Business View - June 2015 115
HEALTHCARE
preventative means. Education of the public is key for
a company viewed solely as a home care organization
in the past. Today, VON has a much broader mandate
which has evolved due to a real need in different re-
gions. The expanded profile includes community sup-
port services such as transportation, nutrition, assist-
ed living, adult day and respite care, and private pay for
those who may not qualify for government programs.
“It’s about appealing to all of the demographic root,”
says Poirier. “There may be a perception that we only
cater to seniors, but really, we provide a range of ser-
vices for the whole community – from newborns to pal-
liative care.”
The beauty of the VON model is the “grass roots” style
that takes regional differences into account when tai-
loring operations to suit the needs of the community,
in concert with funders. Poirier notes, “Often, provin-
cial governments have different funding models. We
adapt to those, while working closely with the govern-
ment to make sure we fulfill our obligations to see as
many clients as we can and offer the greatest care.”
Dealing with rules that vary by province is a challenge,
but one that benefits the big picture. “It certainly adds
a complexity,” Poirier admits, “but also a richness. If
we have developed a good practice (like our SMILE
program in Ontario), we will approach other provincial
governments to let them know we have an innovation
in another region that might be transported into their
own community. That seems to be resonating well.”
S.M.I.L.E
S.M.I.L.E. - Seniors Maintaining Independent Living
Easily - is about working with the government to assist
