The Overlook/Masonic Health System of Massachusetts, Inc. (MHS), based in Charlton, and Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc. (Care Central), headquartered in Gardner, have announced a collaborative agreement under which MHS will transition the operations of Overlook Visiting Nurse Association, Inc. (OVNA) to Care Central.

This transition includes OVNA’s Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care programs. The move reflects MHS’s decision to refocus its efforts on its flagship senior living campus and campus-based health services, including a newly renovated Post-Acute Short-Term Rehabilitation Center scheduled to reopen in September 2025.

Care Central began assuming management of OVNA’s operations on August 28, 2025. Over the course of four weeks, patients and staff are being transitioned to Care Central, with an emphasis on continuity of care. Both organizations are long-standing, nonprofit providers with Medicare and Medicaid certification, strong reputations for quality, and a shared mission of improving health and well-being for individuals and families across Central and Western Massachusetts.

Tameryn Campbell, President & CEO of Masonic Health System, noted that OVNA has cared for thousands of patients over its 25-year history:

“We are heartened to find a mission-minded, nonprofit organization in Care Central. This transition ensures that those we have served will continue receiving high-quality, compassionate care and services through a trusted organization that shares our values.”

Patients previously served by OVNA retain the right to choose their home health or hospice provider. Those selecting Care Central as their new agency will receive uninterrupted care and may also see continuity with some familiar staff members who are moving to Care Central.

For Care Central, the expansion adds approximately 30 new communities, doubling its service territory to 128 towns. Holly Chaffee, President & CEO of Care Central, highlighted the opportunity this creates:

“We are proud to welcome qualified members of the Overlook team who share our commitment to compassionate, community-focused care.”

About Masonic Health System

Masonic Health System of Massachusetts, Inc. (MHS) is the parent corporation of The Overlook Life Care Community and Overlook Health & Rehabilitation Center. Together, they provide a continuum of health care and senior living services across the Commonwealth. More at www.overlook-mass.org.

About Care Central VNA & Hospice

Founded over 100 years ago, Care Central VNA & Hospice provides home health, hospice, palliative care, and wellness services to residents of Central Massachusetts. Its team of professionals helps individuals remain safe and comfortable at home while receiving personalized care. More at www.carecentralvna.org.