Strempek Named Executive Director at Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care

HOLYOKE — Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care, a member of Valley Health Systems and affiliate to Holyoke Medical Center, has announced the appointment of Debra Strempek, RN, BSN, as its executive director.

“Debra brings a proven track record in administrative, fiscal and clinical functions in home care, hospital, and long-term rehab facilities,” said Spiros Hatiras, president and CEO of Valley Health Systems and Holyoke Medical Center. “Her patient-first mentality and approachable leadership style will help Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care enhance the delivery of high quality, compassionate health services to the communities we serve.”

Said Strempek, “I am honored to join the Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care team, with its experienced staff who are dedicated to providing superior, compassionate care in the homes of individuals and families throughout our region. I started my career 30 years ago at Holyoke Hospital and am excited to return and be a part of the Valley Health Systems family.”

Strempek will lead Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care, which has been serving the community since 1905. The organization offers a full range of home health care services which promote independence and quality of life. The professional team at Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care works with patients and their physicians to develop a plan of care which allows patients to remain safely at home. The team includes registered nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, social workers, home health aides, dieticians, interpreters, a chaplain, and volunteers. Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care cared for over 2,100 patients in the fiscal year 2018, which ended Sept. 30.

Strempek has an extensive background in homecare in both Massachusetts and Connecticut, and has overseen clinical, operational, budgetary, quality, marketing, and patient satisfaction components. She has served in the roles of clinician, administrator, director, and executive director for various facilities, including two start-up homecare agencies in eastern Massachusetts.

Strempek received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Our Lady of the Elms. She is currently licensed in nursing in Massachusetts, and previously had an additional nursing license in Connecticut. She is a certified CNA instructor for the American Red Cross and is a member of the National Nurses Assoc. Strempek is also a member of the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce.

“Throughout my career I have established many positive relationships with the long-term care facilities in Holyoke and throughout the Pioneer Valley, including with the Soldiers’ Home. I am excited to grow those relationships and build new connections in the community, as I believe it is critical to the continued success of the Holyoke VNA,” said Strempek.