Elements of a Suicide Care Pathway

A framework to guide safer, more effective, and coordinated suicide care across healthcare settings.

Workplace Violence in Hospital Settings: VPQHC Report to the Legislature 2024

Findings and recommendations to strengthen workplace violence prevention in Vermont hospitals.

2025 Telehealth Utilization Report

2025 Telehealth Utilization Report

VPQHC 2022 Impact Report

VPQHC 2022 Impact Report

Vermont Hospital Quality Metrics Crosswalk

Vermont Hospital Quality Metrics Crosswalk

Vermont Patient Safety Forms

Reporting Forms:

Annual Patient Safety Reports

Vermont Patient Safety and Surveillance Improvement System Annual Reports

Trauma Responsive Care

Trauma Responsive Care in Emergency Departments Toolkit

Trauma Responsive Care in Emergency Departments Technical Assistance

Trauma Responsive Care:

﻿ Organization Assessment of Vermont Hospitals

CAMS Care in a Telehealth Setting

Slides & Resources:

Recognizing the Vital Role of Medical Laboratory Professionals

Universal Suicide Screening at Vermont's Northwestern Medical Center: A Model for Systems Change

Healthcare Planning That Matters: Vermont Advance Directive Week 2025

Why complete an advance directive?

(June 25, 2025 | 12:00–1:00 PM)

An introduction to the CAMS framework and its role in suicide assessment and treatment.

Organization Assessment of Vermont Hospitals