Message from Jeff Balser about VUMC's response to last night's storms

VUMC is fully engaged in the response to the overnight storms that caused injury and death in Nashville and communities throughout Middle Tennessee. At this time, we are aware that 22 people in Middle Tennessee have lost their lives, although thankfully at this moment no one working at VUMC is known to be injured or dead. We do know that some VUMC employees and trainees living in Wilson County have lost their homes.

A dedicated team of individuals from across our organization convened overnight in our command center to make sure we were prepared to care for people in our region in need of emergency care. So far, approximately 50 patients have received care at our hospitals, including 36 adults and children at Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital. Here at our midtown campus we are continuing to receive transfers of patients from surrounding hospitals via LifeFlight and ground transportation.

Those at VUMC who have lost homes or have friends and family members who were injured will need our support and understanding in the coming days. The Work/Life Connections-Employee Assistance Program is here to help. 

It’s always incredibly rewarding to see the caring teamwork on display in these circumstances. I want to express my appreciation to everyone who is going above and beyond to help.

Sincerely,