The Iris Club started the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) in 1908.  At that time, home health care cost $.10.  Healthcare was provided to all Lancaster residents regardless of financial barriers -- this is still true today.  In 1909, the only employed nurse made more than 1,180 home visits.  By 1938 nurses were making 21,009 visits.

In 1911 VNA began to receive insurance reimbursement for some of the care it provided.  VNA contracted with Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. for $.25 per visit.  During 1916, VNA provided service to the Board of Health during the measles epidemic.

During the 1920's, the VNA began the May Day program, which provided health examinations to more than 500 preschool children. VNA supervised the Well Baby Clinic at Lancaster General Hospital from 1960-1969.  In 1962 the Welfare Department started to pay VNA to provide care to people with limited incomes who were over 65 years of age.

Crispus Attucks Neighborhood Center became a site for VNA to treat school -ge children on Wednesday afternoons.   The National League for Nursing accredited VNA in 1968. Shortly thereafter, in 1969, VNA hired its first licensed practical nurse (LPN). 

Today, VNA employs more than 100 staff including nurses, therapists and administrative support.  VNA provides home care for people suffering from all types of illnesses.  VNA is the largest provider of home care services in the county.  VNA provides more than 60% of the charity care needed for individuals with financial concerns.