Cavhcs clc rated 5-stars and ranked 1st in the nation | va central alabama health care | veterans affairs

The Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System New Horizon Community Living Center (CLC) continues to set the standard for nursing homes with 11 consecutive quarters at a 5-star rating and

ranking #1 in the Nation. “This is a great achievement and a great feeling to know that all of our hard work and dedication has proven to be successful,” said Chief of Geriatrics and

Extended Care, Dr. Audrey Hodge. “The trouble with being number one in the Nation is that it takes a certain mentality to attain that position, and that is something of a driving,

perfectionist attitude so that once you do achieve number one, you don’t relax and enjoy it,” said Tonya Spann-Davis, Nursing and Patient Care. “Being number one can mean overcoming your own

weaknesses. Regardless, you need to have a clear ambition. When you are clear, focus on it and believe in it. Believe in your team and you will succeed in pursuing the team goal,”

Spann-Davis said.   This performance rating places CAVHCS’ community living center first among the top-performing in the 134 VA Community Living Centers, home to more than 30,000 Veterans

nationally. “Teamwork is the key. The staff is flexible and adaptable to change and adjustments to provide quality care,” said Marilyn Scott, Associate Chief Nurse of Geriatrics. During the

COVID-19 pandemic, our health care professionals must perform at a high level to ensure the safety and comfort of our most vulnerable Veterans. VA implemented infection prevention and

control measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 within CLCs. Although our CLC continues achieving a 5-star rating, staff push the envelope to sustain goals such as achieving a number 1

ranking in the Nation.  "It’s a great accomplishment to keep our Veterans safe and continue to have positive outcomes," said Nurse Manager Adelaide Sweeten-Stoudemire.        “They

take the best care of Keeshawn and the other Veterans who are there. I don’t have the words to thank them enough for what they do,” said Mary Watson. Visits by family members have resumed

and are carefully scheduled to maintain public health discipline for the well-being of the residents, staff and visitors. For more information about VA Community Living Centers, visit 

https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/VA_Community_Living_Centers.asp