March 6, 2012 | by Patricia Sheehan

2012 OPTIMA Award: Call for submissions!

It’s time once again for LTC providers to reflect on innovative programs their teams have created to deliver the best resident-centered care and share them with Long-Term Living for the chance to receive our prestigious annual OPTIMA Award.

We’re now accepting entries for the 17thannual award, which continues a strong tradition of recognizing resident-centered care administered by staff who go above and beyond the call of duty.

To enter, click here to download the submission guidelines. From there, it’s simple: Describe an innovative resident-focused care program you’ve created. Tell us about the “before and after,” and explain how your staff has been involved in implementing the program. Entries are due May 25, 2012.

Last year’s winner, Villa Crest, Manchester, N.H., won our OPTIMA Award with its innovative dining program that positively engaged residents, staff and families and met the need for resident choice, flexibility, socialization and satisfaction.

Winning organizations have reaped the benefits of being an OPTIMA Award winner, which include:

  • an article on the winning entry published in the September issue of Long-Term Living;
  • mention in local media, acknowledgement by government officials and recognition by other LTC communities nationwide; and
  • a handsome trophy to display for residents, staff and visitors.

I’ve seen first-hand the benefits of the recognition when I’ve visited winning communities. Administrators, staff, residents and visitors beam with pride and are eager to share the other qualities and programs that make their places so special. It’s a visit I always look forward to.

Perhaps I’ll be visiting your community this year.  

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Topics: Staffing