Area Law Enforcement Salute Medical Professionals of SVMC

BENNINGTON, VT—April 2, 2020—At 8 a.m. this morning, local law enforcement agencies—including those from the Bennington Police Department, Bennington Sheriff’s Department, Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Department, and Vermont State Police—paid a special visit to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), part of Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC).

Dozens of law enforcement vehicles paraded up Hospital Drive, with lights only, stopped in front of the entrance for approximately 60 seconds, and got out of their vehicles as a salute staff. Staff had been notified last night, and many were outside to receive the honor.

Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette made an impromptu address. “On behalf of Bennington Law Enforcement and law enforcement in New York, we appreciate everything that the staff at the medical center does, not just during COVID-19, but throughout the year,” he said.

SVHC’s President and CEO Tom Dee echoed Chief Doucette’s appreciation with thanks for the longstanding cooperation between the hospital and law enforcement agencies.

“I can think of no better partner during this time and every day,” said Dee. “You are here for us every day, 24 hours a day. You do a tremendous job. On behalf of SVHC, thank you.”

About SVHC:
Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC) is a comprehensive, preeminent, health care system providing exceptional, convenient, and affordable care to the communities of Bennington and Windham Counties of Vermont, eastern Rensselaer and Washington Counties of New York, and northern Berkshire County in Massachusetts. SVHC includes Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), Southwestern Vermont Regional Cancer Center, the Centers for Living and Rehabilitation, and the SVHC Foundation. SVMC includes 25 primary and specialty care practices.

A COVID-19 information hotline is available for community members. The number, 802-440-8844, is answered 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on weekdays. A recorded message provides the most frequently requested information. Telephone numbers and other COVID-19 information, including frequently asked questions and helpful resources, are available at svhealthcare.org/covid-19.

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center provides exceptional care without discriminating on the basis of an individual’s age, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, language, physical or mental disability, socioeconomic status, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. Language assistance services, free of charge, are available at 1-800-367-9559.