DRDH Celebrates Its People, Culture, And Growing Future

DRDH employee in the stock rooms

2026-06-08

DEEP RIVER AND DISTRICT HEALTH CELEBRATES ITS PEOPLE, CULTURE, AND GROWING FUTURE

Deep River and District Health (DRDH) is proud to share the story of its people, culture, and commitment to the future as the organization continues to expand services and strengthen care for the communities it serves.

Over the past several years, DRDH has experienced significant growth and transformation. From the development of a new primary care building and the construction of a new 96-bed Four Seasons Lodge long-term care home, to the planned expansion of community-based services and the future development of hospice care, DRDH continues to build on its role as a modern, integrated health campus serving the Upper Ottawa Valley.

At the centre of that growth is a dedicated team of professionals, physicians, volunteers, learners, and partners who are committed to ensuring patients, residents, clients, and families feel secure, comfortable, and well cared for.

“Everything we are building for the future starts with our people,” said Janna Hotson, President and CEO of Deep River and District Health. “We have an exceptional team that brings compassion, expertise, innovation, and a deep commitment to service every day. As our organization continues to grow, we remain focused on creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to make a difference.”

As part of this celebration of the DRDH experience, the organization is releasing a new feature video, DRDH: Where Every Person Matters. Developed in partnership with team members from across the organization, the video shares the voices and experiences of those who live the DRDH mission every day and highlights the culture, values, and sense of purpose that define the organization.

The video showcases the collaborative spirit that exists across the health campus, where acute care, long-term care, primary care, and community services work together to provide seamless, people-centred care. It also highlights the opportunities available to those looking to build meaningful careers in a progressive healthcare environment while enjoying the benefits of life in the Deep River region.

Surrounded by nature and offering a strong sense of community, Deep River combines the advantages of small-town living with access to innovative healthcare services, advanced technology, and diverse professional opportunities. Team members frequently cite the supportive workplace culture, opportunities for growth, and ability to make a meaningful impact as some of the reasons they choose to build their careers at DRDH.

Over the past year, DRDH has worked alongside team members from across the organization to create a growing library of videos and stories that showcase the people behind the care. Representing both clinical and non-clinical roles, these stories celebrate the passion, expertise, and dedication that team members bring to their work every day. The release of DRDH: Where Every Person Matters marks the next chapter in this ongoing series, with additional videos and employee stories planned in the months ahead.

The initiative builds on extensive engagement with team members who shared what they value most about working at DRDH and what makes the organization unique. Their feedback helped shape a renewed focus on professional development, workplace culture, leadership, wellness, and creating opportunities for people to learn, grow, and thrive.

As DRDH prepares for the opening of its new long-term care home, the expansion of community-based services, and future hospice programming, the organization remains committed to investing in both its people and the communities it serves.

The video concludes with a simple message that reflects the collective impact of every member of the organization: “WE ARE DRDH.”

“This is an exciting time for our organization,” added Hotson. “We are growing, evolving, and expanding what we can offer our community. None of that would be possible without the incredible people who choose to work, learn, volunteer, and build their careers here. This video is a celebration of them and the important work they do every day. It is also the beginning of a broader series of stories that will continue to highlight the remarkable people, professions, and experiences that make DRDH such a special place to work and receive care.”

To watch DRDH: Where Every Person Matters and learn more about Deep River and District Health, visit DRDH: Where Every Person Matters