PCV Launches 2025 with Medical Education

Patient Choices Vermont Board Member Dr. Diana Barnard launched the year with a presentation to more than 100 participants as part of Dartmouth Health’s medical education program, Palliative Care ECHO 4.0: Improving Care for Those with Serious Illness. Palliative care clinicians play a vital role in managing complex symptoms, collaborating with patients and families to establish care aligned with the individual's goals, and enhancing the quality of life for those facing serious illnesses. In her presentation, Dr. Barnard underscored the critical importance of informing all medical professionals about the option of medical aid in dying and equipping them with the conversational tools necessary to honor patient values.

Dr. Diana Barnard

Given that many physicians within the Dartmouth network are licensed to practice both in New Hampshire and Vermont, they can facilitate access to medical aid in dying in Vermont for patients who meet the qualifications. We are grateful for the opportunity to educate more professionals within this network which serves thousands of Vermonters.

Amy Bruce’s First Month

PCV’s new Executive Director, Amy Bruce, has been diligently immersing herself in our operations as she takes on her new responsibilities. Throughout this transition, Amy and I have been collaborating closely.

​She expresses her enthusiasm, stating, “I am delighted to meet and work with so many dedicated members of the PCV team, including Helpline volunteers, Wayfinders, and Board members. Every day, I witness the numerous ways we serve individuals seeking peaceful end-of-life options, and I am honored to lead these vital programs moving forward.”

Amy is eager to establish a diverse array of community and medical education initiatives this year while evolving PCV’s services to ensure that individuals pursuing aid in dying have access to the necessary information and providers. I look forward to stepping back from day-to-day operations to concentrate on specific strategic initiatives.

Sad News: PCV’s Program Manager, Audrey Winograd, is Ending Her Tenure

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that our close colleague, Audrey Winograd, has decided to resign from her role as Program Manager at Patient Choices Vermont (PCV) after more than two years of dedicated service. Due to family obligations, Audrey has made the difficult choice to step down. Her contributions to PCV have been invaluable; her unwavering dedication and hard work have allowed us to effectively respond to the significant increase in individuals seeking support.

Audrey played a pivotal role in expanding our Helpline team and was instrumental in establishing PCV’s Wayfinder Network. Under her leadership, we have harnessed the energy and commitment of numerous volunteers, creating a stronger community foundation for our mission. We are deeply grateful for the heart, spirit, and expertise that Audrey has brought to our organization, and she will be greatly missed.

As always, thank you for your interest and support.

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