March 14-18, 2022 is National Long Term-Care Administrator’s Week. During this week, Supply360 will unite with facility staff, residents, families, and volunteers for the opportunity to say “thank you” and honor the administrators who lead our nation’s long-term care communities. This year, Administrator’s Week continues to have added significance due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. For nearly two years, long-term care facilities across the nation have faced an enormous, unforeseen challenge that has resulted in everyone working in long-term care to stepping up and going above and beyond expectations. Our nation’s long-term care administrators have led the way in the battle with this virus and they will continue to fight to protect their facilities, residents and employees.
History of week
There are an estimated 44,500 nursing homes and residential care communities in America that care for nearly 2 million residents. Since 1994, the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) has sponsored National Long Term-Care Administrator’s Week each March. The observance honors and celebrates the important role administrators have in providing leadership for the delivery of quality, resident-centered care and a supportive work environment for staff.
Administrators facing the challenge
The physical and emotional toll of caring for residents during a pandemic has placed undue strain on long-term care professionals. They have been thrust into an unwanted spotlight and often faced harsh public criticism. Subject to a conflicting and changing regulatory environment, without adequate staffing and with ever-changing directives from local, state, and national agencies, these administrators have been on the job throughout it all. Sadly, some lost their lives. Now, with COVID-19 vaccines capable of mitigating the severity of the virus and reducing the risk of death, these leaders can take a breath. The nation owes our long-term care administrators a debt of gratitude. Let us take some time to show our appreciation to these leaders.
Administrators are important
Administrators are key players in the care team and are entrusted with the responsibility of managing the care of others’ loved ones. They touch the lives of residents and families, and, most importantly, ensure that their staff provides the highest level of quality care to a vulnerable population. Becoming an administrator takes commitment and dedication. They undertake a rigorous internship, followed by state and national exams. Upon becoming an administrator, they must continue life-long learning to provide the best care possible. They are masters of multi-tasking, taking into account every aspect of a person’s life, not just their medical needs, while building a sense of home and community.
“Each day our members give their all to assure their communities are equipped to provide high-quality care and services to the elders in their care. They embody servant leadership by putting the needs of their patients, residents, families and co-workers ahead of their own,” said Bob Lane, CNHA, FACHCA, president and CEO of ACHCA. “The staff of ACHCA is honored and privileged to know them and to support their professional development through the College.”
Along with the American College of Health Care Administrators, Supply360 commends, salutes and thanks the administrators in nursing homes, assisted living residences and all post-acute and aging service settings – we know they are committed to providing excellent quality of care and quality of life for those entrusted to their care. Congratulations on a job very well done and have a very happy National Long Term-Care Administrator’s Week!
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