Sponsored by North Country Hospital

Wednesday morning’s Coffee & Connections started with a lively round of introductions from attendees who each got to share a little about what’s new and up-and-coming from their businesses. It was an inspiring reminder of the incredible range of work being done in the Northeast Kingdom. Following introductions, we turned things over to North Country Hospital of Newport, sponsors of the morning’s gathering.

Many in the Kingdom are sure to be familiar with North Country Hospital, afterall, according to their annual report, in 2025 the rural hospital saw 16,000 emergency room visits, 37,000 primary care visits, and oversaw 155 births. With more than 600 employees (making them one of the region’s largest employers) they’re supporting working NEK families in ways that extend far beyond the office. Patients and employees of North Country Hospital “work, live and play” in the Northeast Kingdom noted Chief Operations Officer Tracy Paul.

Providing that care does not come without its challenges.

Curious community members asked about the dynamic between hospital leadership and the Green Mountain Care Board, the state appointed regulatory board responsible for “approving hospital budgets, regulating health insurance premium rates, overseeing major capital investments… and evaluating statewide payment and delivery system reforms.” There were concerns shared by those in attendance over the impact of that dynamic on things like affordability, access to services, and recruitment. What grew from there was a wonderful display of the nuanced and productive conversations that can come from the simple act of sharing coffee and stories with neighbors. 

Despite these challenges, North Country Hospital is persevering with a number of exciting developments. For example, to face workforce shortages, they are embracing a “grow your own” strategy. Through this approach, the hospital is excited to be putting resources behind programs that educate, train, and prepare to employ folks directly from the community .

Closing out the conversation, development officer Steve Gonyaw spoke to the group about the North Country Hospital Foundation, which seeks to support care “close to home" through a variety of means. Pillars of the foundation include Patient Support, Workforce & Education, Community Health & Safety, and Compassionate Care. Those interested can learn more and consider making donations at northcountryhospital.org/giving/. 

Next time

Thank you to everyone who joined us this month! With the changing of seasons, early mornings are inevitably becoming more of a chore. The sun rises lazily, the frost demands to be scraped from windshields, and yet, somehow, the work never seems to lull. But rest assured we don’t need to weather the season alone! Coffee & Connections is a wonderful way to fill your social and professional cup (not to mention your travel-mug). Starting your day with us twice a month is a great way to build your network and deepen your connection to the vibrant Northeast Kingdom community we all share. 

Please note, our next Coffee & Connections, typically scheduled to take place in Lyndon, will instead be popping up at the Brighton Town Hall Gymnasium as a part of NEK Together. Please reach out with any questions, and we hope to see you there!

Coffee & Connections is one of our favorite recurring events. Join us the first Wednesday of each month in Lyndon, and now, the third Wednesday of each month in Newport (in partnership with VT's North Country Chamber of Commerce). Check our calendar for upcoming dates and themes, and to discover even more great events!