A Message From Our Leadership

Dear Friends,

This year’s theme, Rooted & Ready, reflects exactly who we are at Gifford.

We are rooted in our history as a community health system that has cared for generations of families. At the same time, we are ready — ready to strengthen access, adapt to change, and play an essential role in the future of health care in Vermont.

This past year marked the first year of a focused three-year plan to return Gifford to financial breakeven. After several challenging years for rural hospitals across the country, we committed to disciplined, thoughtful change — improving access, strengthening partnerships, managing costs responsibly, and increasing productivity. Year one is now behind us, and we have made substantial progress. While challenges remain, our financial position has improved meaningfully, and we are moving in the right direction.

At the same time, we recognize that health care is facing extraordinary uncertainty — nationally and here in Vermont. Payment reform, workforce shortages, regulatory changes, and affordability pressures affect every hospital and every family. These are unique and complex times. Please know that Gifford’s leadership team and Board are actively monitoring these developments and responding with focus and care to ensure our community continues to have access to high-quality, local health services.

Amid this broader landscape, we have continued to make steady progress close to home. We reduced waitlists, expanded primary care and pediatric availability, and welcomed more patients into our hospital through stronger coordination with regional partners. More people are receiving care close to home — where support systems and familiar providers make all the difference.

We also continued to meet patients and families at life’s most important moments. From women’s health and our Birthing Center to chaplaincy services and compassionate end-of-life care supported by the Last Mile Ride, our focus remains on caring for the whole person at every stage of life.

Looking ahead means investing in people. Our commitment to workforce development and “growing our own” ensures that skilled, compassionate professionals will continue to serve this community. The awards and recognitions highlighted in this report reflect the pride and dedication of our team.

Health care is evolving, and Gifford is evolving with it. Through collaboration, careful stewardship, and a commitment to delivering the right care in the right place at the right time, we are strengthening our organization while preserving what matters most: local access, personal relationships, and care deeply rooted in our communities.

Thank you for being part of Gifford’s story. Because of you, we remain rooted in our mission — and ready for the future.

With gratitude,

Michael Costa
President & CEO

Jeffrey Nelb
Chair, Board of Trustees