I am pleased to serve as Chairman of the Sentara Healthcare Foundation. During the past year many kind notes have come to our hospitals regarding the excellent care extended to patients and their loved ones. Because of these acknowledgements of outstanding service the Sentara Healthcare Foundation continues to develop opportunities for grateful patients of Sentara Hospitals and programs to give to others in need.
It is tragic that hundreds of individuals do not have insurance or access to primary medical care in Hampton Roads. I know that I often wondered how those without insurance obtain treatment, medicines, or even lab tests. While Sentara treats anyone in need, regardless of their ability to pay, additional expenses for medicines and medical supplies after leaving the hospital can be a financial burden for those trying to heal. In order to address these needs, the Sentara Health Foundation maintains hundreds of patient assistance funds, like the Cancer Mission fund, where individuals make donations to help others right here in our community.
As a patient and Board Member, I am moved by the dedication and commitment represented throughout Sentara. Our community has an outstanding healthcare resource with Sentara. The growing level of philanthropic support is a confirmation that people truly appreciate the level of expertise and compassion and want to share that with those less fortunate. The Sentara Health Foundation Annual Report is just a small sampling of all the outstanding things that donors have made possible over this last year. We look forward to doing more each year.