Hudson Headwaters Celebrates its 40th Anniversary
2021 marks the 40th anniversary of Hudson Headwaters Health Network. As a part of a year-long celebration, the organization will share a retrospective of milestones while unveiling plans to secure and strengthen the next forty years of health care in the region.
In 1974, Dr. John Rugge began what would become Hudson Headwaters with a single health center in Chestertown, NY. The Network was officially incorporated as a community health center in 1981. Today, Hudson Headwaters comprises 21 community-based, primary care health centers, with a service area stretching from Saratoga to the Canadian Border; an area covering more than 7,200 square miles.
“Hudson Headwaters has always been about and for our communities,” explains Founder Dr. John Rugge. “Any celebration of Hudson Headwaters is first and foremost an expression of gratitude. This milestone is about the countless community members, staff, elected officials, donors and patients who together have made the organization what it is today.”
A special anniversary logo and “Forty Forward” theme have been created to mark the occasion. Both will be featured in special anniversary editions of the Hudson Headwaters Health magazine in May and November.
According to Jessica Rubin, VP of communications and philanthropy, the “Forty Forward” theme is about reflecting on the past with a focus on the future. “We will celebrate the legacy of Hudson Headwaters by reemphasizing our commitment to our patients, communities and partners,” she said. “The best way to do that is to envision the next forty years of accessible care.”
Over the next year, Hudson Headwaters will announce several strategic initiatives to expand health care access and enhance patient care. Priorities include improving its technology infrastructure, including telehealth capabilities, and building upon strong partnerships with local and regional health care and community organizations.
“2021 is all about looking forward,” said CEO of Hudson Headwaters Health Network Dr. Tucker Slingerland. “Our patients deserve forward-looking health care and Hudson Headwaters 40th anniversary is an opportunity to share what’s possible with the continued support of our communities and partners.”