Advancing Health

A New Solution to Medical Debt

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Millions of Americans are burdened by medical debt — but solutions are emerging. In this conversation, Undue Medical Debt's Allison Sesso, president and CEO, and Eva Stahl, vice president of policy, engagement and research, share how the organization has helped eliminate over $27 billion in patient debt, and how hospitals are partnering with Undue Medical Debt to help relieve financial burdens for patients. Hear actionable strategies and ideas that are key to improving patient financial health.

The CMO’s Role in Better Outcomes

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

The role of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) is rapidly evolving as health care systems focus on the present and future. In this conversation, Phillip Chang, M.D., chief medical and quality officer of CommonSpirit Health, shares insights on measuring data and quality, leading clinicians through change and building a more patient-centered future.

How Rehab Hospitals Can Ease Acute Care Overload

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0400

As hospitals face rising demand, staffing shortages and overcrowded ERs, how can America's health care system keep up? In this conversation, Scott Edelman, executive director of Burke Rehabilitation, shares how post-acute care hospitals are helping relieve pressure on acute care facilities, and how these rehab centers act as a critical safety valve to improve patient flow, reduce length of stay and deliver better outcomes.

AI in Clinical Care: Reducing Risk and Improving Outcomes

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the future of health care — from predictive early warning systems that detect patient deterioration to ambient AI tools that streamline clinical documentation. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Marc Boom, M.D., president and CEO of Houston Methodist and the 2026 AHA board chair, speaks with Amy Rockman, director of the Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence, a systemwide initiative of Rutgers Health and RWJBarnabas Health. The two explore AI applications that are delivering measurable improvements in hospital mortality, safety, and clinician burnout, and how a “living lab” approach, interdisciplinary teams, and responsible AI integration are benefitting patients and the health care workforce.

A New Prescription for Community Health

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Improving community health requires more than clinical care alone. In this conversation, Venita Owens, president of Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center, and Andrea Hayes, manager of marketing and public relations for Baylor Scott & White, discuss how medical care, nutrition, education and fitness are coming together to support underserved populations in Dallas.

To learn more about the Healthier Together Conference, please visit https://healthiertogether.aha.org/

Rethinking Primary Care to Support Medically Complex Patients

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Some patients don’t need more care — they need a different kind of care. In this conversation, leaders from University of Utah Health share how an intensive primary care model is reducing hospital utilization and improving patient stability.

Encore: Fighting Hypertension Through Community Collaboration

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In this Advancing Health encore episode, Duke University's Anna Tharakan, lead project manager on Closing the Gap on Hypertension Disparities, and Bradi Granger, Ph.D., research professor at Duke University School of Nursing and director of the Duke Heart Center Nursing Research Program, discuss how Duke’s team is closing hypertension disparities by integrating community health workers, student ambassadors and local clinics.

Better Teams, Better Mental Health Care

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

As demand for mental health care rises, primary care clinics are expanding how they support patients. In this conversation, John Muir Health's Jeremy Fish, M.D., director of the Family Medicine Residency Program, and Pilar Corcoran-Lozano, PsyD, behavioral health core faculty and supervising psychologist of the Co-Training Program, discuss how training physicians and behavioral health professionals as a team is improving patient care, strengthening teamwork and expanding access to these vital mental health services.

2026 AHA Health Care Workforce Scan: AI and the Future of Staffing

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Health care leaders are facing workforce shortages, rising burnout and growing demand for care. So, what’s working — and what's next? In this conversation, Gratia Pitcher, M.D., chief medical officer and patient experience dyad leader with Essentia Health, and Larissa Africa, vice president of health care workforce solutions with Staff Garden by Ascend Learning, discuss findings from the 2026 AHA Health Care Workforce Scan and how hospitals are redesigning care teams, using AI to reduce administrative burden, and building career pathways for the next generation of clinicians.

Hospitals Beyond the Walls: Advancing Community Health

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Hospitals impact far more than what happens inside their walls. In this conversation, Doug Brown, partner with Manatt Health and current chair of the American Hospital Association's Foster G. McGaw Prize Committee, discusses how hospitals are tackling food insecurity, workforce development, safe neighborhoods, and other social drivers of health through authentic community partnerships. Discover what it takes for hospitals to truly serve as cornerstones of their communities, and how the Foster G. McGaw Prize highlights these innovative programs that are making a difference.

To learn more about the Foster G. McGaw Prize and apply for the 2027 award, visit aha.org/fostermcgaw.

From Closure to Comeback: A Rural ICU Is Reborn

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:12:00 -0400

In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Marc Boom, M.D., president and CEO of Houston Methodist and the 2026 AHA board chair, sits down with Mark Boucot, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Potomac Valley Hospital, to explore how rural hospitals can leverage technology and partnerships to deliver care close to home. From reopening a shuttered ICU to launching a low-cost virtual ICU partnership, Boucot shares how the 25-bed critical access hospital went from near-empty beds to full occupancy — all while keeping patients local and strengthening its community.

Rebuilding Georgia’s Rural Pediatric Pipeline: Part Two

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

What does it take to ensure every child — no matter his/her ZIP code — has access to pediatric care? In part two of this conversation, leaders from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Mercer University School of Medicine reveal how targeted pediatric scholarships and deep community partnerships are building a sustainable pipeline of pediatricians committed to serving rural communities.

Miss Part One? Listen at https://www.aha.org/advancing-health-podcast/2026-02-23-rebuilding-georgias-rural-pediatric-pipeline-part-one

Rebuilding Georgia’s Rural Pediatric Pipeline: Part One

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Across rural Georgia, more than 60 counties lack a single pediatrician. In this conversation, Jean Sumner, M.D., Dean of Mercer University School of Medicine, and Marc Welsh, vice president of child advocacy at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, share how an innovative public-private partnership is transforming access to pediatric care and building pipelines of rural-ready physicians.

Listen to Part Two of this conversation at https://www.aha.org/advancing-health-podcast/2026-02-25-rebuilding-georgias-rural-pediatric-pipeline-part-two

Encore: Revolutionizing Rural Cardiac Care

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In this Advancing Health encore episode, Josh Neff, CEO of CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital, discusses a new cutting-edge communication platform that sends patient EKGs directly from the ambulance to the cardiologist in real time. Josh explains how this simple, affordable tool is cutting treatment times and saving lives in one of the nation’s most challenging regions for emergency cardiac care.

Mental Health First Aid: A Proactive Approach to Workplace Violence

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Preventing workplace violence in health care takes more than security. In this conversation, Thomas Ahr, senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Hospital Sisters Health System, details how the health system is prioritizing prevention, supporting staff after incidents, and turning safety into a leadership responsibility.

Operation Winter Shield: The FBI's Campaign Against Cyberthreats Part 2

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In part two of this conversation, John Riggi, the AHA’s national advisor for cybersecurity and risk, talks with the FBI's Brett Leatherman, assistant director, Cyber Division, and Gretchen Burrier, assistant director, Office of Private Sector, about how nation-state actors are leveraging cybercriminals and AI to disrupt health care. They also discuss how hospitals and health systems of any size can build trusted, local relationships with the FBI before a cyber crisis hits.

Operation Winter Shield: The FBI's Campaign Against Cyberthreats Part 1

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In part one of this two-part conversation, John Riggi, the AHA's national advisor for cybersecurity and risk, talks with the FBI's Brett Leatherman, assistant director, Cyber Division, and Gretchen Burrier, assistant director, Office of Private Sector, about the FBI's new campaign against cyberthreats, the surge of cyberattacks in U.S. health care, and what hospitals and health systems can do right now to defend themselves.

Inside a Quest for Quality: How Safer Care Is Built at Scale

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Behind every safety metric is a leadership decision. In this conversation, Thomas McGinn, M.D., MPH, senior executive vice president and chief physician executive officer at CommonSpirit Health, shares how the organization aligns leadership, standardizes processes, and uses analytics to reduce variation and improve patient outcomes — work that made CommonSpirit Health a 2025 finalist for the AHA Quest for Quality Prize.

For more information on the AHA's Quest for Quality Prize, please visit https://www.aha.org/about/awards/quest-for-quality

The Power of Lived Experience as a Behavioral Health Care Strategy

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Is lived experience one of the most underused tools in health care today? In this conversation, JPS Health Network's Zelia Baugh, senior vice president of behavioral health, and Melanie Cooper, peer support specialist, discuss how utilizing peer support specialists can help patients navigate recovery, improve care transitions, and drive better outcomes across inpatient units, outpatient clinics and psychiatric emergency services.

When Health Care Is Hard to Navigate: Designing Patient Care Navigation

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Even the most experienced health care leaders can feel lost as patients. In this conversation, Ji Im, system senior director of community and population health at CommonSpirit Health, explores why seamless navigation, community partnerships and human connection are essential to reducing friction and improving the health care experience. Ji also shares how her personal health story has reshaped her understanding of care navigation and patient-centered design.

Rethinking Health Care Innovation From the Inside Out

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

In the first Leadership Dialogue conversation of 2026, Marc Boom, M.D., president and CEO of Houston Methodist and the 2026 AHA board chair, speaks with James Merlino, M.D., chief operating officer at Joint Commission, about building a culture of innovation, unleashing the power of new technologies to advance health care, and developing partnerships to access and share expertise, information and best practices.

Cybersecurity on the Health Care Front Lines Against AI and Ransomware

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence is transforming health care — but it’s also giving cybercriminals potential new tools for disruption. In this conversation, John Riggi, AHA’s national advisor for cybersecurity and risk, speaks with Larry Pierce, director of cybersecurity and information security officer for Atlantic Health, about how the growth of AI is reshaping cyber risk in health care, and why physical security is now inseparable from cybersecurity for America's hospitals and health systems.

"Walk Alongside Them": Beacon Health's Efforts to Reduce Maternal and Infant Mortality

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Beacon Health System is taking a community-driven approach to improve health for moms and babies. In this conversation, Beacon Health System's Kimberly Green Reeves, vice president of community impact and partnerships, and Cassy White, director of community impact, share how data, care coordination and community involvement are helping reduce infant mortality in Michigan and Indiana. From home visits and remote patient monitoring, to mental health support and community partnerships, learn what it truly means to walk alongside moms and babies from pregnancy through postpartum.

This podcast has been edited for time. To view the extended video podcast, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVfWSWBALZs

From Data to Impact: A Community Blueprint for Mental Health Access

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Mental health is a top community health need nationwide. In this conversation, John Muir Health's Jesse Tamplen, vice president of care coordination, and Jamie Elmasu, director of community health improvement, explain how community health needs assessments (CHNAs), data-driven planning and nonprofit partnerships are expanding access to patients who need it most. Learn how this health system's community blueprint is leading to better ecosystems of care in Northern California.

Simulation on Wheels: How Mobile Training Is Saving Lives in Rural Iowa

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

When health care emergencies strike in rural America, preparation can make all the difference. In this conversation, Tina Eden, R.N., CEO of Virginia Gay Hospital, and Jacinda Bunch, Ph.D., R.N., assistant professor at the Iowa College of Nursing and senior advisor to Simulation in Motion-Iowa (SIM-IA), dive into how this mobile clinical education program (SIM-IA) is delivering high-impact simulation training directly to rural hospitals and EMS teams. From pediatric trauma to obstetric emergencies and rare airway procedures, learn why SIM-IA isn’t just about training — it’s a critical patient safety strategy.

Zero Harm Isn’t a Dream: Inside Hartford HealthCare's Patient Safety Revolution

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

What does it take to transform an entire health system into a national leader in patient safety? Hartford HealthCare didn’t just ask the question — they answered it. In this conversation, Stephanie Calcasola, R.N., chief quality officer and vice president of quality and safety at Hartford HealthCare, unpacks the programs, technology and cultural shifts that drove measurable and nationally-recognized results.

To learn about the AHA's Quest for Quality Award and updates about future application periods, please visit https://www.aha.org/about/awards/quest-for-quality

Virtual Nursing in Action: Technology That Gives Nurses More Time

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Virtual nursing is changing how hospitals deliver care — but what does it actually look like in practice? In this conversation, Wendy Kim, DNP, R.N., vice president and chief nursing officer of the central market at Henry Ford Health, shares how the system's virtual nursing program is reducing documentation burden, improving patient safety and giving nurses more time at the bedside. Learn how this nurse-driven approach to innovation is reshaping inpatient care through virtual nursing and AI-enabled tools.

Encore: Bridging Distances with AI and Telemedicine and Destigmatizing Mental Health for Health Care Workers

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Thank you for listening to Advancing Health! As we close out 2025, we’re excited to share highlights from two impactful episodes that sparked dialogue around improving health care in America. Advancing Health will return in 2026 with fresh insights and thought-provoking discussions. Until then, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a healthy, happy New Year!

Shaping Health Care for 2026: Insights From the AHA’s Incoming Board Chair

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this special Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and outgoing AHA board chair, sits down with Marc Boom, M.D., president and CEO of Houston Methodist and incoming 2026 AHA board chair. Together, they reflect on the year’s greatest challenges and achievements — from advances in digital innovation and workforce engagement, to the evolving role of hospitals in their communities. Dr. Boom shares his leadership philosophies, priorities for the year ahead, and his vision for tackling affordability, accelerating innovation, and strengthening collaboration across the health care field.

This podcast has been edited for time. To view the full video conversation, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUsHkHRPcQY

Pharmacy Deserts, Rising Demand, and the Future of Pharmacy Access

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

As pharmacy closures accelerate nationwide, M Health Fairview is proving what’s possible when a health system steps up. In this conversation, John Pastor, president of Fairview Pharmacy Services and chief operating officer of Fairview Pharmacy Solutions, shares how the system's expansive pharmacy network, centralized services hub and integrated technology are reshaping medication access Minnesota and beyond.

You Can’t Buy Trust: Social Capital and the Physician Leader

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The future of physician leadership hinges on a skill money can’t buy — social capital. In this conversation, Thomas Lee, M.D., chief medical officer of Press Ganey and editor-in-chief of NEJM Catalyst, explores why social capital is becoming the most critical asset in leadership development, how it can drive organizational performance, and why physicians must act intentionally to enable high-reliability teams.

To learn more about the recent framework for physician leaders, please visit https://catalyst.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/CAT.25.0005

When the Hospital CEO Becomes the Patient: Rural Maternal Care Up Close

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Few leaders understand rural maternal care as deeply as a CEO who delivered her own baby in the hospital she leads. In this conversation, Eilidh Pederson, CEO at Western Wisconsin Health, shares lessons from her unique birth experience, and outlines how rural hospitals can continue to provide needed access to safe, high-quality maternity health services in rural America.

The Future of 340B: What Hospitals and Rural Communities Need to Know

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Major shifts to the 340B drug pricing program could be on the horizon, along with new regulations, legal battles and congressional scrutiny. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, joins Aimee Kuhlman, vice president of advocacy grassroots and government relations at the AHA, and Paulette Davidson, president and CEO of Monument Health, to unpack what’s at stake. They explore potential regulatory changes for 340B, the lifeline it provides for rural hospitals, and how upcoming changes could alter the financial landscape for the hospitals that anchor their rural communities.

A Lifeline for Rural Communities: Sutter Health’s Bold Behavioral Health Access Expansion

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Behavioral health shortages hit rural communities especially hard. In recognition of National Rural Health Day on November 20, Sutter Health's Dan Peterson, CEO of Behavioral Health Services, and Matthew White, M.D., chair of the Behavioral Health Service Line, share how the system is expanding behavioral health access across rural Northern California. They also discuss how new crisis stabilization units, rural clinic investments and virtual psychiatry models are supporting patients and clinicians in high-need areas.

From Toxic Paint to Safe Futures: Cleveland Clinic’s Bold Plan to End Lead Exposure

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Despite decades of progress, lead exposure remains a serious threat to children's health in Cleveland. In this conversation, Vickie Johnson, executive vice president and chief community officer at Cleveland Clinic, and Roopa Thakur, M.D., pediatrician and associate program director of the Pediatric Residency Program at Cleveland Clinic Children's, share how community collaboration, education and home remediation are driving Cleveland’s ambitious plan to ensure that every home and childcare center is lead-safe.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Before It Starts: Inside Children’s Wisconsin’s Diabetes Prevention Clinic

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Children’s Wisconsin is transforming the prevention of Type 2 diabetes in kids. In this conversation, Elizabeth Dabrowski, M.D., pediatric endocrinologist at Children's Wisconsin, and Matthew Edwards, R.D., diabetes care and education specialist at Children's Wisconsin Diabetes Prevention Clinic, share how a collaborative approach — including with endocrinologists, dietitians and physical therapists — empowers families to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Discover why focusing on prevention over treatment may be the most powerful medicine of all in the fight against Type 2 diabetes.

From Dollars to Difference: How CommonSpirit Health's Donor Support Drives Community Health

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

How does a national health system turn donor dollars into measurable impact? In the final episode of a four-part series with the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), CommonSpirit Health's Daniel Morissette, senior executive vice president and chief financial officer, and Nancy Bussani, executive vice president and chief philanthropy officer, explore the powerful connection between financial health and philanthropy — and how aligning donors, leaders and caregivers can create lasting change in communities that need it most.

Communities That Care: The Power of Giving with Sanford Health

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 07:00:00 -0400

At Sanford Health, philanthropy isn’t just about raising funds — it’s about uniting communities behind a shared mission to care, comfort and cure. In this conversation, Sanford Health's Bill Gassen, president and CEO, and Deb Koski, chief philanthropy officer, discuss how a strong culture of giving is extending world-class care across rural communities in the Midwest and beyond.

Rebuilding the Pipeline: The Nurse Retention Turnaround at NYC Health + Hospitals

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In 2019, nurse turnover at NYC Health + Hospitals reached a staggering 46%. Fast forward six years, and that number has dropped to just 7%. In this conversation, Natalia Cineas, DNP, R.N., senior vice president and chief nursing executive at NYC Health + Hospitals, reveals how the organization achieved this extraordinary turnaround — from launching nurse residency and mentorship programs, to creating a culture of empowerment where nurses feel heard, supported and inspired.

To learn more about NYC Health + Hospitals nurse residency program, please visit https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/nursing/professional-practice/residency-program/

How Simulation is Transforming Patient Safety and Emergency Readiness

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Practice makes perfect — especially in health care. In this conversation, we explore how Advocate Health and Laerdal Medical are transforming patient safety through the power of simulation. Guests Kelley Sava, associate vice president of simulation at Advocate Health, and Brian Bjoern, M.D., patient safety manager at Laerdal Medical, share how simulation-based training helps identify safety gaps, improve teamwork and communication, and prepare clinicians for life-saving scenarios before they reach the bedside.

To learn more information about Laerdal Medical, please visit www.laerdal.com/us

Generational Health: A Blueprint for Systemwide Care Transformation for Older Adults

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

As America’s population ages, hospitals and health systems are reimagining how to deliver care that honors dignity, independence, and what matters most to patients. In this conversation, Jon Zifferblatt, M.D., executive vice president and chief strategy officer at West Health, and Diane Wintz, M.D., critical care specialist and medical director of the Trauma Program at Sharp Memorial Hospital, discuss the creation of the Generational Health program — a collaborative partnership for older adult care that integrates geriatric emergency departments, surgical pathways and community programs. Learn how this partnership is transforming outcomes and offering a national blueprint for older adult care.

To learn more about West Health, visit: https://westhealth.org/

To learn more about Sharp Memorial’s Generational Health Program, visit: https://www.sharp.com/services/generational-health

Inside Washington: The Government Shutdown and Pending 2025 Legislative Outlook

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

As the federal government shutdown stretches on, health care leaders are navigating uncertainty on multiple fronts. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and the 2025 AHA Board Chair, talks with Stacey Hughes, executive vice president of government relations and public policy at the AHA, about the outlook for ending the government shutdown that began October 1, as well as what to expect on the legislative front for the remainder of 2025.

This podcast was recorded October 10, 2025.

Hospital Fundraising That Heals: How Philanthropy Powers Care at Inova

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What happens when philanthropy becomes part of a health system's DNA? In this conversation, Inova Health System's Toni Ardabell, chief of clincal enterprise operations, and Sage Bolte, Ph.D., chief philanthropy officer and president of the Inova Health Foundation, share how aligning philanthropy with mission and clinical priorities allows Inova to accelerate innovation, expand high-acuity services, and invest in the programs that change lives.

On the Road to Early Detection: Woman's Hospital's Mobile Mammography

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a reminder that early detection saves lives. In this conversation, Lindsey Fauveau, M.D., medical director of breast surgical oncology at Woman’s Hospital, shares how the hospital’s state-of-the-art mobile unit brings 3D mammograms directly to communities across Louisiana. She also explains why early detection matters, and how education and outreach are transforming breast cancer care for women everywhere.

The Ransomware Ripple: The Texas Model for Cyber Resilience in Health Care

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 -0400

A ransomware attack on a single hospital can have a ripple effect across an entire region, threatening patient care and clinical operations. In this conversation, Fernando Martinez, Ph.D., chief digital officer at the Texas Hospital Association, shares how Texas and the THA are building regional resilience through cyber command structures, statewide coordination and tabletop exercises. Learn how this approach is shaping a national model for health care cybersecurity.

From Innovation to Impact: AI and the Future of Health Care

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:54:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence and other technological innovations are transforming the future of health care. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, is joined by Jackie Gerhart, M.D., chief medical officer of Epic and a practicing family medicine physician. The two discuss how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping health care to become better, safer and more accessible for patients and care teams. Plus, learn how a collaboration between the AHA and Epic to share point-of-care tools is improving maternal health care and saving lives.

Philanthropy as Strategy: Elevating Hospitals Through Community Support

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Philanthropy is more than a funding source — it’s a lifeline of hope, vision and transformation for hospitals and the communities they serve. In this first episode of a four-part series with the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), Alice Ayres, president and CEO of the AHP, discusses how philanthropy is no longer just an add-on, but a strategic driver for hospitals and health systems. Alice also shares how integrating philanthropy into the C-suite unlocks new funding pathways, strengthens community trust, and fuels innovation in patient care and workforce support.

"Being OK with Not Being OK": Destigmatizing Mental Health for Health Care Workers

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Health care workers face immense stress, yet stigma and other barriers often prevent them from seeking the mental health support they need. In this conversation, Corey Feist, CEO and co-founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation, and Tiffany Lyttle, R.N., director of cultural integration at Centra Health, explore how hospitals, health systems and states are expanding employee access to mental health care. They also discuss the importance of building workplace cultures where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength, and highlight innovative well-being programs that are improving the lives of the people who care for us.

For more information on this vital work, please visit:

https://drlornabreen.org/

https://drlornabreen.org/allinformentalhealth/about-us/

https://www.aha.org/suicideprevention/health-care-workforce/suicide-prevention-guide

HCA’s AI-Driven Patient Safety Evolution, Part 2

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In part two of this conversation on patient safety and AI, Randy Fagin, M.D., chief quality officer at HCA Healthcare, shares how one of the nation’s largest health systems is putting AI into practice by building responsible governance, reducing clinical and operational variance, and enhancing the work of front-line caregivers. Plus, hear key takeaways and lessons learned in effectively deploying AI across a complex health care enterprise.

HCA’s AI-Driven Patient Safety Evolution, Part 1

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence is becoming a vital tool in advancing patient safety. In the first of a two-part conversation, Randy Fagin, M.D., chief quality officer at HCA Healthcare, shares insights into the organization's bold approach to improving safety outcomes. From piloting tools like AI-assisted fetal heart rate monitoring to adapting strategies used in chemical manufacturing and the military, HCA Healthcare is reshaping safety for both patients and health care workers.

Encore: Postpartum Mental Health and Breaking Stigma with Women & Infants Hospital

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this Advancing Health encore episode, Women & Infants Hospital's Shannon Sullivan, president and chief operating officer, and Caron Zlotnick, Ph.D., director of behavioral medicine research, discuss the stigma surrounding maternal mental health, the challenges new mothers face, and the innovative programs that are having success in maternal well-being and postpartum depression prevention.

Under Threat: Stopping Violence Against Health Care Workers

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Health care professionals dedicate their lives to healing others, yet are among the most at risk for workplace violence. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, sits down with Claire Zangerle, DNP, R.N., CEO of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) and senior vice president and chief nurse executive of the American Hospital Association, to discuss the now necessary security measures for hospitals and health systems, workplace violence prevention strategies, and the urgent need to advocate for health care worker protections.

Time is Tissue: How CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital is Revolutionizing Rural Cardiac Care

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In the rural areas of the Four Corners region of the Southwestern United States, every minute counts when a heart attack strikes. In this conversation, Josh Neff, CEO of CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital, discusses a new cutting-edge communication platform that sends patient EKGs directly from the ambulance to the cardiologist in real time. Josh explains how this simple, affordable tool is cutting treatment times and saving lives in one of the nation’s most challenging regions for emergency cardiac care.

Workforce Culture is the Key to Patient Outcomes

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What if the key to transforming patient experience starts with your workforce? In this conversation, Nell Buhlman, chief administrative officer and head of strategy at Press Ganey, and Chris DeRienzo, M.D., chief physician executive at the American Hospital Association, explore the data-backed connection between employee engagement and patient outcomes. With real examples — from transformation teams to leadership engagement — Nell and Chris highlight how intentional culture building translates to measurable gains in safety, trust and patient satisfaction.

What Matters Most: Inside Froedtert’s Mission to Transform Geriatric Care

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What does it take to become a truly age-friendly hospital? In this conversation, Shelley Hart, R.N., clinical nurse specialist at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital, explores the hospital's inspiring journey toward delivering exceptional care for older adults. Through innovative delirium prevention programs, goals of care conversations, and simple acts of human connection, Shelley shares how the team is creating a hospital experience centered on dignity and purpose.

For more information on the AHA's Age-Friendly Health Systems work, please visit https://www.aha.org/center/age-friendly-health-systems

Mobilizing the 4Ms: How El Camino Health is Transforming Age-Friendly Care

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The “4M’s” framework that supports age-friendly health care for older patients continues to expand in hospitals and health systems across the nation. In this conversation, Carolyn Bogard, DNP, R.N., director of care coordination and palliative care at El Camino Health, talks about her system’s use of data to harness the passion care providers feel for improving outcomes and streamlining care delivery for older adults.

For the full video podcast, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0BwpAjkQek

Behind the Bill: What the One Big Beautiful Bill Act Means for Hospitals and Health Systems

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act will present many policy changes and challenges for America's hospitals and health systems. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with Rick Pollack, president and CEO of the American Hospital Association, about the sweeping impacts this legislation will have in the health care field. They break down the $900 billion in Medicaid and ACA marketplace cuts, the real-world effects on communities, and the behind-the-scenes advocacy that helped blunt even deeper damage.

This podcast was recorded on July 11, 2025

When Cyberattacks Strike: Is Your Board Ready?

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Cyberattacks on hospitals are urgent threats to patient safety, care delivery and public trust. In this conversation, Ajay Gupta, board chair of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic and CEO of HSR.health, speaks about the vital role hospital boards play in preparing for and responding to cyber incidents. What strategic questions should boards be asking, and how can cyber preparedness make or break a hospital’s ability to deliver care when it matters most?

When Medicaid Disappears: How Cuts Could Devastate Behavioral Health Care in Rural America

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Potential Medicaid cuts could have devastating impacts on rural communities, particularly for behavioral health care access. In this conversation, Jon Ulven, Ph.D., behavioral health psychologist and chair of adult psychology at Sanford Health, details the fragile behavioral health landscape in rural America and how Medicaid cuts could deepen gaps in health care access and resources. Dr. Ulven also shares powerful patient stories and a compelling call to action — reminding us what’s truly at stake when access to care disappears.

How Legal Advocacy Is Shaping the Future of Health Care

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Legal advocacy isn’t just a tactic — it’s a vital force protecting the future of health care. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with Chad Golder, general counsel for the American Hospital Association, about the complex legal landscape hospitals and health systems must navigate to ensure continued care for their communities. From high-profile court cases and threats to funding, to the evolving 340B Drug Pricing Program, the stakes have never been higher for health care.

Healing the Healers: BMC’s Bold Move to Support Resident Mental Health

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Medical training is intense, and the toll it takes on emotional well-being is often overlooked. In this conversation, Boston Medical Center’s (BMC) Jeff Schneider, M.D., the associate chief medical officer, designated institutional official, and chair of the Graduate Medical Education Committee at Boston Medical Center, and Simone Martell, director of the employee resilience program, discuss how BMC is flipping the script on resident wellness. By providing early access to behavioral health resources and destigmatizing mental health, future generations of medical caregivers at BMC are prioritizing their well-being so they can continue caring for communities in need.

20% Drop in Sepsis Mortality: Inside Ochsner Health’s Life-Saving Strategy

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Sepsis is one of the deadliest threats hospitals and health systems face when caring for patients. In this conversation, Ochsner Health's Stephen Saenz, sepsis program manager, and Teresa Arrington, director of robust process improvement for quality & patient safety, reveal how a mix of smart technology, clinician-led design and flexible implementation reduced sepsis-related mortality by 20% across its health system — saving lives and setting the pace for hospitals across the country.

Food as Medicine: How Cleveland Clinic Is Nourishing Community Health

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

What if access to fresh food could transform entire neighborhoods? In this conversation, Vickie Johnson, executive vice president and chief community officer at Cleveland Clinic, discusses how the medical center is confronting food insecurity by treating food as a vital part of health care. Combining data, community trust and local partnerships, Cleveland Clinic is nourishing long-term well-being — one neighborhood at a time.

Preparing Fathers for Parenthood: A Prenatal Program Supports Dads, Moms and Babies

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Father-inclusive prenatal care is reshaping maternal and infant health outcomes. In this conversation, Wrenetha Julion, Ph.D., R.N. of Rush University Medical Center, and Paul Florsheim, Ph.D. of University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, discuss the collaborative Preparing for Parenthood program, success stories on how to engage fathers early in the pregnancy journey, and what supporting dads means for stronger and healthier families.

An Ecosystem Approach to Health Across Michigan Communities

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

To celebrate Community Health Improvement (CHI) Week, June 9 – June 13, two experts from Corewell Health share how an impactful health care ecosystem model is supporting local Michigan communities, and why creating region-specific programs, from school-based clinics to school nursing initiatives, has been effective for improving community health.

Visit https://www.aha.org/center/community-health-improvement-week to learn more about the work hospitals and health systems are doing for their communities.

Beyond the Bedside: HonorHealth’s Commitment to Healthier Communities

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

To kick off 2025 Community Health Improvement (CHI) Week, June 9 – June 13, three experts from HonorHealth discuss how the health care network is addressing community needs beyond traditional care. From addressing social determinants of health like food insecurity to launching innovative programs such as the Adult Day Health Care Center, HonorHealth is taking bold steps to strengthen the fabric of its community.

Visit https://www.aha.org/center/community-health-improvement-week to learn more about the work hospitals and health systems are doing for their communities.

SSM Health’s United Front Against Workplace Violence

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

June 6 is the ninth annual Hospitals Against Violence (#HAVhope) Friday, a national day of awareness to highlight how America’s hospitals and health systems combat violence in their workplaces and communities. In this conversation, SSM Heath's Amy Wilson, DNP, R.N., chief nurse executive, and Todd Miller, vice president of security, discuss how collaboration between clinical and security teams for workplace violence simulations and de-escalation scenarios is reshaping the culture of safety across their system.

Visit https://www.aha.org/hospitals-against-violence to learn more about the important work that hospitals and health systems are doing to prevent workplace violence.

Duke University Is Fighting Hypertension Through Community Collaboration

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0400

June 9 – June 13, 2025 is Community Health Improvement (CHI) Week — a week that looks at the important work hospitals and health systems are doing to support the overall health of their patients and communities. In this conversation, Duke University's Anna Tharakan, lead project manager on Closing the Gap on Hypertension Disparities, and Bradi Granger, Ph.D., research professor at Duke University School of Nursing and director of the Duke Heart Center Nursing Research Program, discuss how Duke’s team is closing hypertension disparities by integrating community health workers, student ambassadors and local clinics.

Bringing Virtual Behavioral Health Care Access to Rural Youth in West Virginia

Fri, 30 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Access to youth and adolescent behavioral health care is a major challenge facing rural communities. In this conversation, Adrienne Coopey, D.O., a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the West Virginia University Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, discusses how a fully virtual collaborative care model is helping deliver early behavioral health interventions and improve access and outcomes for children across West Virginia.

Tariffs, Trade and the Health Care Supply Chain: What Leaders Need to Know

Tue, 27 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The uncertainty of tariffs could lead to challenging situations in America's health care landscape. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with Brian Pomper, partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, and Akin Demehin, vice president of quality and safety policy at the AHA, about the past and present state of U.S. tariff policy, how tariffs could impact hospital and health system operations, and ways health care leaders can engage as policy advocates.

This podcast was recorded on May 15, 2025.

The Evolving Roles of Chaplains in Health Care Well-Being

Wed, 21 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The role of chaplains continues to evolve in health care organizations, with chaplains being integrated into large-scale well-being initiatives. In this conversation, Jason Lesandrini, Ph.D., assistant vice president of Ethics, Advanced Care Planning, Spiritual Health and Language Access Services at Wellstar Health System, and Kelsey White, Ph.D., assistant professor and chaplaincy faculty researcher at the Department of Patient Counseling at Virginia Commonwealth University, discuss real-world examples of how chaplains reduce clinician and patient stress and address emotional and well-being needs in some of the most challenging moments in health care.

Improving Behavioral Health for Older Adults: Lessons from Henry Ford Health

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Mental health and substance use disorders in older adults are frequently underdiagnosed and underserved. In this conversation, Zaira Khalid, M.D., senior staff geriatric psychiatrist at Henry Ford Behavioral Health Hospital, discusses the unique physical, emotional, and social needs of patients over 65, the hospital's compassionate and multi-disciplinary approach to whole-person care, and how to recognize the silent struggles of older loved ones and provide support.

Postpartum Mental Health: Breaking Stigma with Women & Infants Hospital

Wed, 07 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

May 7 is World Maternal Mental Health Day. In this conversation, Women & Infants Hospital's Shannon Sullivan, president and chief operating officer, and Caron Zlotnick, Ph.D., director of behavioral medicine research, discuss the stigma surrounding maternal mental health, the challenges new mothers face, and the innovative programs that are having success in maternal well-being and postpartum depression prevention.

AI in Stroke Treatment: Expert Insights from Henry Ford Health

Mon, 05 May 2025 07:00:00 -0400

May is American Stroke Month. In this conversation, Aaron Lewandowski, M.D., emergency medicine physician and the emergency medicine stroke representative at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, and Alex Chebl, M.D., interventional neurologist and director of the Henry Ford Stroke Center and the Division of Vascular Neurology at Henry Ford Health, discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing stroke care. From accelerating diagnoses and streamlining team communication, to significantly improving patient outcomes, this rapid advancement in AI technology isn’t just supporting doctors — it’s saving lives.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Cybersecurity and the Fight to Safeguard Health Care

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 10:45:00 -0400

From ransomware attacks to data breaches, the stakes for hospitals and health systems to protect their patients have never been higher. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the American Hospital Association, about how health care leaders are planning to mitigate cyberattacks, the need to build resilience to these threat-to-life crimes, and why forging partnerships with the government and the private sector is crucial for defense.

This podcast has been modified for time. To view the entire Leadership Dialogue, please visit https://youtu.be/fHgCZJFQa60

Quality 101: How University of Utah Health Strengthens Board Culture for Better Patient Outcomes

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Developing a strong board culture of quality and safety is a heavy but necessary lift for any health system. In this conversation, University of Utah Health's Kencee Graves, M.D., hospitalist and palliative medicine physician, and David Colling, vice chair, Community Board of Directors, discuss how a “Quality 101” approach helped bridge knowledge gaps between clinicians and board members, and why making this transformation interactive leads to stronger strategic alignment and better patient outcomes.

Ambient AI Technology at Cleveland Clinic: Reducing Physician Burnout and Enhancing Patient Care

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

AI voice-enabled solutions are reducing physician burnout, enhancing patient interactions and transforming workflows across health care. In this conversation, Cleveland Clinic's Eric Boose, M.D., family medicine physician and associate chief medical information officer, and Rohit Chandra, Ph.D., executive vice president and chief digital officer, discuss the Clinic's initial pilot of ambient listening technology, lessons learned from implementation and what's on the horizon for AI in health care.

A Stronger Workforce: Strategies from the 2025 AHA Health Care Workforce Scan

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The American Hospital Association’s 2025 Health Care Workforce Scan offers important insights into the current state of the health care workforce and outlines potential approaches to address both present and future staffing challenges. In this conversation, Claire Zangerle, DNP, R.N., chief executive officer of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), and senior vice president and chief nurse executive of the American Hospital Association, and Joel Moore, DNP, R.N., chief nursing officer of MercyOne Genesis, and chair of the AONL Workforce Committee, discuss the strategies the Workforce Scan has identified, including how organizations can rethink culture, improve workforce pipelines, and leverage partnerships to rebuild a stronger health care workforce.

To learn more about The American Hospital Association’s 2025 Health Care Workforce Scan, please visit www.aha.org/aha-workforce-scan

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Importance of Advocacy and Storytelling in Rural Health

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with Lori Wightman, R.N., CEO of Bothwell Regional Health Center, about the challenges that rural hospitals and health systems face, including razor-thin operating margins and workforce staffing, before pivoting to discuss the importance of advocacy in telling the hospital story.

A Great Catch: Strategies for Building a Culture of Safety Reporting

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Mindy Estes, M.D., former CEO of Saint Luke’s Health System and former AHA board chair, and Nancy Howell Agee, CEO emeritus of Carilion Clinic and former AHA board chair, discuss the importance of bringing a culture of safety reporting to an organization, and how technology can’t replace the human factor in a successful patient safety strategy.

Architecting Care: A Cancer Journey Intersects with a Breast Center’s Design

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

How do you design a health care space that truly prioritizes patient experience? In this conversation, Sara Robinson, senior associate healthcare architect at McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture, and Jamie Feinour, vice president of operations at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center and president of Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital, discuss how patient-centered design and innovative architecture come together to create spaces of healing for patients and providers, and how Sara's personal cancer journey impacted the design for Novant Health's Breast Center.

Critical Condition: Cybersecurity in Rural Hospitals with Microsoft Part 2

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

A cyberattack on a rural hospital or health system can have devastating impacts, leaving in its wake patient harm and financial distress. In part two of this conversation, John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the American Hospital Association, and Justin Spelhaug, corporate vice president and global head of Tech for Social Impact at Microsoft Philanthropies, discuss the urgent need for stronger defenses, the role of technology leaders to combat these attacks, and Microsoft’s strategies for long-term resilience.

Critical Condition: Cybersecurity in Rural Hospitals with Microsoft Part 1

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Rural hospitals are facing escalating cyberthreats, with ransomware attacks putting patient lives and entire communities at risk. In part one of this conversation, John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the American Hospital Association, and Justin Spelhaug, corporate vice president and global head of Tech for Social Impact at Microsoft Philanthropies, discuss the unique vulnerabilities rural hospitals face, the latest cyberthreats, and actionable strategies to strengthen defenses.

WellSpan Health: A Commitment to Quality and Community

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

WellSpan Health's commitment to health care innovation and quality earned it the American Hospital Association’s Quest for Quality Prize in 2024. In this conversation, Mindy Estes, M.D., former CEO of Saint Luke's Health System and former AHA board chair, and Roxanna Gapstur, Ph.D., R.N., CEO of WellSpan Health, discuss the strategies that enabled WellSpan to maintain high-quality care during and after the pandemic, solutions for nursing retention, and how WellSpan is addressing critical community health challenges.

Bridging Distances with AI and Telemedicine

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Sanford Health, America’s largest rural health system, is revolutionizing care delivery with telemedicine and AI. In this conversation, Dave Newman, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer for virtual care at Sanford Health, discusses how innovative virtual care models and AI-powered solutions are breaking down barriers, improving patient outcomes and enhancing provider efficiency.

Data and Curiosity: Strategies to Strengthen Patient Safety

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Accurate data, analytics and impassioned and inquisitive leaders are all important drivers of a strong patient safety mission for any health care organization. In this conversation, Mindy Estes, M.D., former CEO of Saint Luke's Health System and former AHA board chair, and Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health and AHA board member, discuss how hospital leaders and boards can drive meaningful change, the impact of data-driven decision making, and the importance of mentoring future health care leaders.

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Critical Role of Trust in Health Care

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Trust is a critical component of any healthy society. In health care, any potential erosion of trust can have negative impacts on the field as a whole. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with two health care leaders, Lynn Hanessian, former chief health strategist at Edelman, and Robert Trestman, M.D., Ph.D., chair of psychiatry and behavioral medicine at Carilion Clinic, about why trust is eroding in society, how that impacts patient care, and what leaders can do to restore and strengthen it.

A Tiered System of Safety: Committing to Zero Harm with WellSpan Health

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Patient safety is a core principle of every health care organization, and hospitals and health systems are always striving for new ways to boost their patient safety missions. In this conversation, Carlos Roberts, M.D., urogynecologist and vice president and chief medical officer of the Women and Children Service Line at WellSpan Health, discusses the organization's commitment to zero harm, its innovative tier structure for daily safety huddles, and its fostered culture of continuous improvement and celebration of patient safety.

Caring for Our Kids: Raising St. Louis is Helping Families Thrive

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

St. Louis Children’s Hospital is helping new moms, families and communities thrive through its Raising St. Louis program. In this "Caring for Our Kids" episode, Traci Carter, program manager of Raising St. Louis, and Nicole Kozma, director of school and community outreach programs at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and BJC Community Health Improvement, discuss the scope of the Raising St. Louis program — from home visitation teams and early childhood development, to engagement with fathers and plans to expand support with doulas.

https://www.stlouischildrens.org/health-resources/advocacy-outreach/raising-st-louis

"The Case for Change": Addressing New York’s Health Care Challenges

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Key findings from a report titled "The Case for Change" have identified four drivers of some of the most pressing challenges facing health care in New York state. In this conversation, Bea Grause, R.N., J.D., president of the Healthcare Association of New York State, discusses the tough findings and partnerships needed to solve these problems, insights into the correlation between health care and legislative advocacy, and how the report’s learnings are translatable to states around the country.

Caring for Our Kids: How OHSU is Addressing Psychosocial Needs in Complex Pediatric Patients

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Children with serious medical conditions can also face complex psychosocial challenges and barriers, including food and transportation insecurity and housing instability. In this new “Caring for Our Kids” episode, David Wagner, Ph.D., pediatric psychologist at OHSU, discusses the Novel Interventions in Children's Healthcare (NICH) program, and how this innovative approach is transforming care for vulnerable children.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Tackling Today’s Health Care Challenges

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

2025 will bring new and familiar challenges for the health care industry, and the American Hospital Association is ready to support hospitals and health systems across the nation. In the first Leadership Dialogue of 2025, Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and 2025 AHA board chair, talks with two policy experts at the AHA — Stacey Hughes, executive vice president of government relations and public policy, and Ashley Thompson, senior vice president of public policy analysis and development — about the current political climate, the potential impacts to health care policies, and how the AHA is primed to continue its mission to advance health in America.

This podcast has been edited for time. To view the entire video conversation, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8b68lu1kOk

Englewood Health's Strategies to Combat Rising Opioid Use in Post-Pandemic America

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Opioid use has been on the rise in post-pandemic America, and its effects on communities have been devastating. Decreasing opioid use is a major priority for health systems across the nation. In this conversation, Vinnidhy Dave, D.O., hospice specialist and director of palliative medicine at Englewood Health Physician Network, and Lauren Savage, director of population health at Englewood Hospital, discuss what Englewood Health is doing to prevent opioid use in its communities, and how an opioid risk tool provides guidance and protocols to protect higher-risk patients.

How to Survive a Cyberattack with Scripps Health: Part Four

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In the last of this four-part conversation, four leaders from Scripps Health — Chris Van Gorder, president and CEO, Todd Walbridge, senior director of corporate and system safety and security, Shane Thielman, corporate senior vice president and chief information officer, and Gerry Soderstrom, corporate senior vice president and chief audit, compliance and risk officer — discuss the future of cyberattacks on America's health care, the real-time threat to patients, and recovery efforts once an attack is over.

How to Survive a Cyberattack with Scripps Health: Part Three

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

The unprecedented rise of cyberattacks on the nation's health care system has hospitals and health systems deploying multitudes of cyberdefenses. Yet, even with the most innovative shields, cybercriminals can still pierce through. In the third of this four-part conversation, three experts from Scripps Health, Chris Van Gorder, president & CEO, Shane Thielman, corporate senior vice president and chief information officer, and Gerry Soderstrom, corporate senior vice president and chief audit, compliance & risk officer talk through the day the organization experienced a cyberattack, the preparation playbook that leaders rapidly deployed, and what comes first in responding to these types of critical situations.

A Health Equity Transformation Fuels Behavioral Health Access at Boston Medical Center

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In health care, one of the biggest challenges facing patients and families is being able to access appropriate care, and that struggle is even more present in behavioral health. At Boston Medical Center (BMC), a health equity transformation looked to change that reality. In this conversation, three experts from BMC discuss the development of the Health Equity Accelerator, the partnerships needed to sustain the work, and how BMC was able to expand access to behavioral health services to historically underserved communities.

Effective Strategies to Combat Burnout and Promote Wellness in Health Care: Insights from Corewell Health

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Alleviating provider burnout and promoting a culture of wellness are two huge areas of focus for any successful health care organization. But with the rapid-fire pace of health care, what strategies and solutions can be implemented? In this conversation, Kristin Jacob, M.D., medical director of the Office of Physician and APP Fulfillment at Corewell Health West, discusses the organization’s foundation for well-being strategies, the successes they’ve had in reducing burnout, and the vital importance of "change agents" to propel the work forward.

Best of Advancing Health: "AI and ChatGPT" and "De-Escalating Workplace Violence"

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Thanks for listening to the Advancing Health podcast — we hope you have found it engaging and informative! As we wrap up 2024, we’re sharing highlights from two of our most popular episodes of the year. Advancing Health returns with new episodes in 2025. Until then, we hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holidays and a happy New Year!

Best of Advancing Health: "Wellness in the Workforce" and "Obstetric Services Rural America"

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Changing Health Care Landscape with AHA Board Chair-elect Tina Freese Decker

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Workforce issues, financial sustainability and new technologies are just a few of the unknowns facing health care organizations across the United States. But with uncertainty, comes opportunity. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 AHA board chair, and Tina Freese Decker, president and CEO of Corewell Health and AHA board chair-elect, share insights on health care's current and future challenges, the impact the AHA can have on the field, and Tina's excitement as incoming AHA board chair.

This conversation has been edited for time. To view the full video conversation please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJmBETVQOc0

Health Equity at the Center of Rural Care

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Titus Regional Medical Center is the main health care destination for five rural counties in northeast Texas. With that responsibility comes an unshakeable commitment to health equity for all the patients it serves. In this conversation, Terry Scoggin, CEO of Titus Regional Medical Center, discusses how the organization has designed a system of care to ensure that every patient has equitable access, and how the AHA's Health Equity Roadmap has provided valuable resources to support Titus’s mission of transforming the health of its communities.

The Gift of Time: How Behavioral Health Integration Is Giving Back to the Workforce

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

More than 60% of America's practicing psychiatrists are 55 years of age or older, and likely to retire within the next decade. These specialists provide a significant portion of behavioral health services. So what does the future hold for both the behavioral health workforce and their patients? In this conversation, Dylan Panuska, PsyD, clinical psychologist and manager of behavioral health integration with Endeavor Health, showcases examples of how workforce productivity, retention and patient satisfaction are positively impacted by a key factor: integration.

Learn more about behavioral health integration at https://www.aha.org/center/emerging-issues/market-insights/behavioral-health-integration/behavioral-health-integration-treating-whole-person

The Right Kind of Research: AcademyHealth Unveils a Roadmap to Advance Research Equity

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Creating diverse and equitable research is paramount for any health care organization, but making sure those research teams are equitable themselves is just as critical. That's why national nonprofit AcademyHealth has released a new “Roadmap for Researchers” to help ensure and advance this important work. In this conversation, Margo Edmunds, Ph.D., director of the AcademyHealth Center on Diversity, Inclusion and Minority Engagement, discusses the benefits this vital resource can provide to health care research, and the difference it's already making in health systems, nonprofits, and beyond.

To Mitigate and Prevent: CommonSpirit Health's Transparent Culture and Error Reporting Toolkit

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The health care industry does everything possible to mitigate errors, yet mistakes can happen. That's why CommonSpirit Health has worked to adopt an organizational culture of transparency that allows its employees to feel comfortable reporting errors when they occur. In this “Safety Speaks” conversation, CommonSpirit Health's Beth Miller, system director, patient safety-performance improvement, and Austin Peterson, system director, patient harm prevention, discuss how safety transparency benefits both patients and providers, and how a CommonSpirit Health toolkit can help organizations lead the way in error reporting and patient safety.

Preparing for the Future: How the Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative is Transforming Care for America's Aging Population

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 07:00:00 -0400

30 years from now, it's projected that nearly one quarter of America's population will be age 65 or older. To mitigate potential care gaps, the Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative was created to improve health care for older adults. In this conversation, Dave Eaker, geriatric program coordinator at Atrium Health, and Shannon Morton, assistant vice president of patient care services at Atrium Health Cabarrus, discuss the reasons the organization made the jump to join the Initiative, the infrastructure being developed across the system, and the difference it's made for the aging population.

To learn more about the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative, please visit https://www.aha.org/center/age-friendly-health-systems

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Future is Here — Artificial Intelligence and Its Role in Health Care

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Artificial intelligence (AI) in health care isn't an innovation for the distant future; it's already here. But how will it develop across all sectors of the health care field? In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Amy Perry, president and CEO of Banner Health, discusses how AI and other technologies can relieve caregivers of tedious and time-consuming aspects of their jobs, and help organize critical data for caregivers, patients and research.

This podcast has been edited for time. To view the full conversation please visit, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlnpFa4yYPE

Addressing Rising Violence in Health Care: Insights on Collaborative Safety Strategies

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Violence in health care settings has grown alarmingly in recent years, and health care leaders are urgently searching for ways to keep their teams safe. In this new "Safety Speaks" conversation, Barbara Griffith, M.D., president of Duke Raleigh Hospital, discusses the successful steps the organization has taken to address the sharp rise in workplace violence, and how reducing violent incidents requires collaboration among multiple support agencies.

Navigating Rural Health Care: Solutions for Attracting Talent and Caring for the Community

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Dartmouth Health is the most rural academic medical center in the country, and like other rural hospitals and health systems, it faces challenges that affect its ability to attract and recruit top talent. In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health, and 2024 chair of the AHA Board of Trustees, shares how Dartmouth Health has implemented workforce solutions that can be successful anywhere.

What is Resilience Engineering and What Does it Mean for Patient Safety?

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Hospitals and health systems are committed to the mission of patient safety, and the steady improvement in patient safety across the field has been encouraging. But a lingering question remains – can it be sustained? In this conversation, Oren Guttman, M.D., anesthesiologist and vice president of High Reliability & Patient Safety at Thomas Jefferson University, discusses the mindset of resilience engineering, the future of patient safety and the big questions this work reveals.

Culturally-Safe Maternal Care for Indigenous Women

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Indigenous women are more likely to experience complications from pregnancy and childbirth than non-Indigenous women, leading to higher rates of anxiety and depression within those communities. In this conversation, Jennifer Richards, Ph.D., assistant professor at the Center for Indigenous Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and Jennifer Crawford, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and assistant professor at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, discuss the perspectives needed to provide maternal care for Indigenous peoples, and the importance of awareness of their cultural and spiritual practices.

Caring for the Aging Veteran: Age-Friendly Health Systems at the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Approximately nine million military veterans receive their health care through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), and nearly half of them are 65 and older. In this conversation, Kimberly Wozneak, national lead for Age-Friendly Health Systems, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, discusses how the VHA is weaving four foundational age-friendly principles into its care to support the growing number of aging veterans.

To learn more about the Age-Friendly Health Systems movement and the 4Ms, visit AHA.org/agefriendly.

The Value of Veterans in the Health Care Workforce

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

With ongoing workforce challenges, the health care industry is in desperate need of skilled and experienced workers. Military health care veterans, such as medics and corpsmen, are one solution to potentially easing the shortage. In this special Veterans Day conversation, Anne Mork, R.N., vice president/chief nursing officer of ambulatory and nursing support services at UW Health, and Luke Sticht, former vice president and chief nursing officer of American Family Children's Hospital, discuss the wealth of knowledge that military health care professionals can bring to organizations, and how their service experience keeps them focused on the mission to care for others.

Military-Informed Care: What it Means for Veterans and Their Families

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Military-Informed Care: What it Means for Veterans and Their Families

The care needs of military-connected families can look different from those of other patients. Higher emotional or mental stress, and longer rehabilitation, are just a few of the challenges that these families can face. In observation of Veterans Day, Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation, and Kara Walker, M.D., executive vice president and chief population health officer at Nemours Children’s Health, discuss how hospitals and health systems can meet the special health care needs for families who sacrifice the most.

Thinking Outside the Box to Reduce Behavioral Health Stigma and Disparities

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For historically underserved populations, stigma and lack of access to behavioral health services can present huge barriers to treatment. In this conversation, Matthew Hoag, director of integrated behavioral health at Denver Health, shares how the organization is innovating through integration to meet the behavioral health needs of its communities, including with its state-of-the-art mobile opioid treatment unit.

Expanding Telehealth Services and Access for Successful Maternal Care

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The increase in telehealth services has transformed care delivery in America by expanding access for millions. In this conversation, Johnna Nynas, M.D., OB/GYN at Sanford Health Bemidji, discusses the dramatic expansion of maternal telehealth capabilities in Minnesota, as well as an inspiring telehealth program that reaches families in rural areas of the state.

The Emergence of Advanced Practice Providers

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Even a few decades ago, non-physician practitioners, also called advanced practice providers (APPs), barely existed in the health care industry. Today, APPs are found practically everywhere. In this conversation, Michelle Schweitzer, NP, executive director of advanced practice providers at WakeMed, discusses the growing role her APP colleagues play in health care delivery, and how the rise of these unique caregivers benefits both patients and providers.

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Delicate Dance of Integration with Tom Priselac

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Health system integration is one of the many ways hospitals can meet the mission of advancing health, and there can be wide-ranging benefits – from enhanced economies of scale to pooled capabilities. In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Tom Priselac, president and CEO emeritus of Cedars-Sinai, discusses overseeing 30 years of growth and integration at the health system, and the perspectives required to integrate across multiple care areas.

This is an edited conversation. To watch the full video version, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_PsrrmpsAc

Planning for Resiliency in the IV Fluid Supply Chain

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

As Baxter strives to restart its production of critical IV fluids in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, hospitals and health systems nationwide are reviewing and reevaluating their responses to current and future supply chain disruptions. In this conversation, Mark Taylor, M.D., surgical director for surgical operations at Cleveland Clinic, discusses the health system's ongoing IV fluid conservation strategies and the importance of constant and targeted communication during supply chain shortages.

From Ian to Milton: Lessons Learned in Hurricane Response

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

With numerous care locations across Florida, Lee Health has endured three major hurricanes over the past two years: Hurricane Ian in the fall of 2022, and more recently, Hurricanes Helene and Milton. In this conversation, Scott Nygaard, M.D., chief operating officer at Lee Health, discusses the impact these natural disasters have had on the organization, and how their emergency preparedness, response and recovery efforts have helped guide continued care for both patients and caregivers.

This podcast was produced through the Convening Leaders for Emergency and Response (CLEAR) initiative. To learn more, visit: https://www.aha.org/aha-clear

Presented as part of Cooperative Agreement HITEP210047, funded by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). The Health Research & Educational Trust, an American Hospital Association 501(c)(3) nonprofit subsidiary, is a proud partner of this Cooperative Agreement. The contents of this publication are solely the responsibility of the Health Research & Educational Trust and its partners and does not necessarily represent the official policies or views of the Department of Health and Human Services or of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response. Further, any mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

Questions Board Members Should Be Asking to Address Vulnerabilities

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Hospital and health system boards are always looking to solve the most pressing challenges in health care. Asking the right questions and providing proper guidance can help establish plans to combat these issues. In this conversation, James Liggins, Jr., senior counsel at Warner Norcross + Judd, and vice chair of the board of directors at Bronson Healthcare, discusses his work developing a tool for board members that allows them to effectively understand and address areas of concern for their organizations.

Unifying Health Care Employees to Implement Patient-Focused Improvements

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Jefferson Health was a finalist for the AHA's 2024 Quest for Quality Prize, which celebrates hospitals and health systems that are committed to providing exceptional safe, and patient- and family-centered care. In this conversation, Jefferson Health's Cara Martino, DNP, R.N., enterprise vice president of clinical improvement and transformation, and Trish Henwood, M.D., executive vice president and chief clinical officer, discuss the organization's ever-growing patient population, and how an innovative platform is keeping employees unified when identifying and implementing patient-focused improvements.

To learn more about the AHA's Quest for Quality prize visit, https://www.aha.org/about/awards/quest-for-quality

Strategies for Creating an Effective and Diverse Board

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

For health care organizations, recruitment and diversity for the board of trustees is vitally important. In this conversation, Schonay Barnett-Jones, trustee at Children’s National Hospital and AHA board member, discusses strategies for recruiting a diverse board of trustees to any health care organization, and how to engage and retain the next generation of future board members.

To learn more about the American Hospital Association's Trustee Services, please visit https://trustees.aha.org/

The Critical Need for Resource Conservation Plans in the Face of Disasters

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The recent Hurricane Helene disrupted the production and supply of IV fluids — a reminder of our nation’s fragile health care supply chain. In this conversation, Michael Schiller, executive director of the Association for Health Care Resource & Materials Management (AHRMM), and Michael Ganio, senior director of pharmacy practice and quality with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), discuss the need to create a conservation plan for critical patient supplies that could be threatened by a disaster.

Haircuts and Health Checks: A Barbershop Partners with Indiana University Health

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Customers at All in the Wrists barbershop in Indianapolis don't just get a haircut and beard trim at their appointment — they also receive blood pressure checks for hypertension, diabetes education, and important resources to assist with health care barriers. In this conversation, Marvin Taylor, owner of All in the Wrists, and Brownsyne Tucker Edmonds, M.D., vice president and chief health equity officer at Indiana University Health, discuss the importance of barbershops in the African American community, and how community health workers inside these barbershops are providing valuable health care and education.

To see the video on IU Health and All in the Wrists partnership, please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYGawZ34n9s

The Intersection of Health Care and Community with the 2024 Foster G. McGaw Prize Finalists

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Englewood Health and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital were both finalists of the AHA's 2024 Foster G. McGaw Prize, which recognizes the efforts of hospitals and health systems to improve the health and well-being of their communities. In this conversation, Andres Nieto, director of community health outreach and marketing with NewYork-Presbyterian, and Jamie Ketas, vice president of population health with Englewood Health, discuss how communities and health systems can intersect to improve quality of life, and how solutions can target populations with specific health care barriers.

Access and Awareness for Mental Health Support Services

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Creating mental health resources is an important "step one" in broadening patient access. Step two? Getting people to take advantage of that access. In this conversation, Gaurava Agarwal, M.D., chief wellness executive at Northwestern Medicine, shares how the health system approached access awareness within its communities, and the steps needed to ensure that mental health support services are available.

Designing Pregnancy Care to Meet the Needs of Hispanic Families

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

October is National Hispanic Heritage Month. In this conversation, Jennifer Cohen, M.D., medical director of Newborn/Infant Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, King of Prussia, and Katie Costantini, director of maternal care services at Chester County Hospital, discuss the barriers that can affect maternal care in Hispanic populations, and how deploying bilingual volunteers provided the opportunity to learn what worked and what could be be improved.

Caring for Our Kids: Children's Colorado Is Meeting the Needs of Medically Complex Patients

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Some pediatric and adolescent patients are considered to have medical complexity — multiple conditions that require numerous health care service lines. In today's new Caring for Our Kids episode, explore how Children's Colorado has designed seamless care for medically complex kids and their families.

Leadership Dialogue Series: A Passion for Patient Safety with Steven Diaz, M.D.

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Improving patient safety is every caregiver's concern, but what does this look like in health care's rapidly changing environment? In this Leadership Dialogue conversation, Steven Diaz, M.D., chief medical officer at MaineGeneral Health and board member at the American Hospital Association, discusses his passion for patient safety, how his organization strives to meet quality care for its community, and how AI could potentially be incorporated into the overall work of patient safety.

This is an edited conversation. To view the full conversation, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wzia8UmU_qc

"Saving People's Lives": Access to Mental Health and Addiction Services in Rural Communities

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Accessing mental health and addiction services can be especially difficult in rural communities, and solutions can be scarce. In this conversation, Brenda Romero, administrator at Presbyterian Española Hospital, discusses the methods for accessing treatment and the importance of the hospital's innovative and community-focused work.

Clinical Validation Audits and the Impact on Hospitals and Health Systems

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Clinical validation audits are a new tactic that certain commercial insurers are adopting to reduce or deny payment to health care providers. These audits can take months or even years to be adjudicated and resolved. In this conversation, Richelle Marting, director of managed care contracting at North Kansas City Hospital, and Chris Thompson, executive director of reimbursement and compliance for managed care at AdventHealth, discuss the rapid growth in these audits, the financial strain they can put on hospitals and health systems, and what can be done to protect providers.

The Work of Action Communities in Age-Friendly Health Systems

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Since 1982, The John A. Hartford Foundation has been a national leader in raising awareness and improving health care for older adults. In this conversation, Rani Snyder, vice president, Program at The John A. Hartford Foundation, discusses the importance of Action Communities in age-friendly care, and why health organizations should use the tools they provide to build exceptional care frameworks.

Suicide Prevention in Wisconsin’s Farming Communities

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The Farmer Angel Network is a support group devoted to suicide prevention in Wisconsin's farming communities. In this conversation, Brenda Statz, co-founder of the Farmer Angel Network, Carey Craker, marketing and volunteer services associate at Reedsburg Area Medical Center, and Christy Updike, transformation program manager at Sauk Prairie Healthcare, discuss how this impactful work began, the domino effect that suicide can have in farming towns, and the resources available to support families and loved ones.

"This Is Sacred Work": The 2024 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award Winners

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The American Hospital Association's Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award honors the most outstanding examples of health equity across America. In today's conversation, this year's winners discuss the successful strategies they’ve implemented to advance the work of health equity in their hospitals and beyond.

Reflections on Recovery: The Maui Wildfires

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The devastating 2023 Maui wildfires claimed 102 lives, destroyed more than 2,200 structures and caused an estimated $5.5 billion in damages. One year later, as communities recover, caregivers and first responders are reflecting on what was learned and how to prepare for future disasters. In this conversation, Hilton Raethel, president and CEO of the Healthcare Association of Hawaii, describes how the tragedy unfolded, the steps health care providers took in the face of an unparalleled crisis and what can be improved when the next disaster strikes.

This podcast episode is presented as part of Cooperative Agreement 5 HITEP210047-03-00, funded by the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). The Health Research & Educational Trust, an American Hospital Association 501(c)(3) nonprofit subsidiary, is a proud partner of this Cooperative Agreement. The contents of this publication are solely the responsibility of the Health Research & Educational Trust and its partners and does not necessarily represent the official policies or views of the Department of Health and Human Services or of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response. Further, any mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

"Retention is Key": The Satisfaction and Productivity of Integrated Clinicians at Maine Behavioral Healthcare

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Health care leaders are learning that removing silos between physical and mental health care not only benefits patients, but also helps with the recruitment and retention of desperately needed behavioral health specialists. In this conversation, Stacey Ouellette, director of Behavioral Health Integration with Maine Behavioral Healthcare, discusses the positive impact integrated care has had on workplace productivity and satisfaction, and how it's made their teams more connected across the organization.

Caring for Our Kids: A Pediatric Cancer Survivorship Program Delivers Lifelong Care

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Advancing Health's new series, “Caring for Our Kids,” focuses on how pediatric hospitals are meeting the needs of their communities. In this first episode, learn about the Texas Children's Pediatric Cancer Survivorship Program, and the impact it has had on the lives of young cancer patients.

Changing the Tide in Maternal Health Outcomes to Reduce Morbidity and Address Equity

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Most maternal deaths do not occur in the hospital, but after discharge, postpartum to one year. And there are equity challenges; Black women die at three times the rate of white women from birth-related complications. In this conversation, Veronica Gillispie-Bell, M.D., OB-GYN at Ochsner Health, discusses successful strategies to reduce maternal morbidity after childbirth, and how these solutions should always start with equity at the forefront.

“It's a Mindset”: Health Equity at Children's Mercy Kansas City

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Everyone in a health care organization has a role to play to advance health equity, but what does it take to weave this important work into the fabric of everyday operations? In this conversation, Children's Mercy Kansas City's John Cowden, M.D., director of the Culture & Language Coaching Program, and Jessi Johnson, health equity specialist, discuss what makes equity integration at the health system so unique, and how initial discussions with employees helped guide equity principles.

Health Equity Challenges and Opportunities: A Conversation Between the AHA and AMA

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Advancing health equity is a key priority for the American Hospital Association (AHA) and the American Medical Association (AMA), with both developing key initiatives and programs dedicated to these efforts. In this conversation, Joy Lewis, senior vice president of health equity strategies at the AHA, speaks with Aletha Maybank, M.D., senior vice president and chief health equity officer at the AMA, about the challenges in the health equity space, and the opportunities that can make a difference in health care across America.

The 2024 Quest for Quality Prize Honorees

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The American Hospital Association’s Quest for Quality Prize recognizes exceptional health care leadership and innovation in improving quality and advancing health in America’s communities. In this conversation, leaders from the 2024 Quest for Quality winner, WellSpan Health, and finalists Carilion Clinic, Jefferson Health and MUSC Health, discuss their organizations' work in providing safe, patient- and family-centered care, and share how they partner with community organizations to keep quality health care accessible.

Start with Defense: Building a Cyber-Ready Team with Microsoft

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Health care is under constant threat of cyberattacks, but how prepared is the industry to fight back? The lack of resources is especially acute in rural areas. In this conversation, cyber security experts from the AHA and Microsoft, discuss the urgent need to build a cyber strong workforce, particularly in rural hospital and health systems, and how methods such as re-skilling can sustain permanent cyber readiness. For more information on this work, please email: mrhtp@microsoft.com

Mobile Crisis Centers: A Solution for Behavioral Health Access

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Two clinicians and a vehicle — that's the model Sheppard Pratt has been using to provide behavioral health access to its communities. In this conversation, Jason Melegari, R.N., director of clinical services at Sheppard Pratt, discusses how the organization's mobile behavioral health initiative was road tested, and the positive difference it is making for accessibility.

Boston Medical Center: Leading the Way Towards Health Equity and Justice

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Boston Medical Center (BMC) is the winner of the AHA’s 2024 Foster G. McGaw Prize, which recognizes the efforts of hospitals and health systems to improve the health and well-being of their communities. In this conversation, Thea James, M.D., vice president of mission with BMC, discusses the organization's evolution with health disparity work, and how BMC’s creation of the Health Equity Accelerator helped lead the way to achieve health justice in their communities.

It Starts with Culture: Quality and Safety at Emerson Health

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Building a culture of safety is the foundation for any hospital or health system. In this "Safety Speaks" conversation, Christi Barney, R.N., vice president of quality and patient safety at Emerson Health, discusses their innovative approach to culture building, and how quality and safety trainings for all stakeholders drove buy-in and measurable success across the health system.

Youth in Crisis: How an Innovative Program is Addressing Pediatric Mental Health

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Nationwide, there is a critical shortage of trained care providers to meet the needs of kids struggling with mental health issues, and the problem is especially acute in rural areas. In this conversation, three experts from Dartmouth Health discuss their five-part virtual behavioral health training program, "Keeping Students Safe: Supporting Youth in Mental Health Distress." Backed by a federal grant, the program offers tools for care providers to help guide young people through their mental health challenges.

To learn more about Dartmouth Health's innovative program visit https://video.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/playlist/dedicated/1_3g66mb6m/1_pvvjilri

Going International: The FBI's Global Fight Against Cybercrime

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Cybercriminals are ramping up attacks on health care systems throughout the United States, with a majority of these crimes originating from international, state-sponsored bad actors. In this conversation, John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the AHA, talks with Oliver E. Rich, Jr., assistant director of the FBI’s International Operations Division, about the unique ways the bureau operates across the globe, and the essential role that diplomacy and cooperation play in making sure America's essential services are safe and secure.

Piloting Innovative Workforce Support to Put the Focus on Patient Care

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 07:00:00 -0400

A shrinking workforce presents a host of challenges for any health care organization. With fewer caregivers available, hospital staff can have their bandwidth stretched to the breaking point. In this conversation, Darryl A. Elmouchi, M.D., chief operating officer of Corewell Health, discusses the current constraints facing caregivers when managing their day-to-day responsibilities, and how Corewell piloted innovative programs to help their employees get back to the main priority of patient care.

Hospital Boards Lay the Foundation for Quality and Safety

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Hospital boards are comprised of leaders from all types of professional backgrounds, and are also primarily responsible for developing the quality and safety plans for their organizations. In this new "Safety Speaks" conversation, Jamie Orlikoff, president of Orlikoff & Associates, Inc. and national adviser on governance and leadership at the AHA, discusses the role hospital boards can play in supporting quality and safety within their health systems, and how board members who aren't clinicians or health care administrators can make a difference in patient safety.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Anxiety Disorders and Ways to Support Mental Health

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 AHA board chair, speaks with her colleague Robert E. Brady, director of Anxiety Disorders Service at Dartmouth Health, about different types of anxieties and their prevalence in today’s culture. The two also discuss how the health care community is being acutely affected by the rise in anxiety disorders.

This is an edited conversation. To hear the full version please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T-queynyeLE

Cybercriminals Know Your Vulnerabilities: How to Fight Back?

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

2024 has seen a sharp uptick in ruthless tactics by cybercriminals, who are now directly threatening patients with release of sensitive information, photos and medical records. In one instance, cybercriminals went as far as submitting a phony incident report to local police, triggering a harrowing visit from a SWAT Team. In this conversation, John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the AHA, talks with two experts about the rise in these tactics, and what’s needed to fight back and prepare against these threat-to-life crimes.

For more information on cybersecurity and ways to protect your organization, please visit www.aha.org/cybersecurity

What is Cognitive Load and How to Manage It for Clinicians?

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Clinicians bring all of their skill and mental acuity to treat the whole patient, but there are many factors that can derail their ability to provide patient care. In this new "Safety Speaks" conversation, Michael Privitera, M.D., professor emeritus of psychiatry at the University of Rochester Medical Center, discusses ways to ease the cognitive load that many physicians and caregivers face, and how simple steps can be implemented to make it easier to focus on what's most important.

To learn more and sign up for the Patient Safety Initiative please visit https://www.aha.org/aha-patient-safety-initiative

Addressing Mental Health Disparities Among Racial and Ethnic Minorities

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Access to quality mental and physical health services can be a complex challenge, but for individuals of color and people with severe or chronic mental illnesses, finding treatment can be exceptionally hard. In this conversation, Tracey Lavallias, executive director of behavioral health at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, discusses potential solutions to make access easier for patients, including cultural competency training, medical interpreter services, and most importantly, integration of mental and physical health services.

How a Rural Health System Continues to Provide Essential Obstetric Services

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Prior to 2022, Kittitas Valley Healthcare (KVH) was delivering 300 – 350 babies each year, offering the region's only comprehensive OB/GYN services. But when its three full-time OB/GYNs left, KVH was suddenly faced with a huge problem. In this conversation, Julie Petersen, CEO of Kittitas Valley Healthcare, discusses how her organization kept its promise to preserve essential obstetric services for women of all ages.

The 2024 AHA Rural Advocacy Agenda

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The American Hospital Association has made improving access to rural health care a top priority, and its 2024 AHA Rural Advocacy Agenda lays the groundwork to improve the system as a whole. In this conversation, three AHA experts drill down on specific steps needed to help rural health care stay financially sound and ready to serve.

This discussion took place at the 2024 Rural Health Care Conference in Orlando, Florida.

Unifying Hospital Boards on Quality and Safety

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

In this new “Safety Speaks” conversation, Harry S. Smith, board chair of Valley Health System and member of the AHA Committee on Governance, discusses how their organization rearranged its governance system to ensure that quality and patient safety standards were being met across the board.

To learn more and sign up for the Patient Safety Initiative please visit https://www.aha.org/aha-patient-safety-initiative

From Surviving to Thriving: Ways to Boost Employee Retention in Rural Health Care

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 07:00:00 -0400

The reality of today's health care workforce is that demand outstrips supply. For rural health care providers, building and sustaining a strong and vibrant workforce is paramount, but not easily achieved. In this conversation, Brandie Manuel, R.N., chief patient safety and quality officer at Jefferson Healthcare, discusses how the use of TeamSTEPPS and other tools are making a big difference in creating a thriving employee pipeline.

Optimizing Whole Person Care through Integration

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Providing optimal care to patients, regardless of where they live, can be a tall task for a hospital or health system. But with the advent of technology and integrated clinics, Henry Ford Health System is leading the way in serving its growing communities. In this conversation, Cathrine Frank, M.D., chair of psychiatry and behavioral health services at Henry Ford Health, shares how they utilize a virtual team approach to provide reachable care, and how innovations like a patient tracking registry are benefiting the whole person.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Sustaining the Nursing Workforce with Joy Parchment, R.N.

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

America is facing an alarming shortage of nurses. Many experienced nurses are retiring. Burnout and other stressors, like an increase in workplace violence, also are compelling more nurses to leave their jobs. In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 AHA board chair, talks with Joy Parchment, R.N., assistant professor at the University of Central Florida College of Nursing and board member of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL), about ways that care providers can retain nurses and build a talent pipeline of future nurses.

This is an edited conversation. To hear the full version please visit https://youtu.be/7KJEMjIeN5M

The Benefits of Joining an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) with Augusta Health

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Health care pressures are often magnified for rural caregivers, yet some are developing unique solutions for these turbulent times. In this conversation, Mary Mannix, CEO and president of Augusta Health, discusses the impact that cross-training has had on high-quality patient care in their community, and how the transition to an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) ensures patients are getting the right care at the right time.

Workforce Safety Means Patient Safety

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Hospitals and health systems never stop working to advance patient safety, while collaborating and innovating together for the best quality outcomes. Welcome to “Safety Speaks,” an Advancing Health series where hospital and health system leaders share successes from their organizations’ patient safety efforts. In this conversation, Tom Peterson, M.D., vice president and chief safety officer at Trinity Health, discusses how Trinity's focus on both workforce and patient safety is paying off.

To learn more and sign up for the Patient Safety Initiative please visit https://www.aha.org/aha-patient-safety-initiative

The Value of Integrating Behavioral and Physical Health

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Overall health does not fit neatly into individual buckets, which is why today's caregivers are designing treatment plans that integrate behavioral and physical health. In this conversation, Jerry Halverson, M.D., consult liaison psychiatrist at Rogers Behavioral Health, discusses the impact of these integrations on patient outcomes, and how payers are providing reimbursement for these rapidly growing care models.

AHA in the Field: Innovations Across America's Health Care System

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

In order for the American Hospital Association to be the most effective voice it can be for its members, personal visits to member hospitals and health systems are a must. Face-to-face conversations with health care leadership are invaluable, and a big part of the job for Chris DeRienzo, M.D., senior vice president and chief physician executive at the AHA. In this conversation, Dr. DeRienzo shares what he has learned from visiting with members, and how they are innovating unique solutions to combat current health care challenges.

Beyond the Four Walls: Sentara Health's Commitment to Bringing Care to Communities

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Health care providers are working hard to move beyond the hospital walls and expand access into the communities they serve. Sentara Health is one of many organizations that are creatively identifying populations with the greatest need for health care and community services. In this conversation, Iris Lundy, R.N., vice president of health equity at Sentara Health, discusses their thoughtful approach to delivering accessible and high-quality health care to those who need it most.

It Takes a Village: A New Approach to Opioid Abuse Helps Mothers and Babies

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

As opioid abuse has reached epidemic proportions, the number of babies born dependent on these drugs also has increased dramatically. The award-winning WISH (Women and Infant Substance Help) Center at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital is combating this serious problem with innovative and people-first solutions that help mothers get off and stay off opioids and other substances. In this conversation, Chris DeRienzo, M.D., SVP and chief physician executive at the AHA, speaks with three WISH Center experts about how its approach is helping to protect the health of new mothers and their babies.

For more information on the SSM WISH Center visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzaZZrLRAn0&t=1s

#CHIWeek #CHI

De-escalating Workplace Violence by 75% with WellSpan Health

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

As we observe AHA’s 8th annual #HAVHope Day, it's an important reminder that many hospital and health system leaders are looking for solutions to address the root causes of violence in their organizations and communities. Some AHA members have already figured out how to make their organizations a safer and more peaceful environment in which to receive care. In this conversation, Kenneth Rogers, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer at WellSpan Health, discusses how the implementation of their Behavioral Health Emergency Response Team has successfully de-escalated workplace violence incidents by 75% since 2019, by increasing capacity for their team members to respond to situations that could result in violence. #HAVhope

How to Survive a Cyberattack with Scripps Health: Part Two

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

Hospitals and health systems have their hands full coping with the scary reality of a ransomware attack, but there are also civil liability concerns that arise in the fallout of a health care cybercrime. In the second of this two-part conversation, John Riggi, national advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the AHA, and Chris Van Gorder, president & CEO of Scripps Health, explore the underdiscussed aspects in the aftermath of a cyber-attack, and the necessary support from the federal government.

How to Survive a Cyberattack with Scripps Health: Part One

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 07:00:00 -0400

In response to the alarming rise of ransomware attacks, hospitals and health systems must stay vigilant by playing defense, having a mitigation plan in place, and keeping lines of communication open with federal law enforcement. But even when it's followed, it's no guarantee. Scripps Health did everything right, yet in May of 2021, a serious incursion occurred anyway. In part one of this two-part conversation, Chris Van Gorder, president and CEO of Scripps Health, joins John Riggi, National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the AHA, about how his organization responded when cyber criminals attacked and breached the defenses of the well-prepared health system.

The Impact of the New Prior Authorization Rule

Thu, 30 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Prior authorization means getting approval from your health plan before scheduling a medical service, but many clinicians and patients say prior authorization has become an administrative nightmare, delaying or even denying needed medical care. In mid-January, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) issued a final rule designed to address some of the widespread difficulties. In this conversation, Andrea Preisler, senior associate director of administrative simplification policy at the AHA, Jennifer Cameron, executive director of Patient Access at Children's National Health System and David Jacobson, M.D., division chief of blood and marrow transplantation at Children's National Hospital, discuss what the new prior authorization rule means for making sure clinicians can do what they do best: taking care of their patients.

Caregivers Need Care Too

Tue, 28 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

As Americans age, health care is seeing a shift in addressing the unique needs of older adults. But what about those caring for their loved ones? In this conversation, Diane Mariani, program manager at Rush University Medical Center, discusses their Caring for Caregivers program, which shares resources and guidance to family and friends who care for older adults, while helping them better manage their own health and wellness. To watch the video version of this podcast visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRIIvSuEmMc

Providing Behavioral Health Support for Older Adults

Tue, 21 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

According to the World Health Organization, behavioral health conditions among older populations are often underrecognized, undertreated and stigmatized. Broaddus Hospital, a critical access hospital and part of Davis Health System, tackled this problem head-on with the development of Senior Life Solutions, an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed for patients 65 and older. In this conversation, Broaddus Hospital's Dana Gould, CEO, and Donetta McVicker, program director of Senior Life Solutions, share how they are working to identify and fill the unique mental health needs of their older community members.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Behavioral Health Solutions With Jeremy Musher, M.D., of Lifepoint Health

Mon, 20 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Across the country, hospitals and health systems are moving to fully integrate behavioral health treatment as a core part of patient-centered care. In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 AHA board chair, talks with Jeremy Musher, M.D., chief behavioral medical officer at Lifepoint Health, about common obstacles in the behavioral health field, including access and reimbursement, as well as ways to approach mental health stigmas.

Converting to Rural Emergency Hospitals

Thu, 16 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

In 2020, Congress acted to prevent any more loss of essential health care services in rural areas by creating a new designation: Rural Emergency Hospitals (REHs). REHs became official on January 1, 2023. Since then, a growing number of rural care providers have voluntarily converted to this category. In this discussion, two rural health care leaders assess how the conversion to Rural Emergency Hospital is proceeding, and how to build trust and buy-in from patients and communities.

Training Community Health Workers to Improve Health Equity

Tue, 14 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Community health workers (CHWs) serve as a bridge between social and clinical care, providing essential outreach and advocacy to populations with unmet social needs. Understanding the importance of CHWs, Montefiore Medical Center created the Community Health Worker Institute to standardize CHW training and ensure that the patients they serve receive the best possible care. In this conversation, Renee Whiskey-LaLanne, director of community partnerships at Montefiore's Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Kevin Fiori, M.D., vice chair of community health and engagement at Montefiore Health System, discuss how the lofty dream of an institute turned into reality, as well as the strategies for addressing social determinants of health.

Beyond Birth: How Moms in Health Care Can Make It Work

Sun, 12 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

In addition to caring for patients, many health care providers have an equally important role at home — being parents to young children. Given the pressures of parenting, what are hospitals and health systems doing to retain new parents, especially moms, in the health care workforce? In the final episode of this award-winning series, learn how health care organizations are supporting new moms to enable them to thrive at work, and most importantly, at home. For more resources on maternal health or to listen to previous Beyond Birth episodes, visit www.aha.org/betterhhealthformothersandbabies.

Helping Boards Help Rural Hospitals

Thu, 09 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

The constant strain of workforce and financial issues are proving difficult to solve for rural health care providers. In this conversation, Barbara Sowada, president of the Board of Trustees at Memorial Hospital, discusses the role board members can play in helping their hospitals and health systems navigate today’s pressing problems, and how the AHA’s resources and educational materials can provide valuable assistance.

Helping Parents and Kids Talk About Mental Health

Tue, 07 May 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Despite the fact that half of all mental health issues begin before age 14, most parents can have difficulty talking with their kids about mental health concerns. AdventHealth for Children has created "Be a Mindleader,” a preventive campaign to help parents and their kids open the door to difficult, but necessary conversations on mental health. In this conversation, Jessica Galo, director of specialty care at AdventHealth for Children, and Jaeann Ashton, marketing director of Women's and Children's at AdventHealth, explore how the “Be a Mindleader” campaign is leading the way to improving adolescent mental health with these life-changing conversations.

Supporting Intensive Outpatient Perinatal Care

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

There are a host of medical issues that can come with pregnancy and giving birth. An often-overlooked aspect of pregnancy and motherhood is that some new mothers do better with intensive outpatient perinatal care, which is an elevated level of support. Ascension Alexian Brothers - Behavioral Health Hospital is among a small number of providers specializing in providing intensive outpatient perinatal care. In this conversation, two behavioral health experts from Ascension's outpatient program share the formula for its success in helping at-risk new moms.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Partnering for Health Equity with Corewell Health

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0400

In the current health care landscape, hospitals and health systems have been focusing their attention on tackling the social determinants of health in their communities. To achieve this, they are working hand in hand with community stakeholders, reaching areas where zip codes can often determine health outcomes. In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 AHA board chair, talks with Lynn Todman, vice president of health equity and community partnerships at Corewell Health, about how care providers are reaching within their community to reinforce strong health habits and individual wellness. To listen to the full conversation visit https://youtu.be/mxmS4GuJCmY

How to Reach the Next Generation of Health Care Workers with Hannibal Regional Healthcare System

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Recruiting a young and engaged workforce is particularly challenging for rural care providers. Innovative solutions such as signing bonuses and tuition payment are familiar tools many health care employers are using in employee recruitment. In this conversation, Susan Wathen, vice president of human resources at Hannibal Regional Healthcare System, discusses their unique approaches to finding and retaining future health care employees.

Peer-to-Peer Solutions for a Healthy Workforce: Lessons from NYC Health + Hospitals

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

The mental and physical well-being of the nation’s caregivers has been a main priority for health care leaders across the country, but implementing support programs across large organizations can be challenging. NYC Health + Hospitals has faced the challenge with their Helping Healers Heal network, a peer-to-peer support program that helps care teams stay physically and mentally healthy. In this conversation, Jeremy Segall, chief wellness officer at NYC Health + Hospitals, discusses the system's various well-being programs, as well as the steps needed to move these programs forward in big organizations.

Joining Forces in Support of Mental and Behavioral Health

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Psychiatric hospitals and community mental health centers (CMHCs) often work independently in their efforts to meet patients’ needs. Butler Hospital decided to break down these silos by forging a close and cooperative relationship with a CMHC — The Providence Center. In this conversation, Mary Marran, president and CEO of Butler Hospital, describes how the enhanced partnership between the two mental health service providers has made a big difference in coordinating services and resources for their patients.

Training Future Health Care Leaders to Address Health Disparities

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 20:00:00 -0400

John Bluford’s distinguished career in hospital and health system administration has spanned more than four decades, and he has been recognized by Modern Healthcare and Becker's Hospital Review as one of the Most Influential People in Healthcare. He is also the founder of the Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute (BHLI), a professional development program that introduces talented minority undergraduate scholars to health care administration. In this conversation, Bluford describes how the Institute is training young and diverse talent to assume leadership roles.

San Luis Valley Hospital Delivers When Families Need Obstetric Care

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Rural hospitals in the United States are struggling to maintain obstetric services, and in the last five years more than 300 birthing units across the country have shut down. San Luis Valley Hospital is fighting this trend, implementing creative strategies to keep obstetric services open for their communities. In this conversation, San Luis Valley Hospital's Monica Hinds, R.N., director of emergency services and obstetrics, and Stephanie Posorske, certified nurse midwife, discuss their approach to cross-training units with minimal resources, and partnering with community stakeholders to keep the lights on for new and future families.

The First 1,000 Days of Life: Creating Brighter Futures for New Moms and Babies

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Welcome to “Rural,” a yearlong series devoted to rural hospitals and health systems in America. Being a new parent is challenging in the best of circumstances, but it is even harder for expecting and new moms struggling with social and behavioral health needs. In this conversation, two experts from Intermountain Health discuss their "First 1,000 Days of Life" program that provides wraparound services for at-risk new moms. Then, Lacey Starcevich, a former program participant, shares her emotional journey to building a healthy life for herself and her new family. This podcast was recorded at this year's AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference.

Part Two: Cyberthreats and Assessing Third-Party Risk with Providence

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

For cybercriminals, the backdoor into the protected systems of hospitals and health systems often comes via a third party. In this second of a two-part conversation, hosted by the AHA's National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk John Riggi, Providence’s Adam Zoller, chief information security officer, and Katie Adams, cybersecurity director of clinical technology services, discuss the potential cyberthreats posed by third-party medical devices, and strategies to keep third-parties open and transparent with organizations.

Part One: Cyberthreats and Assessing Third-Party Risk with Providence

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

More than one in every three Americans had their health care records stolen or compromised in 2023, creating threats to hospitals and health systems across the nation. For cybercriminals, the backdoor into the protected systems of hospitals and health systems often comes via a third party. In this first of a two-part conversation, hosted by the AHA's National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk John Riggi, Providence’s Adam Zoller, chief information security officer, and Katie Adams, cybersecurity director of clinical technology services, discuss the potential cyberthreats posed by third parties, and prevention strategies to keep organizations secure and alert.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Investing for Impact with Healthcare Anchor Network

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Investing in the health and well-being of communities is a core mission for all hospitals and health systems. Their community investment can take many forms, including new housing programs, transportation outlets for patients and on-site daycare facilities. In this conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 Chair of AHA's Board, talks with David Zuckerman, president and founder of the Healthcare Anchor Network, to discuss the ways that anchor organizations are creating community outreach, and how impact investing is making a huge difference for economic development.

Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling With Roxie Wells, M.D.

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

In the health care field, women occupy only 15% of C-suite executive positions, and for women of color that percentage is even smaller. The importance of gender and racial diversity in health care leadership is clearer than ever, and organizations dedicated to equity in executive roles are building successful visions for the future. In this conversation, Roxie Wells, M.D., senior vice president chief physician executive and strategy officer with Novant Health Coastal Market, discusses her long journey to and through the health care C-suite, and the importance of mentoring young women leaders through the glass ceiling and beyond.

Integrating Age-Friendly Care in an Emergency Department With Sharp Grossmont

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

The number of adults age 65 or older will reach about 95 million in the United States by the year 2060. Hospital emergency departments will need to showcase their flexibility by adapting models of care to address the unique care needs of older adults. In this conversation, Julie Dye, clinical nurse specialist in geriatrics at Sharp Grossmont Hospital, discusses the benefits of participating in the Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation program and the Age-Friendly Health Systems initiative. She describes how Sharp Grossmont blends case worker skills and clinical expertise to identify gaps in care for older adult patients. For more information on Age-Friendly Health Systems, visit www.aha.org/agefriendly.

No Vacancy: How Dartmouth Health is Solving Workforce Shortages

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Employee vacancies have hit the health care field hard, making it difficult to consistently provide the high-quality care communities expect from their hospitals and health systems. Dartmouth Health faced this problem head-on, establishing a robust set of apprenticeships and career pathway training programs to ensure their workforce is being professionally developed, and most importantly, retained. In this conversation, Carolyn Isabelle, director of workforce development at Dartmouth Health, discusses the health system's numerous approaches to recruitment, and the successful strategies that support a healthy and engaged workforce.

Metropolitan Anchor Hospitals: Anchoring Community Health With NYC Health + Hospitals

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 21:00:00 -0400

For decades, Metropolitan Anchor Hospitals (MAHs) have provided critical health care and social services to diverse populations in the nation’s cities. MAHs and health systems, like NYC Health + Hospitals, are foundational to their community, providing comprehensive, equity-focused care. In this conversation, Deborah Brown, senior vice president of external and regulatory affairs at NYC Health + Hospitals, discusses innovative solutions to common MAH challenges, and the many ways in which the massive public health system meets its mission of taking care of every patient who walks in their doors. For more information on Metropolitan Anchor Hospitals visit https://www.aha.org/fact-sheets/2022-10-24-fact-sheet-metropolitan-anchor-hospitals

Reimagining the Workforce: Strategies from the 2024 AHA Health Care Workforce Scan

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Without a strong and healthy workforce, providing exceptional health care will always be difficult. Addressing the root causes of emerging and continuing workforce issues will always remain a top priority for the AHA and its members. In this conversation, Ron Werft, president and CEO of Cottage Health, and Felicia Sadler, vice president of quality at Relias, discuss the valuable insights and real-world approaches outlined in the 2024 AHA Health Care Workforce Scan, which helps organizations reimagine, redesign and transform their workforce strategies.

ChatGPT: Is it Practical for Health Care Data Analytics?

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

After launching in November 2022, it took ChatGPT just two months to become the fastest growing consumer app in history — proof of the rapid adoption of AI technology. In this conversation, three experts from the American Hospital Association discuss the game-changing applications of ChatGPT and AI for health care data analytics, and some of the potential pitfalls.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Driving Community Health Improvement With SBH Health System

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

For hospitals and health systems of every size and location, it’s critically important to adapt to the needs of their communities. Over the years, SBH Health System has shown its adaptability, evolving with shifting demographics and social determinants of health. In today’s conversation, Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and 2024 Chair of AHA's Board, talks with David Perlstein, M.D., president and CEO of SBH Health System, to discuss how the organization is proactively improving the health and well-being of its patient population and community.

Beyond Birth: Matters of the Heart With Orlando Health

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

This special series explores the medical complications that can accompany pregnancy, successful prenatal and postpartum treatment programs, and how hospitals and health systems are addressing the social needs of new mothers. Pregnancy is a major stressor on a woman’s body, with cardiovascular conditions being one of the most prevalent complications and leading causes of maternal mortality. In this episode, learn how Orlando Health is reaching outside its walls to support heart-healthy pregnancies and postpartum periods for new mothers.

A Portfolio of Community Investment With Advocate Health

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Hospitals and health systems are rightly called cornerstones of their communities, and none take that mission more seriously than Advocate Health. The health system works with local partners to address a variety of community needs, providing nearly $6 billion in community benefits in 2023. In this conversation, Kinneil Coltman, chief community and social impact officer at Advocate Health, discusses Advocate’s wide-ranging programs and initiatives, including food insecurity, affordable housing and meaningful employment.

A Game of Cat and Mouse: How the FBI is Confronting The Rise of Cyberattacks in Health Care

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

Hackers and cybercriminals are targeting hospitals and health systems at alarming rates, disrupting operations and threatening direct patient care. In this conversation, Bryan Smith, recently retired section chief of the Cyber Criminal Operations Section with the FBI, discusses how the Bureau tackles the huge challenge of protecting the nation's caregivers from these attacks, and how partnerships are crucial in prevailing against cybercriminals.

Sparking Social Connection and Community With Indiana University Health

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 21:00:00 -0400

In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued a shocking 80-plus page advisory declaring loneliness and social isolation as reaching epidemic levels in American society. Ready to act, Indiana University Health was among the first large health systems to develop a care network to spark social connection and community. In this conversation, Jay Foster, vice president of spiritual care with Indiana University Health, and Shadreck Kamwendo, director of the Congregational Care Network, talk about the difference the network is making in the lives of Indiana residents and beyond, and the resources available for those in need.

For more information on the network visit https://iuhealth.org/patient-family-support/support-care/chaplaincy-services

The Growing Role of Chief Wellness Officers in Health Care

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 20:30:00 -0400

In U.S. health care there has been a significant increase in the number of chief wellness officers (CWOs) employed by hospitals and health systems. CWOs are an essential part of a health care worker's mental and physical support structure, providing opportunities and resources whenever needed. In this conversation, Jonathan Ripp, M.D., senior associate dean for well-being and resilience and chief wellness officer of Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, discusses his role as one of the nation's first chief wellness officers, and how the importance of employee wellness has evolved in hospitals and health systems in the last decade.

The Effects of Medicare Advantage on Rural Hospitals With St. Bernards Healthcare

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 21:30:00 -0400

Half of all Medicare beneficiaries get their benefits through Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, which are offered by private companies and in theory should provide the same level of coverage of traditional Medicare. However, some MA plans have made the process of getting a claim covered a nightmare for patients, hospitals and health systems. In this conversation, Chris Barber, president and CEO of St. Bernards Healthcare, discusses the overwhelming problems certain MA plan practices can create for patients and their caregivers, especially for rural hospitals and health systems who face a unique set of challenges in caring for their communities.

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Rise of AI in Health Care With ChristianaCare

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 22:00:00 -0400

The influx of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care is here to stay, yet there is considerable debate about the best and most effective ways to safely employ it. In this conversation, Joanne Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and the 2024 Chair of AHA's Board, and Janice Nevin, M.D., president and CEO of ChristianaCare, discuss what the rise of AI means for health care organizations and their employees, as well the marked improvements that this type of intelligence can have on hospital and health system efficiency.

Beyond Birth: Navigating Perinatal Depression With Endeavor Health

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:00:00 -0400

This special series explores the medical complications that can accompany pregnancy, successful prenatal and postpartum treatment programs, and how hospitals and health systems are addressing the social needs of new mothers. For many new mothers, the transition to parenthood can trigger depression and anxiety. In this episode, Laura La Porte, LCSW, manager of the Perinatal Depression Program at Endeavor Health, and new mom Anna Ma, discuss how the program supports a new mother's mental health and provides avenues for parents to seek help.

Peer Support and Building an Infrastructure of Employee Mental Wellness

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 20:00:00 -0400

For many clinicians the pressure of treating a never-ending line of patients can be stressful. The COVID pandemic has been a health care game changer, and its lasting effect on care teams accelerated issues like burnout and the need to address well-being. In this conversation, Suzanne Bentley, M.D., chief wellness officer and director of simulation, innovation and research at the New York City Health and Hospitals Elmhurst, discusses the critical role that their peer support program played in employee mental health and the impact of building infrastructure focused on the well-being of staff.

The Evolving Role of the Physician Leader

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 20:00:00 -0400

One hallmark of America's rapidly changing health care system is the evolving role of physician leaders who have chosen to wear two leadership hats as both doctor and administrator. As physicians they must make quick and decisive clinical decisions about a patient’s care, while as physician-administrators they often face longer-term organizational challenges that require different types of problem-solving approaches. In this conversation, Chris DeRienzo, M.D., senior vice president and chief physician executive at the American Hospital Association, explores how today’s physician leaders can reconcile the demands of two different jobs and support both the patient and their organization's long-term goals.

Health Care Transformation Begins With Its People

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 21:00:00 -0400

In today's health care field, leaders must address a multitude of complex and intertwined challenges. One of the most important is supporting the well-being of their clinicians. In this conversation, experts from Kaiser Permanente and Mass General Brigham discuss how their organizations are using innovative workforce approaches to give their clinicians the resources and skills needed to thrive professionally and personally. This podcast is brought to you by Valor Performance. Visit https://www.valorperform.com/ to learn more.

Best of Advancing Health 2023: From Quiet Quitting to Sustainable Well-Being

Tue, 26 Dec 2023 20:45:00 -0400

Thanks for listening to the Advancing Health podcast and we hope you have found it engaging and informative! As we wind up 2023 we wanted to re-release one of our most popular episodes from the last year. Advancing Health returns with new episodes in 2024. Until then we hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year!

A National Staffing Emergency in Rural Health Care

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 21:30:00 -0400

Attracting and retaining skilled health care workers in rural settings is more difficult than ever before, with increasing competition from other employers and dwindling applications. But rural health care leaders aren't throwing in the towel. In this conversation, Kevin Stansbury, CEO of Lincoln Health, Debra Rudquist, president of Amery Hospital, and Karen Cheeseman, CEO of Mackinac Straits Health System, discuss the new ways they are retaining their current workforce, and how they are forging new paths to attract future generations of health care workers.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Redefining Health Care for 2024 With Dartmouth Health

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Health care has experienced challenges and tribulations over this past year, but this also has created opportunities and advancements to help positively elevate the field. In this conversation, John Haupert, president and CEO of Grady Health and the 2023 Chair of AHA’s Board, and Joanne Conroy, M.D., CEO and president of Dartmouth Health and incoming 2024 AHA Board Chair, discuss the multiple health care priorities of 2024, and how hospitals and health systems can redefine health care delivery.

The Well-being Impact of Northwestern Medicine's Scholars of Wellness Program

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 21:30:00 -0400

In recent years, American health care has become acutely aware of the importance of well-being for its workers. To address the mental stresses of health care, Chicago’s Northwestern Medicine established the Scholars of Wellness program, focusing on understanding what well-being actually means, and how it can be woven into organizational culture. In this discussion, Gaurava Agarwal, M.D., vice president and chief wellness executive at Northwestern Medicine and director of faculty wellness at Northwestern University, and Samantha Saggese, physician assistant of nephrology and hypertension at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, explain the difference the Scholars of Wellness program is making, and how it could be adopted for the benefit of hospitals and health systems across the nation.

Why Nurses on Your Board Matter

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 21:30:00 -0400

The push for increased diversity and inclusion on boards of governance for hospitals and health systems is a necessity for success. A 2023 AHA national survey found that boards are paying increased attention to bringing diverse viewpoints to their membership, including from one particular group — nurses. In this conversation, Ellen Brzytwa, R.N., trustee at the Cleveland Clinic, discusses her mission of bringing more nurses into board positions, and how her own experience demonstrated that more hospital boards should have nurses as trustee members.

Meeting Demand: Creating a New Pipeline of Health Care Workers

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 21:30:00 -0400

The health care field needs workers, and the demand will increase even more in the years to come. Grady Health System realized that accessing a key demographic could unlock solutions to these labor shortages. In this conversation, Grady Health System’s Yolanda Wimberly, M.D., senior vice president and chief health equity officer, and Felicia Mobley, Ph.D., director of health equity, discuss their new teen experience and leadership program, and how providing hands-on internships for local teens is helping to build its workforce pipeline for decades to come.

Workforce Burnout: Embedding an Organizational Culture of Wellness

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 21:45:00 -0400

High levels of stress and burnout in the health care field not only cause more errors on the job, but can cost hospitals and health systems millions of dollars to replace departing staff. Having a robust employee wellness program has become a huge priority, moving the needle in recruiting and retaining staff. In this conversation, Kristine Olson, M.D., chief wellness officer at Yale New Haven Hospital, discusses the steps to developing organization-wide wellness and well-being, and how these types of programs are creating positive results in their workforce.

Predicting the Patient: Using Analytics for Better Outcomes

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 21:45:00 -0400

The Electronic Health Record (EHR) is essential for clinical and nursing teams to make critical patient care decisions, but what if even more patient data could be accessed? Through the use of predictive analytics, a patient’s care team can predict where the patient’s condition is heading, which leads to more informed care decisions. In this conversation, Natalie Correll-Yoder, critical care clinical nurse specialist with NorthBay Health, and Nikki Rasmussen, senior clinical account manager with Spacelabs Healthcare, discuss one such predictive analytics tool, the Rothman Index, and how it made a huge impact for NorthBay Health's employees, and most importantly, its patients. This podcast is brought to you by Spacelabs Healthcare. To learn more about Spacelabs Healthcare please visit www.spacelabshealthcare.com

A Workforce for the New Era of Equitable Health Care

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

It’s estimated that the health care industry will need at least an additional 3.5 million workers in the next five years to meet demand, but where will they come from? Health care experts say there is a crucial component of new talent that is being overlooked — community health workers. In this conversation, hear from three experts who believe that expanding and integrating this talent pool into America's hospitals and health systems could provide a bridge to meeting future health care needs. To learn more about the AHA's Institute for Diversity and Health Equity please visit https://ifdhe.aha.org/

Beyond Birth: Understanding Perinatal Depression With UMass Memorial Health

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

American health care has come a long way over the years, but there is at least one glaring exception — maternal health. This three-part series explores the medical complications that can accompany pregnancy, successful prenatal and postpartum treatment programs, and how hospitals and health systems are addressing the social needs of new mothers. In this episode, Tiffany Moore Simas, M.D., chair of obstetrics and gynecology at UMass Memorial Health, discusses the concerning prevalence of perinatal depression, and the options available to provide a lifeline for mothers.

For more information on UMass Memorial Health's efforts visit www.umass.edu/lifeline4moms

Better Behavioral Health Care Through Collaboration and Virtual Care

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 22:00:00 -0400

In the U.S. health care system, the demand for behavioral health care has long outpaced availability, with many patients forced to turn to their primary care providers for help. To find a solution, Henry Ford Health System decided to get creative with a new collaborative care program that for the first time integrated primary care with behavioral health. In this conversation, four clinicians from Henry Ford discuss the beginnings of the program and how collaboration and technology have made it easier to see patients than ever before.

Visit www.aha.org/behavioralhealth to learn more information.

The Evolution of Rural Emergency Hospitals as a New Model of Care

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

Rural Emergency Hospitals (REHs) officially became a new type of care provider on January 1, 2023, expanding the scope of services that rural providers can offer. In this conversation, Laura Appel, executive vice president of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association, and Christina Campos, CEO at Guadalupe County Hospital, discuss what’s involved in converting to and meeting the eligibility requirements of a Rural Emergency Hospital, and what patients stand to gain from it.

The Future of Rural Hospitals and Health Systems

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

An estimated 57 million rural Americans depend on their hospital as an important source of care and critical pillar of their community. In this conversation, Joanne Conroy, M.D., president and CEO of Dartmouth Health and board chair-elect at the AHA, discusses the future of rural hospitals and health systems in the U.S., and the possible solutions to providing quality and cost-efficient care for the communities that need it most. November 16 is #NationalRuralHealthDay

Visit www.aha.org/national-rural-health-day to learn more about Rural Hospitals in America.

You're Not Alone: Supporting New Moms With the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

The many emotions pregnant and postpartum women experience can have a huge impact on their mental well-being, and if left untreated can have devastating consequences. In 2022, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, offering support and resources via call or text to pregnant women and new mothers. In this episode, Michael Warren, M.D., associate administrator of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau at HRSA, discusses how the hotline came to exist, and how it is helping combat the overwhelming stresses that new mothers can face. The hotline can be reached at 1-833-TLC-MAMA and the hotline also offers a Partner Toolkit for health care organization to raise awareness.

Visit AHA’s Maternal Mental Health webpage for more resources such as infographics and podcasts.

Dr. Michael Warren

Improving Maternity Care for Indigenous Populations

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

People of American Indian and Alaska Native descent, also known as Indigenous, are twice as likely to experience pregnancy-related deaths as white women. In this conversation, Tina Pattara-Lau, M.D., maternal and child health consultant with the Indian Health Service Office of Clinical and Preventive Services, and Johnna Nynas, M.D. obstetrics and gynecology specialist at Sanford Bemidji Medical Center, explore common disparities and systemic barriers Indigenous people experience in pregnancy and postpartum, and ways hospitals and health care organizations can combat these challenges to provide culturally-focused care. November is #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth.

The Must Do's for Welcoming a New CEO

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 21:30:00 -0400

For health care organizations, welcoming a new CEO can present uneasy change — but it also allows the opportunity to creatively address some of the field's biggest hurdles. In this conversation, learn how the leadership and board of directors at Northwestern Medical Center in Vermont started their CEO searches, and how the CEO transition plan helped accelerate their organization’s success and plans for the future. This podcast is sponsored by WittKieffer.

For for information please visit WittKieffer

2023 Circle of Life Honorees: Leading the Way in Palliative and End-of-Life Care

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 22:30:00 -0400

The American Hospital Association is proud to be a major sponsor of the 2023 Circle of Life Award, which honors health care organizations that are demonstrating innovative palliative or end-of-life care to impact the patients, families and communities they serve. In this conversation, Martha Twaddle, M.D., Waud family medical director for palliative medicine & supportive care at Northwestern Medicine, talks to this year’s three honorees about what drives them to overcome the barriers in palliative care, and their ability to build trust and relationships during extremely difficult times.

Apply for the 2024 Circle of Life Award - How do you know if your organization is ready to apply for a Circle of Life Award? An innovative palliative or end-of-life care provider that is measuring and evaluating the impact of its work on patients, family, and/or the community is ready to apply for a Circle of Life award. Honorees are emphasizing coordinated or integrated care delivery throughout all settings, engaging underserved populations, promoting palliative care in diverse populations using strategies for engaging communities, creating partnerships with other health care organizations and practitioners, and initiatives within long-term care facilities. Please contact circleoflife@aha.org with questions.

Leadership Dialogue Series: At the Intersection of Technology and Nursing With Advocate Health

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 11:00:12 -0400

As the nursing profession continues to evolve, it is embracing new technologies and practices that allow nurses to focus on what matters most — their patients. In this conversation, John Haupert, president and CEO of Grady Health System and 2023 AHA board chair, and Mary Beth Kingston, Ph.D., R.N., executive vice president and chief nursing officer at Advocate Health and AHA board member, discuss the future of technology and nursing in the health care environment and how technology can be implemented to improve not just patient care, but overall employee satisfaction.

Leading With Empathy: Workforce Well-Being at Ochsner Health

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 00:30:02 -0400

Addressing burnout and the mental health of employees is not only the right thing to do, but also improves care, quality, patient satisfaction and the financial health of the organization. In this conversation, Nigel Girgrah, M.D., chief wellness officer at Ochsner Health, discusses his evolution in workforce well-being, building a business case for organizational buy-in and the importance of combining leadership with mental health transparency.

Beyond Birth: The Social Needs of New Mothers With Ascension

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 02:30:02 -0400

American health care has come a long way over the years, but there is at least one glaring exception — maternal health. This three-part series explores the medical complications that can accompany pregnancy, successful prenatal and postpartum treatment programs, and how hospitals and health systems are addressing the social needs of new mothers. In this episode, Stacy Garrett-Ray, M.D., senior vice president and chief community impact officer at Ascension Health, and X’Laodai Mack, new mom and Ascension patient, discuss how the health system is addressing social determinants of health to support mothers and their babies.

Equity of Care Award Winner Monument Health: A Commitment to Inclusion

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 02:30:00 -0400

The AHA's Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award recognizes outstanding efforts among hospitals and health care systems to advance equity of care and reduce health disparities within their communities. 2023 Rural Winner, Monument Health, was honored for their journey in health equity progress that has spanned over 8 years. In this conversation, Paulette Davidson, president and CEO of Monument Health, and Sandra Ogunremi, DHA, vice president of diversity, inclusion and belonging at Monument Health, discuss how one incident made the rural health system vow to do better and commit to a strong path forward in health care equity.

Foster G. McGaw Prize Finalist GBMC HealthCare: Focusing on the Social Determinants of Health

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 02:30:00 -0400

The AHA’s prestigious Foster G. McGaw Prize honors health delivery organizations that have demonstrated a strategic approach to community health and addressing health disparities. Finalist GBMC HealthCare was one of the organizations honored in 2023 for leading the way. In this conversation, John Chessare, M.D., MPH, president and CEO of GBMC HealthCare, shares how they began investing in their Baltimore community by specifically focusing on social drivers of health.

Playing Cyber Defense in the Age of Digital Innovation

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 02:30:00 -0400

Digital innovation in artificial intelligence, machine learning and other spaces are becoming more present in health care. With these advancements also come threats from cybercriminals. Through June of 2023, 48 million individuals were impacted by 250 data breaches as reported to the HHS Office of Civil Rights, and about a quarter of them were high-impact ransomware attacks. In this conversation, Troy Ament, chief information security officer at Fortinet, discusses the conversations health care needs to be having to balance digital innovation with cybercrime defenses. Fortinet is an AHA Preferred Cybersecurity Provider.

Equity of Care Award Winner Meritus Health: Influencing Equity in the Community

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 02:30:00 -0400

The AHA's Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award recognizes outstanding efforts among hospitals and health care systems to advance equity of care and reduce health disparities within their communities. 2023 Transforming Winner, Meritus Health, was honored for creating and implementing strategies that influence equity within its community. In this conversation, Allen Twigg, Meritus Health's executive director of behavioral and community health services, talks about their role in the community and how they have expanded that role to reduce disparities for the population.

How UVA Health is Helping to Build a Nursing Workforce

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 02:30:08 -0400

Building and retaining a nursing workforce is one of the many challenges facing health care today. In this conversation, Wendy Horton, chief executive officer of UVA Health, and Beth Mehring, program manager of the “Earn While You Learn” program at UVA Health, discuss the successes of "Earn While You Learn" and how their approach to sustaining the nursing workforce can provide solutions for hospitals and health systems moving forward.

Equity of Care Award Winner Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital: Pathways to Health Equity

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 02:30:08 -0400

The AHA's Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award recognizes outstanding efforts among hospitals and health care systems to advance equity of care and reduce health disparities within their communities. 2023 Emerging Winner, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH), was honored for its passion and progress in advancing health equity. In this conversation, Franck Nelson, RWJUH assistant vice president of health equity, discusses the big steps the organization has taken to dismantle equity barriers in its care delivery system and the community it serves.

Integrating Behavioral and Physical Health to Treat the Whole Person

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 02:30:06 -0400

In the United States, behavioral health and physical health can sometimes be treated as if they are unconnected, usually involving separate sites of care. One small, rural health system decided to override the usual way of doing things and provide a care model that reconnects treatment to the whole person. In this podcast, Charlie Forbush, chief administrative officer at Western Wisconsin Health, describes their hospital's behavioral health expansion within the schools and community, and how it made a difference in patients’ access to whole-person care.

Hearing the Voices of Human Trafficking Victims

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:52:34 -0400

For health care professionals, victims of human trafficking aren’t easy to spot, and many victims are reluctant to share much about the horror they endured. Mercy Medical Center’s Blue Dot Human Trafficking Initiative flags potential victims of human trafficking for its team of 30 forensic nurses who serve the greater Baltimore region. In this conversation, Debra Holbrook, director of Forensic Nursing at Mercy Health Services, and David Maine, M.D., president and CEO at Mercy, explain the key successes of the Blue Dot initiative and how Mercy is making a huge impact in keeping its communities safe and secure.

For Our Kids: Pediatric Behavioral Health Needs With UMass Memorial

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 02:30:06 -0400

When kids experience acute behavioral health needs, they need to be cared for at the right time and the right place. In this conversation, Brian Skehan, M.D., Ph.D., director of Pediatric Emergency Mental Health Services at UMass Memorial, and Jemima Amankwah, nurse manager of Emergency Mental Health at UMass Memorial, discuss caring for these specific pediatric patients and how UMass is helping kids receive treatment that fits their needs.

Leadership Dialogue Series: The Dynamic Work of Boards With Saint Luke’s Health System

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 11:00:03 -0400

The many pressures squeezing health care providers have all served to make the role of hospital trustees, or governing board members, more important than ever. These boards have been charged with making sure that quality metrics are met and that strategic priorities guide the missions. In this conversation, John Haupert, president and CEO of Grady Health System and the 2023 Chair of AHA’s Board, and Greg Bentz, board chair of Saint Luke's Health and chair of AHA's Committee on Governance, discuss the thin margin of error that hospitals and health systems are facing, and how Saint Luke's is focusing on governance to help achieve the highest levels of excellence in providing health care.

How Technology Can Prepare the Health Care Workforce and Transform Care

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 03:00:13 -0400

The gap between supply and demand for health care continues to grow at an unprecedented rate. Reinventing and transforming the nature of care delivery is essential for hospitals and health systems to achieve quality patient outcomes. In this conversation, hear how Northwestern Medicine is using digital technology to better prepare teams to work in the new world of health care, and why a digital mindset is vital to care transformation. This podcast is sponsored by Accenture.

FBI Violence Prevention Strategies to Assess and Manage Threats Against Health Care

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 02:30:03 -0400

Since 2020 the health care workforce has faced a sharp increase in workplace violence. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has found that health care workers are five times more likely than any other type of worker to be physically attacked on the job. In this conversation, Karie Gibson, Psy.D., unit chief of one of the FBI’s five Behavioral Analysis Units, discusses the meaning of behavioral threat assessments and how it applies to the threat of violence against hospitals and health care teams.

Remembering the Highland Park Mass Shooting: Reflections and Lessons in Emergency Preparedness

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 02:00:08 -0400

The 2022 mass shooting during the Fourth of July parade in Highland Park, Illinois killed seven people, wounded another 48 and traumatized an entire community. In this emotional conversation, Gabrielle Cummings, president of NorthShore Highland Park Hospital, discusses how the hospital team responded head-on to an unfolding crisis and kept not only the Highland Park community together, but the health care staff as well.

Preventing Suicides in the Health Care Workforce: Steps to Supporting Every Worker

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 03:00:08 -0400

The AHA’s Suicide Prevention Learning Collaborative was created to start a dialogue among health care providers about the best ways to provide support for health care workers. In this conversation, Paul Rains, senior vice president of behavioral health at CommonSpirit Health, discusses ideas and shared best practices to ensure that every health care worker is cared for and supported across the organization. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

Lean-ing Toward Greater Efficiency in Daily Practice

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:00:28 -0400

Clare Fox, physical therapist with North Country HealthCare in New Hampshire, shares why she left her native England to pursue her health career dreams in the United States. She explains how adopting the team-focused managerial approach she learned from the Lean Six Sigma training courses makes all the difference in efficient health care.

Checking in on You: Addressing Loneliness With Care Callers

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 09:00:19 -0400

The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory on loneliness put a spotlight on the profound impact that social isolation is having on the physical and mental health of American communities. In this conversation, Maulik Joshi, Dr.P.H., president and CEO of Meritus Health, discusses their Care Callers program. The program enlists volunteers to call and check in on Meritus patients who report experiencing loneliness, with encouraging results.

Improving Maternal and Infant Services in Rural Iowa

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 11:00:26 -0400

Millions of women across the United States have no access to maternal health care, particularly in rural areas that lack obstetric services. In this episode, leaders from St. Anthony Regional Hospital in Carroll, Iowa, discuss their newly piloted "Center for Excellence" and the Center's success in bringing care to infants and mothers within their community and beyond.

A Capital Effort in the Fight Against the Opioid Epidemic

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:00:10 -0400

The majority of overdose deaths in the United States involve opioids. Already a huge problem pre-COVID-19, the pandemic has accelerated opioid misuse to levels never seen before in the U.S. In this conversation, a leader from the District of Columbia Hospital Association shares the multiple approaches they’re using to help curb the opioid epidemic and reach the communities most impacted.

A Whole of Nation Approach to Cybercrime: Secure by Design, Secure by Default

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 11:00:20 -0400

The federal government and private sector face common dangers from ever-escalating cyberattacks that continually test their readiness and capabilities. In this discussion, two experts from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and Atlantic Health System agree that what’s needed right now is an integrated “whole-of-nation” solution to handling today’s cyberthreats.

Vaccine Trust in Marginalized Communities With Children's National Hospital

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:00:10 -0400

Parents will do anything to keep their kids healthy, yet many children remain unvaccinated for COVID-19. In this conversation, Claire O'Connell Boogaard, M.D., Children’s National Hospital pediatrician and COVID-19 vaccine program medical director, discusses the hospital's efforts to build trust in the COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, especially in historically marginalized communities.

New Strategies in a Disruptive Era With Johns Hopkins and Guidehouse

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 10:00:40 -0400

In this post-pandemic era, health care leaders are finding new ways to strengthen performance through innovative approaches, while improving care, quality and patient safety. In this conversation hear how Johns Hopkins is using innovation to ensure long-term financial stability while managing day-to-day struggles. This podcast is brought to you by Guidehouse.

Building a Rural Nursing Workforce With Fisher-Titus Medical Center

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 02:29:59 -0400

Building a robust nursing workforce is hugely important in providing quality care to patients, but poses unique challenges in rural Ohio. In this conversation, Fisher-Titus’s Stacy Daniel, director of clinical programs, and Katie Chieda, chief nursing officer, share how their team concentrated on recruiting international nurses to ensure that they remained a strong, independent health system for years to come.

How St. Luke’s Confronted the Virus Triple Threat

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:59:59 -0400

With fall approaching, health officials across the country are once again bracing for a rise in respiratory illnesses, including the triple threat of COVID-19, flu and RSV. In this discussion, two St. Luke’s Health System experts describe how they pivoted to provide respiratory care during last year's surge, and how the rapid creation of Respiratory Outpatient Clinics across the state made a tremendous difference for their patients.

Working Towards Health Equity in the Rural Space

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 01:59:59 -0400

Health equity is a discussion that is often framed only around race, but it means so much more. In this discussion, two heads of rural health systems explain how they're working to reach underserved communities, and the steps they're taking to get to full equity.

Quest for Quality Honorees on Challenges and the Impact of Equity on Care

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 02:59:59 -0400

The AHA Quest for Quality Prize honors hospitals and health systems committed to leadership and innovation in improving quality and advancing health. In this podcast this year's three honorees talk about their achievements, reflect on the challenges they faced, and assess the real impact of equity on quality of care.

The Path to Follow When You Can't Go It Alone

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 02:00:06 -0400

Mergers, acquisitions and affiliations. Most health care leaders agree that the future, especially for rural providers, will involve more cooperation and partnerships. In this podcast, three leaders from rural health care systems agree that every community must find its own unique way to maximize its health care resources while maintaining the best possible care for patients.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Addressing Workforce With Leaders From Univ. of Alabama at Birmingham

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 11:00:06 -0400

2023 AHA Board Chair John Haupert talks with three health care leaders affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB): Terri Poe, chief nursing officer at UAB Medicine; Maria Rodriguez Shirey, dean of the UAB School of Nursing; and Shea Polancich, assistant dean for clinical innovation, UAB School of Nursing. Haupert and the UAB team discuss innovative ways to address workforce challenges in health care, and how strategic partnerships at UAB have increased the pipeline of local nurses while also improving quality outcomes for patients.

African American Leadership in Rural Hospitals

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 03:30:06 -0400

Ruby Kirby is a proud and accomplished member of a small club: African American women who are CEO’s of rural hospitals. The 2022 recipient of AHA’s Rural Hospital Leadership Team Award, Kirby is CEO of both Bolivar and Camden hospitals. In this podcast, she discusses what has worked in making progress in quality and equity in rural health and how her team is using data to drive action and mentoring younger African American women for future leadership positions.

Foster G. McGaw Prize Finalist Cedars-Sinai on Its Commitment to Community Health and Health Equity

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 02:30:06 -0400

The AHA’s prestigious Foster G. McGaw Prize honors health delivery organizations that have demonstrated a strategic approach to community health and health equity. Finalist Cedars-Sinai was one of the organizations honored in 2023 for leading the way. In this conversation, Jonathan Schreiber, Cedars-Sinai VP of community engagement, shares how they’re continually working to provide better care through impactful community programs.

Bridging the Gap Between Clinical Care and Community Population Health

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 11:00:36 -0400

Rural health care providers face challenges in caring for their communities while coping with finite resources. In this conversation, guest Kevin Barnett, senior investigator with the Public Health Institute and board member for Trinity Health, discusses what it will take for rural providers to bridge the gap between clinical care and community population health, while also improving health equity.

What is a CLABSI and How to Prevent It

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 11:00:14 -0400

In the health care field one of the scariest types of infections is called CLABSI, or Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection. In this episode, Nishant Prasad, M.D., attending physician and program director of infectious diseases at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, shares how they re-approached CLABSI prevention by deeply examining structure and process, and how their work got them to zero CLABSIs in the last year.

Prepping for the Future: Succession Planning in Health Care

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 13:00:10 -0400

Succession planning can feel like a luxury in health care, but its importance cannot be overstated. As hospitals continue to face workforce challenges, it is more critical than ever that they invest time and resources into developing and growing the next generation of leaders. Brian Juncker, managing partner of Strategic Talent Solutions, and Frank Venuto, Chief Human Capital Officer at Nebraska Medicine, join this discussion around succession planning and how to prep for future.

The Other Side of Rural Health Care

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 11:00:30 -0400

Squeezed budgets, lack of insurance, transportation and access issues, dwindling patient populations — all problems facing rural health care providers in America. Titus Regional Medical Center is one such rural health system, serving about 88,000 people as the last independent system still operating in northeast Texas. In this episode, Terry Scoggin, CEO of Titus Regional Medical Center, discusses how the team at Titus reaches its community needs through innovative data and unparalleled compassion.

Enhancing Care for Older Patients with Age-Friendly Health Systems

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:00:10 -0400

The population of adults ages 65 and older will exceed 95 million in the United States by the year 2060. As Americans age, hospitals and health systems need to adapt their models of care to address the unique needs of older adults. In this episode, Sonja Rosen, M.D., chief of geriatrics at Cedars-Sinai, shares updates on their journey as an Age-Friendly Health System, and discusses a multidisciplinary approach to providing quality care for older patients in the midst of a workforce shortage.

Fostering Trust in Pediatric Vaccinations with Gillette Children's

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 11:00:35 -0400

Fostering trust in both the COVID-19 vaccines and other necessary pediatric vaccinations is an essential part of Gillette Children's effort to protect families and their communities. In this episode, Micah Niermann, M.D. discusses how Gillette Children's is reaching their pediatric community and fighting vaccine misinformation.

Am I Protected?: Sharing Cyber Threat Information Between the Government and Private Sector

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 11:00:05 -0400

The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 was Congress’ fix to the confusing statutes that regulated the cyber threat information that could pass between the private sector and the federal government. Eight years later, many people still don’t know the law exists or what a valuable tool it can be. In this episode, guest Leonard Bailey, head of Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section’s Cybersecurity Unit with the Department of Justice, explores the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act and its benefits.

Convincing Your Community: MUSC Health's Drive to Vaccinate Against COVID-19

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:00:21 -0400

One of the biggest challenges communities faced during the COVID-19 pandemic wasn't just the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccines, but convincing people to take them. In this conversation, hear how MUSC Health in Charleston, South Carolina and the Charleston School district set the example by collaborating with community stakeholders in the school system and beyond to spread confidence in the COVID-19 vaccines.

Taking Care of You for Being You: The Path to Equitable LGBTQ+ Care

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:00:01 -0400

The LGBTQIA+ community often faces barriers to equitable health care. In this conversation, guest David W. Rosenthal, D.O. of Northwell Health discusses bias, the specific needs of LGBTQIA+ patients, education and training for health care workers, and the paths to creating competent and outstanding health care for all people.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Anchoring Community Benefits with UMass Memorial Health

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:00:11 -0400

There are many creative ways that hospitals and care providers support their communities beyond offering great medical care. In 2017 UMass Memorial Health chose to reimagine itself as an “anchor” hospital, taking on much more responsibility for the welfare of the communities it serves. Hear how in this conversation between John Haupert, president and CEO of Grady Health System and the 2023 Chair of AHA’s Board, and Doug Brown, president of UMass Memorial Community Hospitals and chief administrative officer for UMass Memorial Health

Creating a Support System for Black Women Leaders and CEOs

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 12:00:26 -0400

For Black women who are hospital and health system CEOs, it's been difficult to find and connect with others like themselves. In 2022, the AHA launched the Black Women CEO Roundtable to create a support system and facilitate meaningful connections. In this conversation, roundtable member Asha Rodriguez, vice president, facility executive with Atrium Health Cabarrus, reflects on how the roundtable’s support, encouragement and honest dialogue have helped her bond with her fellow CEOs.

Getting to Near Zero With Infection Prevention

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:00:16 -0400

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a big problem in health systems across the country. HAIs can be defeated, and Mount Sinai Beth Israel in New York City recently experienced great success in getting to the magic number of zero with three different HAIs. Today's guest, Dr. Waleed Javaid, MSBI epidemiologist and director of Infection Prevention and Control, shares tried and true strategies he and his team have implemented that can be adapted by other health care organizations.

The Role of Fathers in Maternal and Child Health

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 12:00:09 -0400

Men can have a significant influence in supporting women during their pregnancy, and can be essential allies in creating better outcomes for mother and child. Guests Dr. Amina Alio of University of Rochester Medical Center, and Jonathan Webb, CEO of the Association of Women's Health Obstetrics and Neonatal Nurses, explore the role of fathers in maternal and child health, and how addressing fathers’ needs can improve the overall well-being of a family.

The Benefits and Challenges of Converting to a Rural Emergency Hospital

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 11:59:59 -0400

The creation of the Rural Emergency Hospital designation on January 1, 2023 was intended to offer struggling rural hospitals a new financial lifeline. Converting to REH has its benefits, but also its challenges. Anson General Hospital CEO Ted Matthews and chief nursing officer Anna Doan speak about how this new designation has worked out so far, and what the local patient population thinks about the move.

Aligning Health Equity and Community Health Goals

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 11:00:09 -0400

Today marks the start of Community Health Improvement Week, a time to highlight hospitals and community organizations working together to enhance health. In this episode, the AHA’s Nancy Myers and Chris DeRienzo discuss where community health and equity goals are headed, and what are the driving forces behind the movement to align them.

How Community Investment Saved a Rural Health System

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 11:00:09 -0400

Serving a small rural community in upper Michigan, Mackinac Straits Health System was once in dire financial straits, operating on only a few days of cash reserves. Karen Cheeseman, Mackinac Straits president and CEO, explains how the health system turned things around thanks to strategic planning and critical investments from community partners.

Strengthening Risk Communications in Rural Health Care Emergency Management

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 12:00:14 -0400

Communicating information is critical during emergencies and disasters. Phelps Health shares proven strategies for successful risk communication in times of crisis, which can be adopted by other health care organizations.

Environmental Sustainability in the World of Health Care

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:00:14 -0400

There is growing awareness in the health care field that becoming a better steward of the environment is something well within the capabilities of most health caregivers. In fact, it benefits the overall mission in ways we often don’t think about. One environmental officer whose health care organization has been paying close attention to environmental sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint since the 1990s frames it this way: “It’s part of our work, not additional work.”

Protecting Heath Care Workers from Being Targets of Violence

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 12:00:24 -0400

A survey of 1,000 caregivers in April of 2022 found that 92 percent had directly experienced or witnessed workplace violence. The problem has been growing exponentially for years, and prompted the AHA to create #HAVhope Day, a national day of awareness to highlight how America’s hospitals and health systems combat violence in their workplaces and communities. Hear some of the ways health care leaders are tackling the problem of workplace aggression and the potential solutions.

Innovative Workforce Strategies to Lead Your Organization Forward

Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:18 -0400

America’s health care workers are the backbone of hospitals and health systems to provide strong patient care. Hear recommendations for the bold and innovative approaches that are needed to support current staff, and recruit the health care workers of tomorrow. This podcast is sponsored by Relias.

Recruiting the Next Generation of Behavioral Health Professionals

Fri, 26 May 2023 12:00:28 -0400

The shortage of behavioral health care professionals is a serious public health issue, particularly in rural areas. In rural Iowa, some care providers have found successful new pathways to recruit, train and retain behavioral health specialists.

Finding the Right Words: The Role of Peer Support with Mental Health

Wed, 24 May 2023 12:00:18 -0400

For health care workers, finding the right words to support a colleague struggling with their mental health or thoughts of suicide can be challenging. According to Luci New, assistant professor of Nurse Anesthesia at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, the best thing you can say to a struggling colleague is simple: “I care about you.”

Leadership Dialogue Series: Addressing the Behavioral Health Crisis with John Muir Health

Mon, 22 May 2023 12:00:28 -0400

Hospitals and health systems are playing an increasingly important role in providing behavioral health care, whether in their own facilities or by helping patients connect with community resources. It’s a positive trend. But the need for behavioral health services is great, and the gap between needs and resources remains wide.

Addressing Food Insecurity in Rural Tennessee

Fri, 19 May 2023 12:00:38 -0400

When a community health needs assessment was conducted in Hardeman County, Tennessee, it confirmed that not only was obesity a serious health threat for adults and children, but accessing food at all was a problem for many county residents. Fortunately, their local hospitals decided to address food insecurity in the county and take action.

“Period Poverty”: A Crisis for American Girls

Wed, 17 May 2023 12:00:28 -0400

Across America, many girls lack access to menstrual products, facing a public health crisis known as “period poverty.” Without these products, girls can miss school, be humiliated and experience health problems. One health system is addressing the problem in its community and looking to help.

Unsustainable Costs of Caring

Fri, 12 May 2023 12:00:20 -0400

America’s hospitals and health systems are facing a tidal wave of financial challenges, with finances stretched to their breaking point by three years of pandemic and now post-pandemic strain. In this episode, we discuss the AHA’s recently released 2023 Costs of Caring Report, which documents the skyrocketing growth in expenses, especially the cost of labor.

Increasing Support for Health Care Workers' Mental Health and Well-being

Wed, 10 May 2023 12:00:10 -0400

Health care workers are stressed out, stretched out, burned out and leaving the profession in truly alarming numbers. It doesn’t have to be this way and there are opportunities to make workplaces engines of mental health and well-being. Three experts make the case that the physical and mental well-being of our workforce is best for patients, makes good business sense, and is actually a precondition for delivering top notch medical care.

Retaining A Rural Nursing Workforce: It Takes A Village

Fri, 05 May 2023 12:00:30 -0400

Attracting and retaining nurses presents a major workforce challenge, particularly in rural health care settings. At the University of Vermont Health Network, leaders realized that the ongoing nursing shortage crisis required creative solutions, including investment in the well-being of the nursing staff.

The Growing Role of Emergency Departments in Behavioral Health Services

Wed, 03 May 2023 12:00:27 -0400

The past five years have seen a rise in the number of people turning to their local hospital emergency departments for behavioral health and addiction services. To meet the growing need, some hospitals and health systems are creatively addressing this challenge and expanding their ED offerings. The results are already making a big difference in communities.

Innovating Virus Care for Pediatric Patients

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 12:00:17 -0400

Hospitals across the country have found innovative ways to increase their capacity, improve care and take care of health care workers while treating COVID-19 patients throughout this pandemic. Jerrod Milton, chief clinical officer and senior vice president of Professional Services at Children’s Hospital Colorado, stops by the podcast to talk about COVID-19’s impact on pediatric health care and share lessons and innovations in managing the confluence of this unprecedented virus, along with RSV and the flu.

The CY24 Medicare Advantage Final Rule: Key Updates and Changes

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 16:37:21 -0400

Medicare Advantage or MA Plans are another way for beneficiaries to get Medicare Part A and Part B coverage delivered through private health insurance companies. In this podcast, listen to Medicare Advantage updates and some of the changes that are on the way in the CMS final rule next year. This podcast was recorded at the 2023 Annual Meeting in Washington D.C.

How One Hospital is Navigating Rising Inflation and Workforce Pressures

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 23:00:16 -0400

The financial stability of America's hospitals and health systems is at risk as the costs of caring continue to rise. According to a recent AHA report, the cost of drugs, supplies and labor has skyrocketed over the past few years, and that's been met with continued underpayments from government payers. In this podcast, the AHA's Bharath Krishnamurthy, director of Health Analytics and Policy, explores what this imbalance means for patient care with Dr. Anthony Coleman, President and Chief executive officer of Broadlawns Medical Center in Iowa. This podcast was recorded at the 2023 American Hospital Association's annual membership meeting in Washington, D.C.

A CEO's Perspective: Key Learnings to Strengthen Cybersecurity

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 23:00:26 -0400

Despite the resources thrown at them and the defensive walls in place, cyber attacks directed against hospital and health systems remain a very potent and active threat. When one incursion is shut down, it doesn't take long for cybercriminals to try another method of attack. In this podcast, hear what one prominent health system CEO learned and what he wants all health leaders to understand about cybersecurity. This podcast was recorded live at the 2023 AHA Annual Meeting.

Big Changes With the New Rural Emergency Hospital Model

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 12:00:16 -0400

For critical access hospitals and rural hospitals with 50 beds or fewer, an attractive new option became available on January 1st of this year. That was the opportunity to seek designation as a new rural emergency hospital, which expands the conditions under which hospitals can seek payment from Medicare.

Codes of Conduct – An Approach to Reducing Workplace Violence

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 12:00:16 -0400

Last year, Massachusetts health care workers faced a threat, verbal abuse or a physical assault every 38 minutes on average. A report on the situation summarized it with one word: untenable. The report also recommended a new patient and visitor Code of Conduct to help promote a safe and respectful environment. Today’s episode features three Bay State health care leaders who endorse the idea. For more information on The Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association and AHA's Hospitals Against Violence resources please visit https://www.mhalink.org/ and www.aha.org/HAV.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Accelerating Health Equity with CHRISTUS Health

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:00:16 -0400

Is there real health care quality without equity? How do we preserve the dignity of every human being who comes through our doors? In 2023, these questions are top of mind for just about every hospital and health system leader and their team to consider. CHRISTUS Health has been very active in their its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and DEI has been hardwired into its mission and strategic goals.

Doulas: A Strategy to Address Maternal and Infant Health

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 12:00:16 -0400

The U.S. faces a growing health crisis, with maternal health falling alarmingly behind many other developed nations. The solution isn’t simple, but some hospitals are recognizing the impactful role of doulas programs in maternity care. Hear how doulas provide women with physical and emotional support, and make a difference in addressing maternal and infant health disparities.

Advocating for Rural Health Providers

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 12:00:26 -0400

For rural health care providers, 2022 ended on an up note, when AHA was able to secure some important policy wins in the final omnibus appropriations package to fund the government. This year brings a new set of challenges, goals and opportunities. In this episode, three AHA rural health care policy experts discuss the 2023 rural advocacy agenda for Congress and the Administration.

Delivering Health Care and Hope to Ukraine

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 12:00:17 -0400

For more than a year, we’ve seen heartbreaking images from the war in Ukraine. The war’s damage has severely limited the ability of Ukrainian health care workers to provide critical aid to their fellow citizens. Hear how one Illinois health care worker has launched a humanitarian effort to deliver much-needed ambulances and medical supplies to the people of Ukraine.

Closing the Immunity Gap with Advocate Children's Hospital

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 12:00:18 -0400

Some experts have suggested that RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) was more severe last year because of an immunity gap from several years of social distancing and COVID-19 precautions. They also suggest that COVID-19 is to blame for the early arrival and more devastating effects of RSV and the flu. Listen to how Advocate Children's Hospital is working towards managing this alarming new gap and how they have persevered through the triple threat of COVID-19, RSV and the flu. To learn more about vaccine confidence please visit www.aha.org/vaccineconfidence

Leadership Dialogue Series: Creating a Culture of Innovation with Hackensack Meridian Health

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 11:00:18 -0400

AHA Board Chair John Haupert is joined by Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health, based in New Jersey. In this conversation, Haupert and Garrett discuss the important role of hospitals and health systems in leading medical research and innovation to transform health care and make patient care better, accessible and more efficient.

Hacking the Hackers: The FBI’s Takedown of the Hive Ransomware Gang

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 12:00:18 -0400

The FBI is the lead agency tasked with investigating cybercrime, including defending hospitals and health systems from frequent cyberattacks. Hear the dramatic story of their recent takedown of the Hive ransomware gang, whose criminal enterprise threatened patient safety.

Strategies for Building Powerful Community Partnerships

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 12:00:20 -0400

Clinicians, social service providers and community members make up the health care triangle: strong, connective links between the three create the kind of impactful partnerships that drive progress and advance health. But confronted with finite resources, how can frontline leaders know which tactics and partnerships will bring the best results and lead to the outcome we all seek – healthy, equitable communities where everyone reaches their highest potential for health? The new Integrators Toolkit provides some guidance. For more information on Nemours initiative please visit https://www.movinghealthcareupstream.org/population-health-integrators/ For more information on AHA's Bridging the Sectors resources please visit https://www.aha.org/center/population-health-management/bridging-the-sectors

Long COVID: Preparing for the Next Major Chronic Illness

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 13:00:18 -0400

Long COVID — with symptoms ranging from fatigue and dizziness to shortness of breath and loss of smell — is disabling millions of Americans. And health care leaders across the country are recognizing the need for a coordinated response to stem the impact of what is essentially our newest chronic illness.

Advancing Women’s Health through an Equity Lens

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 13:00:10 -0400

For Women’s History Month, we turn the spotlight to a female-led venture capital firm that is out to change women’s lives for the better. SteelSky Ventures invests in innovative companies that work to improve health outcomes for women by focusing on improving health care access, quality and affordability.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Strengthening Rural Health Care with Jennifer Havens

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:00:10 -0400

With the distinct challenges facing rural hospitals and health systems, access to critical services — like maternal health care and emergency medical services — is at risk. In this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, John Haupert, president and CEO of Atlanta-based Grady Health System and the 2023 Chair of AHA’s Board, is joined by Jennifer Havens, CEO of UnityPoint Health – Grinnell Regional Medical Center, a 49-bed hospital serving several counties in Iowa. The two health care leaders discuss how GRMC has “tried to turn lemons into lemonade” to address challenges and improve care delivery. Havens also discusses the benefits of the hospital’s affiliation with UnityPoint Health, including increasing health care access in the community.

Increasing Representation of Black Men in Medicine

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 13:00:17 -0400

America is already running short on physicians, and every health labor forecast projects it will only get worse in the next decade or so. Even more alarming the percentage of Black male physicians in the field has been basically unchanged for the past 80 years and isn’t showing signs of growth even now. It’s more important than ever to ask what can be done to attract, recruit and train more talented young Black men to the practice of medicine? And what implications would that have on the goal of health equity and a diverse workforce?

Developing the Next Generation of Health Care Leaders

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 13:00:25 -0400

The just-concluded NFL season saw the retirement of one legendary quarterback and the rise of another ready to take his place. Just as athletic leaders change places, so too do health care leaders make way for the next generation. In this episode, we learn more about the AHA Next Generation Leaders Fellowship. Sponsored by Accenture, the year-long program focuses on mentoring promising leaders for the future, and training the kind of rising young stars who can help to bring about real and lasting change in the hospitals and health systems in which they serve.

Going "Code Dark": An Emergency Response to Cyberattacks

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 13:00:25 -0400

In most hospitals, highly-trained staff members know just what to do in the case of an emergency, whether it is a fire, hurricane, or even an active shooter. But what happens when that emergency comes in the form of a dangerous cyberattack? Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., has developed a system-wide “off” switch that staff can activate if it is clear that the hospital has come under a broad-based ransomware or malware attack.

Addressing Urgent Challenges in Behavioral Health While Thinking Long Term

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 13:00:10 -0400

Hospitals and health systems continue to face serious economic challenges relating to escalating expenses and staffing shortages. One health system met the challenge head on. Mary Marran of Care New England explains how they kept their focus on short-term economic recovery plans, while addressing an urgent long-term need — improving access to behavioral health care.

Leadership Dialogue Series: 2023 AHA Board Chair John Haupert

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:00:18 -0400

On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, two chairs of the American Hospital Association’s Board of Trustees come together to share their insights on the state of health care in our country, and what hospitals and health systems can look forward to in 2023. John Haupert, president and CEO of Atlanta-based Grady Health System and the 2023 chair of AHA’s board, is joined by the leader he just succeeded — AHA’s Immediate Past Board Chair, Wright Lassiter III, CEO of CommonSpirit Health. It would be hard to find two health care CEOs more in touch with what’s happening in the field right now. Join John and Wright as they explore key issues, including workforce, virtual care and partnerships.

Developing a Universal and Secure Electronic Health Information System

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 13:00:28 -0400

For years, hospitals and health systems have shared the goal of developing an interoperable health care information system that shares data across providers. The advantages are significant: faster, more accurate transfer of patient records that can result in more effective treatment. Less of an administrative burden for doctors, nurses and other caregivers. Overall, a smoother system that better serves everyone’s needs. But here’s a key question: how does such a system deliver sensitive information to those who have a need for it … and keep it out of the hands of those that don’t? In January 2021, Micky Tripathi assumed the job of National Coordinator for Health Information Technology at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There, he leads the formulation of the federal health IT strategy and coordinates federal health IT policies, standards, programs, and investments. In this podcast with the AHA’s Nancy Foster, Tripathi talks about what his office is doing to help care providers achieve the health information sharing system they want and deserve.

Confronting Behavioral Health Challenges with Avera Health

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 13:41:35 -0400

Since the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic in March 2020, our nation’s hospitals have paid a significant financial toll … and psychiatric hospitals are no exception.  Inpatient psychiatric admissions declined heavily throughout the pandemic. And while health professional shortages have long impeded behavioral health care access, the recent and forthcoming retirements of more than half of the current workforce, due in part to the COVID pandemic, only adds to provider challenges. In this podcast, Jordan Steiger, senior program manager, Behavioral Health, Clinical Affairs and Workforce at the AHA, speaks with Matthew Stanley, clinical vice president, Behavioral Health Service Line, with Avera Health, Sioux Falls, SD Like many hospitals and health systems, Avera Health continues to face significant challenges as expenses continue to escalate, patient boarding in emergency departments grows, and staffing shortages, often addressed by hiring expensive travel nurses as a solution, combine to create unsustainable budget pressures. Undeterred, Dr. Stanley and his team have accelerated their work to improve access to behavioral health care in the face of these daunting obstacles.

Caring for Family Caregivers Part 4: The Future of Family Caregiving

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 13:00:21 -0400

In part 4 of this podcast series, Nancy Myers, vice president of leadership system innovation at the American Hospital Association, is joined by clinical services director Lynette Harvey of the Camarillo Health Care District and high risk program manager Maureen Hodge of Community Memorial Health System, both in Ventura County, California. The discussion: understanding the role of hospital and community partnerships to innovate programs and models that provide family caregivers with greater support today and in the future.

Caring for Family Caregivers Part 3: Navigating Caregiving Relationships

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 13:00:11 -0400

Family caregivers are not just for pediatric and geriatric patients anymore. Family members are caring for patients of all ages and with a wide range of health care needs – from primary care to tertiary advanced care. In today’s episode, Nancy Myers, vice president of leadership system innovation at the American Hospital Association, is joined by gerontologist Dr. Maziar Goshtasbi and high risk program manager Maureen Hodge, both from Community Memorial Health System in Ventura, California. They discuss the growing rate of patients who rely on family caregivers, and why health care providers need hospital, family and community involvement in patient care and caregiver support.

How Hackensack Meridian Health’s Lab Helped Accelerate Their Value-based Care Journey

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 13:00:11 -0400

Today’s podcast is brought to you by Quest Diagnostics. Value-based health care is truly a game changer — a model that pays care providers based on patient outcomes, not on the amount of services delivered. It is the wave of the future, the direction that nearly all hospitals and health systems are moving toward towards regardless of size or services provided. Every hospital function has a role to play in achieving value-based care, including one that patients have little direct contact with: the laboratory. Hospitals labs perform lots of different tests and diagnostics on behalf of patients. And they’re really good at it. But like most functions, if you look long and hard enough at it, you’ll identify ways to improve. Join us to hear insights from Hackensack Meridian Health on how they were able to accelerate their value-based care journey by taking advantage of three unique ways that the laboratory can help define better clinical pathways, minimize care variation across various diagnosis codes and realize savings.

From Quiet Quitting to Sustainable Well-Being

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 13:00:17 -0400

Burnout is not new, but the COVID-19 pandemic has helped fuel this workplace phenomenon. As teams banded together over the last two-plus years to support each other and the communities they serve, many of the boundaries and expectations around work and life shifted. The societal impact of the pandemic has redefined expectations for work - and life - and brought us terms like the great resignation and quiet quitting. As we emerge from the acute phase of the pandemic, understanding how we can build sustainable, meaningful careers will be the difference. In this episode, Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Dr. Gaurava Agarwal, Chief Wellness executive for Northwestern Medicine, to talk about how he is building organizational well-being through sustainability.

Best of Advancing Health: Hospitals at Home with UnityPoint Health

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 13:00:27 -0400

Thanks for listening to the Advancing Health podcast! We hope you have found it useful and informative! As we wind up 2022 we wanted to re-release two of our most popular episodes from the last year. Advancing Health returns with new episodes in 2023. Until then we hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year!

Best of Advancing Health: Lessons Learned from Ransomware Attack with UVM Health

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 13:00:17 -0400

Happy holidays and thanks for listening to the Advancing Health podcast. We hope you have found it useful and informative! As we wind up 2022 we wanted to re-release two of our most popular episodes from the last year. Advancing Health returns with new episodes in 2023. Until then we hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year!

#JustLead featuring Novant Health

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 13:00:02 -0400

Welcome to final episode of the American Hospital Association's special podcast series #JustLead, a look at how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA awards for innovation collaboration and health equity, are transforming healthcare to better serve their communities. Over the past few years the concept of equity in health care has increasingly been moving from words in an online mission statement into real steps and concrete actions taken by health care providers all across the country. The American Hospital Association's annual Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care award was established to recognize and salute outstanding efforts among hospitals systems to advance equity of care. In this podcast, Ashleigh Hargrave, Senior Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity at Novant Health in Winston Salem, North Carolina, sits down to discuss Novant Health's drive for health equity and its achievements.

Caring for Family Caregivers Part 2: Gaining Perspective and Supporting the Family Caregiver

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 13:00:27 -0400

The caregiver experience is one that’s deeply personal and unique. Understanding how to support caregivers means hearing their stories, and better understanding their needs and challenges, so that collaboratively-developed programs at the community level can support them. Nancy Myers, vice president of leadership system innovation at the American Hospital Association, leads this second episode of a four-part series of discussions on hospital and community partnerships that support family caregivers. In this episode, Nancy hears the personal story of caregiver Dale Harmon of Ventura, California, and talks to Janice Aharon-Ezer, clinical program manager at Ventura’s Community Memorial Health System, to understand how CMHS’s caregiver navigator program collaboratively supports Dale and others.

Caring for Family Caregivers Part 1: Understanding the Role of the Caregiver

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 13:00:17 -0400

Caregiving for a family member or friend affected by a chronic or long-term health condition is an important public health issue affecting millions of people. As the need for family caregivers grows, it’s critical to understand and respond to the physical and mental health burdens they face. In this special Hospital-Community Partnership podcast series, Nancy Myers, vice president of leadership system innovation at the American Hospital Association, leads a four-part series of discussions on hospital and community partnerships to support family caregivers. In this episode, Nancy is joined by Maureen Hodge, high risk program manager, and Janice Aharon-Ezer, clinical program manager, both from Community Memorial Health System in Ventura, California. The discussion: defining the role of family caregiver, understanding caregiver needs and offering help.

Reducing cyber risks that threaten patient safety and care delivery with CENSINET

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 13:00:14 -0400

“We want to make sure that every provider has the ability to protect itself and its patients, and not have to worry about budgets or funding to do the right thing.” Those words from a leading health care cybersecurity expert are music to the ears of hospital and health system leaders whose systems have been the target of criminal cybersecurity intrusions … both attempted and successful. So, how can providers achieve this higher level of safety from cyber-attacks? In this episode we are joined by Ed Gaudet, founder of Censinet, one of the AHA’s carefully vetted Preferred Cybersecurity Providers. Gaudet is an expert of many years in the field. In addition to leading his company, he is active on a government task force establish by “The Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015” whose mission is to improve cybersecurity in health care. Along the way, Ed crossed paths with John Riggi, AHA’s National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk. In this podcast, John and Ed discuss how Censinet’s approach to cyber security can help members - regardless of size or budget - to reduce the cyber risks that threaten patient safety and care delivery.

#JustLead featuring Jefferson Health

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 13:00:14 -0400

Welcome to the American Hospital Association special podcast series. #JustLead, a look at how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with awards for innovation, collaboration and health equity are transforming health care to better serve their communities. Today we are joined by an honoree of the AHA 2022 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Award, Jefferson Health in Philadelphia. Here to share their story with us is Dr. Sandra Brooks, executive vice president, chief community health officer and chief medical officer for the Center City Division at Jefferson Health. Carolyn Boone Lewis was a tireless advocate for equity in health care. She was also the first African-American and first hospital trustee to serve as board chair of the American Hospital Association. The ACA acknowledges her lasting contributions with the Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care award presented annually to recognize the outstanding efforts among hospitals and health care systems to advance equity of care to all patients and spread lessons learned and progress towards diversity, inclusion and health equity.

[SPONSORED] Learnings from Palomar Health’s "Acute Hospital Care at Home" Initiative

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 13:00:23 -0400

Ask a hospital patient to name their #1 wish, and most will say: “I wish I were home right now.” These days, as an increasing number of hospitals and health systems rethink their care delivery models, that wish is starting to come true. Many care providers these days are considering an acute hospital-at-home approach as one of the safest and one of the most effective care options for certain patients and conditions. As a result, the hospital-at-home care model is emerging as a promising and transformative approach to improve patient outcomes and experience. Join us to hear how Palomar Health’s transformational “Acute Hospital Care at Home Initiative” is delivering great care to select patients in the environment they like best: their own homes. Palomar’s clinical operations redesign was ready in just six months, and has already been granted waiver approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Today’s podcast is brought to you by Guidehouse.

Improving Older Adult Care in the Geriatric Emergency Department

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 13:00:33 -0400

The nation’s population of older adults is increasing, but the system of emergency medicine isn’t optimally designed for their specific, complex and multi-layered needs. So what can the field do to better adapt to an aging population? Medical support frameworks for older adults remain inadequate, particularly in the emergency department. In today’s discussion about older adult care in the ED, Marie Cleary-Fishman, AHA’s vice president of clinical quality, is joined by Dr. Kevin Biese. Dr. Biese serves as the University of North Carolina Hospitals Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, as well as its Co-Director of the Division of Geriatric Emergency Medicine.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Discussing How Health Systems Benefit Communities with Eugene Woods

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 13:00:03 -0400

As the health care field continues to undergo significant change in its business and care models, it’s clear there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to facing the future. Communities of different sizes have different needs. Scale is important, and that’s where health systems have much to offer. On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Eugene Woods, president and CEO of Atrium Health, based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Gene is also a former chair of the AHA Board of Trustees. Wright and Gene talk about the role of health systems within the U.S. health care system today, and how the scale they offer can benefit communities and foster innovation. And in this time of significant financial and workforce challenges facing hospitals and health systems, the two health care leaders discuss the impact of these challenges and how Atrium Health is addressing them. Gene also shares examples of how Atrium Health teams continue to explore innovation and partnerships across different sectors.

#JustLead featuring Broward Health

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 13:00:19 -0400

Everyday hospitals and health systems are doing some of the most innovative work in America, finding new ways and new partners to collaborate with to advance the health of their communities. Today on the podcast, Dr. Ana Calderon Randazzo, executive director of the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center at Broward Health, based in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida chats with the AHA about the Center's Continous Care program and how it's making a difference. The Center’s Continuous Care Program was among five programs honored by this year’s NOVA Award. Welcome to the American Hospital Association’s new podcast series #JustLead, a series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity, are transforming health care for their communities,

Behavioral Health Success Part 2: Using a Historic Waiver to Expand CAH Psychiatric Beds

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 13:00:19 -0400

Rural America is in crisis. A spike in suicides and deaths by substance abuse has strained communities already struggling with a lack of clinical and inpatient resources. But there is hope. In part two of this special podcast series, John Supplitt, senior director of Rural Health Services, AHA and Jordan Steiger, senior program manager, AHA clinical affairs and workforce, are joined by Stephanie Greer, president of Cannon Memorial Hospital, an Appalachian regional behavioral health hospital and critical access hospital in Newland, North Carolina. Listen to how Cannon Memorial succeeded in obtaining an unprecedented Medicare waiver that allowed it to expand the inpatient capacity for psychiatric services in the community.

#JustLead featuring Cheshire Medical Center

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 13:00:02 -0400

Welcome to the American Hospital Association’s new podcast series #JustLead, a series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity, are transforming health care for their communities. One of the five programs recognized with a 2022 AHA Dick Davidson NOVA Award is The Doorway at Cheshire Medical Center, in Keene New Hampshire. The Doorway specializes in substance use disorder, finding new ways to reach out to and treat that vulnerable population. Nelson Hayden leads the program; and Laurie Butz-MeyerRose is a clinician at Doorway. The annual AHA Dick Davidson NOVA awards recognize the stars of this effort. The awards salute those programs that are helping to address many of our nation’s most pressing health challenges while creating healthier communities and increasing well-being for their neighbors. By the way, the deadline for applications for the 2023 NOVA Award is November 16th. You can learn more at www.aha.org/nova.

Behavioral Health Success Part 1: Combating a Suicide Surge Through Rural Community Collaboration

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 13:00:12 -0400

Rural America is in crisis. A spike in suicides and deaths by substance abuse has strained communities already struggling with a lack of clinical and inpatient resources. But there is hope. Led by their local health systems, two rural communities in Colorado and North Carolina have rallied to meet the challenge — and they’re changing the fortunes of those that live and work there. In this two-part series, we learn how these communities are developing new and innovative solutions to build capacity for behavioral health services. In today’s part one podcast, John Supplitt, senior director of Rural Health Services, AHA, and Jordan Steiger, senior program manager, AHA clinical affairs and workforce, start the discussion with some alarming statistics about the prevalence of mental health issues — including thoughts of suicide in many rural communities. Then Will Cook, President and CEO of Vail Health in Colorado, joins the podcast, to discuss solving the “paradise paradox” and stemming the surge of suicides in Eagle River Valley, Colorado.

[Special Edition] Midterm Election Results: The Potential Impact on Hospitals and Health Care

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 02:00:12 -0400

Millions of people across the country cast their ballots in the 2022 mid-term elections. While some votes are still being counted and certain races remain too close to call on the day after Election Day. On today’s podcast, Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, AHA's senior vice president of federal relations, advocacy and political affairs, leads a discussion with two veteran political consultants – Dave Bockorny, Executive Chairman and CEO of the Bockorny Group, and Dave Leiter, President of Plurus Strategies. They examine key results of the House and Senate races (1:08), thoughts on the future 2024 election (16:57), and the mid-term election's impact on health care in America (24:14).

#JustLead featuring Children's Minnesota

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:00:05 -0400

Welcome to the American Hospital Association’s new podcast series #JustLead, a series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity, are transforming health care for their communities, AHA’s 2022 NOVA Awards recognized five programs, among them “Community Connect,” from Children’s Minnesota in Minneapolis/St. Paul. In a nutshell, the program uses well-child visits at primary care clinics to identify unmet health-related social needs. In this podcast, Community Connect’s manager joins AHA’s senior associate director for media relations to discuss the successful results. The annual AHA Dick Davidson NOVA awards recognize the stars of this effort. The awards salute those programs that are helping to address many of our nation’s most pressing health challenges while creating healthier communities and increasing well-being for their neighbors. By the way, the deadline for applications for the 2023 NOVA Award is November 16th. You can learn more at www.aha.org/nova.

#JustLead featuring Spectrum Health

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 12:00:15 -0400

The School Blue Envelope Suicide Prevention Program – a creation of Spectrum Health in Grand Rapids, Mich. – is among the five programs recognized with a 2022 NOVA Award. The program lays out specific steps school administrators can take if they learn that a student has thoughts of suicide. In this podcast, two Spectrum Health experts join AHA’s senior associate director for media relations to discuss the difference their approach has made. Welcome to the American Hospital Association’s new podcast series #JustLead, a series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity, are transforming health care for their communities. The annual AHA Dick Davidson NOVA awards recognize the stars of this effort. The awards salute those programs that are helping to address many of our nation’s most pressing health challenges while creating healthier communities and increasing well-being for their neighbors. The deadline for applications for the 2023 NOVA Award is November 16th. You can learn more at www.aha.org/nova.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Health Care and Climate Change with Joanne Conroy, M.D.

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 12:00:15 -0400

In the midst of all the change surrounding the health care field right now, the impact of climate change has sometimes been overlooked. But for Dartmouth Health in New Hampshire, that is starting to what else? … change. The health care field is increasingly aware of the impact of climate change. More and more, organizations are thinking about how to address environmental sustainability. On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Joanne M. Conroy, CEO and president of Dartmouth Health in Hanover, New Hampshire. Conroy also is the Chair-elect Designate of the AHA Board of Trustees and will succeed Lassiter in that job next year. The two health care leaders discuss the creation of a group, the Alliance for Health and Climate Change, which is focused on identifying big and small changes to decrease the Dartmouth’s carbon footprint. Conroy tells Wright that her employees have lots of good ideas, such as covering all parking areas with solar panels, and Dartmouth Health is open to trying as many of them as it can.

#JustLead featuring Salinas Valley Memorial Health and Montage Health

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 12:00:27 -0400

Every day, hospitals and health systems are doing some of the most innovative work in America, finding new ways and new partners to collaborate with to advance the health of their communities. Each is turning to a different approach for patient care. Welcome to the American Hospital Association's new podcast series, Just Lead, a series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with awards for innovation, collaboration and health equity are transforming health care for their communities. The annual AHA Dick Davidson Nova Awards recognize the stars of this effort. The awards salute those programs that are helping to address many of our nation's most pressing health challenges while creating healthier communities and increasing well-being for their neighbors. The deadline for applications for the 2023 NOVA Awards is November 16th. You can learn more at www.aha.org/nova. One of the five programs recognized with the 2022 Nova Award is California's Monterey County Diabetes Collaborative. A joint venture from the Salinas Valley Memorial Health Care System and Montage Health. With me today are Dr. Steven Packer, president and CEO of Montage Health in Monterey, California and Pete Delgado, president and CEO of Salinas Valley Memorial Health Care System.

Rural Hospitals in Peril

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 12:00:27 -0400

Some 63 million rural residents across the U.S. depend on their area hospital as their primary – and often only – source of accessible medical care. Yet a variety of factors have caused the closure of 136 rural hospitals from 2010 to 2021, with a record 19 closures in 2020 alone. Most reasons are economic. They include low reimbursement rates, staffing shortages, low patient volume and regulatory barriers, as well as the continued financial challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. More recently, expenses for labor, drugs, supplies and equipment have skyrocketed. In this podcast Jeff Subler, president and CEO of Wayne HealthCare in Greenville, Ohio, discusses the unique challenges facing rural communities and rural hospitals, the impact closures have on the communities they serve, and the role Congress must play in extending programs such as Low-volume Adjustments that support rural hospitals.

Addressing the Burden of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 12:00:17 -0400

In this episode, Shanna Cox, associate director for science in CDC’s Division of Reproductive Health, and Aisha Syeda, senior program manager for AHA’s strategic initiatives, discuss the reasons behind the increase in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, its health outcomes, and what hospitals can do to identify and prevent associated complications. Additionally, Cox shares strategies and resources hospitals can use to guide this work with equity in mind, including assets from the CDC’s Hear Her campaign.

#JustLead featuring NorthShore University HealthSystem

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 12:00:16 -0400

#JustLead featuring NorthShore University HealthSystem by American Hospital Association

#JustLead featuring Ochsner Medical Center

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:00:16 -0400

#JustLead is a new AHA’s podcast series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity are transforming health care for their communities. Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans was a 2022 finalist for AHA’s Quest for Quality Prize, presented annually to honor leadership and innovation in achieving high-quality health care and advancing health in communities. In this podcast, Dr. Armin Schubert, vice president for medical affairs, and Dr. Ryan Truxillo, a family medicine specialist, discuss how Ochsner confronted the problem of patient deterioration and made process changes that resulted in dramatic improvement over a two-year period. Apply for the 2023 Quest for Quality Award at www.aha.org/questforquality

#JustLead featuring WellSpan Health

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 12:00:26 -0400

#JustLead is a new AHA’s podcast series highlighting how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity are transforming health care for their communities. WellSpan Health of York, Pa., was a 2022 finalist for AHA’s Quest for Quality Prize, presented annually to honor leadership and innovation in achieving high-quality health care and advancing health in communities. In this podcast, Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer Mike Seim walks us through WellSpan Health strategies and commitment for providing seamless care and addressing disparities. Apply for AHA's Quest for Quality Prize by visiting www.aha.org/questforquality

Prioritizing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Needs with Hospital Corporation of America Healthcare

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 12:00:18 -0400

The number of drug overdose deaths in America increased by nearly 30% from 2019 to 2020. Since then, the COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated the problem. Today, the great majority of overdose deaths involve an opioid, and almost 90% of individuals who are badly in need of substance use disorder treatment receive none. In this podcast, Rebecca Chickey, senior director, Behavioral Health Services at the AHA, speaks with Kimberly Wells, CEO of Pinewood Springs in Columbia, Tenn., about that hospital’s success — in collaboration with HCA Healthcare's TriStar Health and Maury Regional Medical Center — in changing the culture on how substance abuse and mental health needs were incorporated into the care and improvement of human lives. The HCA approach is about mindset; engaging patients at one of their most vulnerable times as the best way to plant the seed of hope and chart a path to post-hospitalization recovery care.

CISA Deputy Director Speaks on Defending Health care Against Cyber Attacks

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 12:00:18 -0400

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Although the issue is spotlighted right now, the truth is that attention needs to be paid to cyber security awareness every minute of every day. Hospitals and health systems can’t afford to let down their guard for a moment, because the activities of cyber criminals never stop. In this podcast we have a unique opportunity to hear from a high level government leader whose job it is to defend the nation’s critical infrastructure from cyber-attacks and other threats. Tasked with this extremely important mission, and here with us today, is Nitin Natarajan, Deputy Director for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, or CISA. Nitin is a friend and colleague of John Riggi, who joined the AHA as national advisor for cybersecurity and risk after a nearly 30 year career with the FBI. In this podcast, John and Nitin discuss the biggest cyber and other threats facing health care and other infrastructure sectors; how they overlap; the role of CISA; and what health care providers can do to defend against the sophisticated cyber threats everyone faces.

[SPONSORED] Prioritizing Hospital Alarms: Strategies for Patient Safety and Care Team Satisfaction

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 12:00:28 -0400

Hospital care teams are inundated each day by hospital alarm systems that alert them to changes in a patient’s status. Many providers say there are too many and not all deserve the same degree of attention. Listen to how one provider, Eisenhower Health, has taken important steps to reduce “alarm fatigue.” Today's podcast is brought to you by Spacelabs Healthcare.

A COVID-19 Story that Inspires Hope: Bergen New Bridge Medical Center

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:00:18 -0400

The COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most exciting global health developments in recent history. What’s also exciting are the key lessons learned from the national rollout of the vaccine -- knowledge that gives hope for a future of better health for all. In this episode, Dr. John Varbaro, chief medical officer at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, joins Kathy Cummings, director of communications for AHA's Health Research & Educational Trust, to reflect on key strategies and action steps that proved successful in getting shots into arms and overcoming barriers of access, trust and misinformation -- and the lessons learned that are moving health care forward.

Partnering with Area Agencies on Aging: Tactics for Success

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 12:00:12 -0400

As the US population continues to age, leaders at hospitals and health systems are increasingly partnering with community-based organizations to address the social and non-medical health needs of older individuals, including nutrition and transportation assistance, social connection, and caregiver support. Area Agencies on Aging are one of the community-based organizations that hospitals and health systems are forging strong, dynamic partnerships with. Today, we have a conversation that explores the ways in which hospitals and health systems are partnering with Area Agencies on Aging, as well as tips on some common pitfalls to avoid in these partnerships. Nancy Myers is the Vice President of Leadership and System Innovation at the AHA, where she leads strategy and programmatic work on population health that supports hospitals and health systems and their strategic partners to equitably support the health of the communities they serve. Marisa Scala-Foley is the Director of the Aging and Disability Business Institute, a part of USAging. The Business Institute provides community-based organizations with tools and resources they can use to successfully adapt to a changing health care environment, enhance their organizational capacity and capitalize on emerging opportunities to diversify funding.

Hypertension Control during Pregnancy & Postpartum with Missouri Hospital Assn. & Hannibal Regional

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Hypertension while pregnancy or postpartum can increase the risk of other complications that impact the mom and baby. CDC’s Million Hearts named the Missouri Hospital Association a 2021 Hypertension Control Exemplar for its efforts to prioritize hypertension control among pregnant and postpartum patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aisha Syeda, senior program manager of AHA’s strategic initiatives uncovers how as she speaks with Judy Hannan, senior advisor of CDC’s Million Hearts® initiative, Alison Williams, Vice President of Clinical Quality Improvement at Missouri Hospital Association and Kendell Farr, Womens Health Nurse Practitioner at Hannibal Regional Healthcare System.

The Role of Firearm Safety in Preventing Suicide

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:00:12 -0400

According to the CDC, firearms are used in approximately 50% of all suicides. In this podcast, Dr. Emmy Betz, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and director of the Firearm Injury Prevention Initiative joins Laura Castellanos, associate director, Hospitals Against Violence initiative at the American Hospital Association. Together they explore the connections between firearms and suicide, and what hospitals and healthcare systems need to know about firearm suicide prevention. A variety of organizations are involved in the discussion about firearm safety and suicide. These include the Bulletpoints Project, Walk the Talk America, the partnership between the VA, NSSF, and ASFP, and the American College of Surgeons. For more information on the work that Dr. Betz is doing at the Injury and Violence Prevention Center, please visit https://coloradosph.cuanschutz.edu/research-and-practice/centers-programs/ivpc/research-practice/firearm-injury-prevention

Leadership Dialogue Series: Peggy Abbott from Ouachita County Medical Center

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Recently, the hospital leadership team of Ouachita County Medical Center, in Camden, Ark., made the “heart-wrenching decision” to close a rural health clinic that the hospital had operated for 25 years. Leaders and staff also took wage cuts and reduced work hours. Take that one sad event … multiply it by more than 135 times over the past dozen years … and you’ve got some idea of the alarming economic challenges facing our nation’s rural and low-volume hospitals. Hospitals and health systems across the United States are experiencing unprecedented financial pressures right now. Labor shortages, increased expenses, and lower Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement rates impact most care providers, and none more so than rural hospitals. On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Peggy Abbott, CEO of Ouachita County Medical Center to discuss how the current economic stressors are affecting the small, rural hospital she leads. Like every hospital leader, Abbott’s foremost concern is keeping the doors open and continuing to meet patients’ and community health needs. Lassiter and Abbott talk about what that’s going to take…what changes are needed to keep the health care system in America as we know it functioning. As Abbott says, “Hospitals are too important to every community to let any hospital fail — we need every hospital.”

[Special Edition] How Prior Authorizations Can Harm Patient Care

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 12:00:12 -0400

In medical care, prior authorization was originally intended to ensure patients received appropriate care that was in line with tested methodologies. Today, “prior authorization” has become a dreaded term…often signaling delayed care and undue financial burdens posed to patients and care providers alike. In some cases, the process of prior authorization has actually put patient lives at risk. What changed over time? Most of all, what can be done about it now? In this special edition podcast, two colleagues who are very well informed about the hazards and pitfalls of the overuse or misuse of prior authorizations in the course of patient care. Terrence Cunningham directs AHA’s Administrative Simplification Policy, and Andrea Preisler is senior associate director, Administrative Simplification Policy.

Preventing Suicides in the Health Care Workforce: The Role of Resilience

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 12:00:24 -0400

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a heavy toll on our health care teams with many suffering from stress, trauma, burnout and increased behavioral health challenges. When physicians, nurses and health care professionals experience extended periods of stress and burnout, they often feel as though they are letting down their patients, their families, and their colleagues. The impact of these prolonged stressors has amplified the need for support and efforts to improve well-being, destigmatize mental health. Continue listening to learn how the Edward-Elmhurst Health’s employee mental health committee works with members across different disciplines and backgrounds to identify and implement strategies to address employee mental health challenges. In this podcast, Rebecca Chickey, Senior Director, Behavioral Health Services at the AHA, speaks with Gina Sharp, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Lindsey Harrington, Psy.D., Manager, Psychology and Counseling, of NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health in Illinois. At Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH), employee mental health and well-being is interwoven into its recruitment and retention strategies. Earning Platinum recognition from Mental Health America’s Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health, EEH serves as a best-practice example for how to support employee mental health and promote resiliency. In today’s podcast, Ms. Sharp and Dr. Harrington will describe their work to make employees feel safe, included and supported while building organizational resiliency. Moreover, they will share how they use employee feedback on workplace experiences and concerns to provide cutting-edge and empirically supported education and trainings on mental health and workplace violence.

#JustLead featuring University Hospitals

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 12:00:14 -0400

Welcome to the American Hospital Association's special podcast series, Just Lead, a look at how hospitals and health systems that have been recognized with AHA Awards for innovation, collaboration, and health equity are transforming health care for their communities. The results have been encouraging. The American Hospital Association Quest for Quality Prize is presented annually to honor health care leadership and innovation in achieving high-quality health care and advancing health in communities. The award recognizes hospitals and health care systems that are committed to and are making significant progress in providing access to exceptional quality, safe, patient- and family-centered affordable care that is improving the health of their communities. In addition, this award showcases successful innovative models of care, services and collaboration to provide seamless care and to address health care disparities. Today we are joined the recipient of AHA's 2022 Quest for Quality Prize - University Hospitals Health System in Cleveland, Ohio. Joining today is Dr. Peter Pronovost, chief quality and clinical transformational officer at University Hospitals.

Preventing Suicides in the Health Care Workforce: Lifesaving Steps from Providence

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 12:00:20 -0400

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dedicated team members at America’s hospitals and health systems have worked tirelessly to care for patients, comfort families and protect communities during this unprecedented public health crisis. However, the pandemic has taken a heavy toll on our health care teams with many suffering from stress, trauma, burnout and increased behavioral health challenges. And when physicians, nurses and health care professionals experience extended periods of stress and burnout, they often feel as though they are letting down their patients, their families, and their colleagues. Moreover, they often feel more challenged to care not just for their patients, but also themselves. The impact of these extended stressors has amplified the need for support and efforts to improve well-being, destigmatize mental health and address overall wellness from a system-wide level, to better care for the health care workers who care for our communities. In this podcast, Rebecca Chickey, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services at the AHA, speaks with Arpan Waghray, MD,. Chief Medical Officer Behavioral Health Medicine Providence and CEO of Providence's Well Being Trust, in Seattle WA. Providence not-for-profit, Catholic health care system operating more than 50 hospitals, with 120,000 caregivers, across seven states, headquartered in Renton, Washington. Providence is dedicated to a holistic approach to medicine that employs not only the most advanced treatments to improve outcomes, but also puts compassion and humanity at the heart of every interaction – including interactions with their own health care workforce. The health system has developed a range of workplace well-being programs, from promoting healthy habits to improve the overall physical and emotional health of employees, to early identification and prevention of significant behavioral health disorders and suicidal ideation.

#JustLead featuring Mount Sinai Health System

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 12:00:20 -0400

The Power of Opioid Prevention and Treatment Series: Measuring Opioid Stewardship

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Hospitals and health systems must be clear on goals of their opioid stewardship program and intentional about a process for measuring and monitoring progress. Over time, these metrics will help demonstrate organizational success and can be used to support broader initiatives to fight the opioid epidemic, such as advocacy efforts for legislative action. In this final episode of AHA’s five-part series on opioid stewardship, Marie Cleary-Fishman, vice president of clinical quality at the American Hospital Association, is joined once again by Dr. Holly Geyer, hospital internal medicine practitioner sub-specialized in addiction medicine at Mayo Clinic. The discussion: setting and surveilling opioid prescribing metrics, and managing outliers while keeping satisfaction scores high.

[SPONSORED] PeaceHealth Lab Stewardship Improves Patient Outcomes and Financial Health

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 12:00:19 -0400

Ordering the right test at the right time is crucial to providing evidence-based patient care to achieve the highest quality outcomes. It can also help increase financial sustainability for a hospital. Both of these objectives can be accomplished through a successful laboratory stewardship initiative. PeaceHealth understands this quite well. Join us to hear insights from PeaceHealth on their experience establishing a lab stewardship initiative that improved patient care and outcomes through optimized testing, all while driving down costs for enhanced financial sustainability. Today’s podcast is brought to you by the College of American Pathologists.

The Power of Opioid Prevention and Treatment Series: Mastering Opioid Stewardship Deployment

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 12:00:19 -0400

America has seen soaring rates of fatal overdoses from opioid analgesics – that is prescription drugs such as oxycodone, hydrocodone and fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is often produced and sold illegally. Hospitals are trying to limit the amount of opioids leaving their doors while increasing education about opioid use and misuse among health care workers and patients and deploying new treatment models. In this episode – part four of AHA’s five-part series on opioid stewardship, Marie Cleary-Fishman, vice president of clinical quality at the American Hospital Association, is joined once again by Dr. Holly Geyer, hospital internal medicine practitioner subspecialized in addiction medicine at Mayo Clinic. The discussion: encouraging careful and selective use of long-term opioid therapy in the context of managing chronic pain through evidence-based prescribing guidelines, educating staff and patients, and improving the referral to treatment process

Preparing for Cyberattacks with Northwell Health

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 12:00:18 -0400

Since the start of the pandemic, foreign based ransomware gangs have dramatically increased targeting of U.S. hospitals and health systems and their mission critical service providers - with many becoming victim of high impact ransomware attacks. These attacks have disrupted hospital business operations, delayed health care delivery and risked patient safety - not only for the victim organization but also for interconnected providers on a regional basis. It is essential that health care organizations understand the current cyber risk landscape and understand that high impact ransomware attacks will disrupt every business, clinical and operational function in the organization – but they can also brace for impact, and prepare for recovery. Join us to hear to insights from health care cybersecurity experts, including our own John Riggi, AHA’s National Advisor for cybersecurity and risk, who spent nearly 30 years as a highly decorated veteran of the FBI and now serves as National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association and their 5000+ member hospitals. John and his expert colleagues will discuss how hospitals and health systems can create a stronger cybersecurity posture to protect their expanded networks, their data, and most importantly, their patients and the communities they serve.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Julie Yaroch from ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 12:00:28 -0400

Some 57 million rural Americans depend on their hospital as an important source of care as well as a critical component of their area's economic and social fabric. In many areas, there is growing concern…that fabric is starting to fray. The stresses of the past 2.5 years have affected every hospital and health system in America, none more so than rural hospitals. On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Dr. Julie Yaroch (Yarrow), president of ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital in Adrian, Michigan. Lassiter and Yaroch talk about the issues that rural hospitals continue to face, including workforce shortages, increased costs of care, and an aging population. At the same time, patients living in rural communities must navigate challenges related to accessing care, such as lack of transportation and unreliable or unavailable internet access. Yaroch says collaboration is key right now. She describes how the hospital she leads views health care as a team approach and talks about its vital role as an anchor institution in the community.

Cost of Gun Violence to Hospitals with Northwell Health’s Center for Gun Violence Prevention

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 12:00:16 -0400

Each day, more than 300 Americans are shot, and, according to the CDC, more than 110 are killed by gunfire. The Government Accountability Office reports that gun violence costs hospitals over $1B annually. Dr. Chethan Sathya, a pediatric trauma surgeon and director of Northwell Health's Center for Gun Violence Research recently testified in front of the Senate’s Judiciary Committee on this topic. He sits down today with Laura Castellanos, associate director of the American Hospital Association’s Hospitals Against Violence initiative to discuss what we know about the cost to hospitals and health systems, as they treat a growing number of victims of gun violence. For more information on the work that Northwell’s Center for Gun Violence Prevention is doing, please visit https://www.northwell.edu/center-for-gun-violence-prevention

University of Utah Addresses Health and Social Needs for its Most Complex Patients

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 12:00:16 -0400

Patients with complex medical and social needs are often challenging to treat in a traditional medical encounter. An intensive high-touch care delivery model in the outpatient setting can improve value for patients, providers and payers. In this podcast, Julia Resnick, director of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives is joined by Dr. Stacy Bank, medical director of University of Utah Health’s Intensive Outpatient Clinic and Chad Westover, CEO of University of Utah Health Plans. You’ll hear Dr. Bank and Chad discuss how the clinic is partnering with the health plan to provide wraparound medical and social care to some of the health care system’s most at-risk patients – and how the new model of care is benefiting the patients, the clinicians and the health plan. Learn more about University of Utah’s Intensive Outpatient Clinic in this short film, Meet Me Where I Am. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h691wk3N0pU&t=2s&ab_channel=UofUHealth

[SPONSORED] Using a ‘defense in depth’ strategy to strengthen your cyber posture

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 12:00:16 -0400

Health care is currently seeing a dramatic increase in cyberattacks, including disruptive ransomware attacks that interrupt patient care and risk patient safety, as well as impact hospital and health system business operations. It is essential that health care organizations understand the current cyber risk landscape and understand that cyberthreats are a true enterprise risk. Acknowledging this, they can take proactive measures to prepare for and mitigate cyber risk with focused attention on fast-moving, real-time threats. Join us to hear to insights from health care cybersecurity experts and AHA members, including our own John Riggi, AHA’s National Advisor for cybersecurity and risk, who spent nearly 30 years as a highly decorated veteran of the FBI and now serves as National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association and their 5000+ member hospitals. John and his expert colleagues from Denver Health and Fort Defiance Indian Hospital will discuss how hospitals and health systems can create a stronger cybersecurity posture to protect their expanded networks, their data, and most importantly, their patients and the communities they serve. Today’s podcast is brought to you through the generous support of [redacted], an American Hospital Association Preferred Cybersecurity Service Provider for Healthcare Security Services and Incident Response specifically for small and medium hospitals up to 300 beds.

#WeAreHealthcare: Understanding and reconnecting to purpose with VCU Health System

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 12:00:16 -0400

As we start to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding and reconnecting to purpose, rediscovering our why is key to moving forward. The health care workforce is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities to redefine care delivery and encourage the next generation of leaders to use the lessons of the last two years to change for the better. Dr. Tom Yackel, President of MCV Physicians, the faculty practice plan of VCU Health System, senior associate dean for clinical affairs in the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, and past chair of the AHA’s Committee on Clinical Leadership sat down with Elisa Arespacochaga, vice president of clinical affairs and workforce at the AHA Annual meeting to share his thoughts as a clinical leader and practicing physician. This podcast was recorded at the AHA Annual Meeting.

Bundled Care Models Improve Outcomes for Moms with Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 12:00:02 -0400

Bundled care programs are a key driver in the transition from fee-for-service to value-based care. In this Members in Action podcast featuring maternal and child health efforts, Aisha Syeda, senior program manager at the AHA is speaking with CJ Stimson, Chief Medical Officer of the Vanderbilt University Medical Employee Health Plan and Senior Vice President of Value Transformation in the Office of Population Health. Together they will discuss how Vanderbilt University Medical Center is working with Metro Nashville Public Schools to provide bundled care solutions which improve maternal health outcomes and provide more value to patients and payers.

The Value of Protecting the 340B Program for Patients and Providers: A Perspective from the Field

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 12:00:12 -0400

For three decades, the 340B drug pricing program has enabled hospitals that serve high numbers of low-income patient populations to stretch scarce federal resources and provide more comprehensive care to their patients and communities. The program, which has enjoyed strong bipartisan support, does not cost taxpayers a dime. Instead, the program is subsidized by drug companies, which are required to sell certain outpatient drugs at a discount to eligible providers. These discounts help hospitals provide critical programs and services to their patients such as medication therapy management, diabetes education and counseling, and mobile treatment clinics for rural areas. Ask any hospital in the 340B program and they’ll tell you it’s done a great deal of good for the patients and communities they care for. Which is why current efforts by drug companies to reduce the program’s scope are so alarming. In this podcast, an AHA policy expert explores the value of the 340B drug pricing program and the negative impact that efforts to scale back the program have had on patients and providers with a hospital administrator for whom the 340B program has served as a critical resource in their ability to serve patients.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Mikelle Moore from Intermountain Healthcare

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 12:00:12 -0400

On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright Lassiter III, is joined by Mikelle Moore, senior vice president and chief community health officer at Intermountain Healthcare, based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Using many examples from Intermountain, Lassiter and Moore explore the different roles that hospitals and health systems can take in advancing community health — including as leader, convener and participant — and the importance of listening and building trust in every interaction with the community. Lassiter and Moore also talk about tackling long-term issues that may take decades to solve, including addressing social determinants of health, improving mental health and well-being, and increasing access to primary care.

[Special Edition] Nurses’ Journey from Ukraine to U.S. with Ochsner Health

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 12:00:22 -0400

Before long, some Ukrainian nurses who are fleeing the war in their country will be taking a journey of some six thousand miles, to call Louisiana their new home. The nurses’ journey to relocate to a safer place comes courtesy of Ochsner Health in New Orleans, which has partnered with several organizations to make it happen. Global Nurse Partners, which brings internationally experienced nurses and U.S. healthcare facilities together for permanent positions, is among the groups Ochsner has worked with, along with CGFNS International, the American Hospital Association and the American Organization for Nursing Leadership. Together, these groups are providing two very valuable services. The Ukrainian care providers are receiving refuge and protection from an escalating conflict and communities around New Orleans and across Louisiana are getting trained nurses at a time when the U.S. does not have enough nurses to meet demand. Warner Thomas, president and CEO of Ochsner Health, sat down recently with Robyn Begley, CEO of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership and Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President of workforce for the American Hospital Association, to discuss this relocation initiative and what the future may hold. This podcast was recorded in mid-July at the American Hospital Association’s annual Leadership Summit in San Diego.

A Conversation with Dr. Neel Shah: Reaching for Valuable, Equitable Maternal Care

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Women in America have the highest mortality rate than any other developed country, but equitable maternal care can change that. In this podcast, Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s strategic initiative speakers with globally recognized expert and leader in maternal care, Dr. Neel Shah. As the Chief Medical Officer at Maven Clinic, Dr. Shah will shed some light on the state of maternal health in the U.S, along with how Maven Clinic is supporting Black moms and their families. He will also share ways hospitals can transform maternal health care into becoming more valuable and equitable, for a better care experience for all mothers.

The Power of Opioid Prevention and Treatment Series: Opioid Stewardship Program Construction 101

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 12:00:28 -0400

The opioid crisis has been around for decades and has progressively worsen during the pandemic. According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, there were more than 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States from April 2020 to April 2021, an increase of 28.5% during the same time period the year before. Yet only 23% hospitals have an opioid stewardship program, according to the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, In this episode – part three of AHA’s five-part series on opioid stewardship, Marie Cleary-Fishman, vice president of clinical quality at the American Hospital Association, is joined by Dr. Holly Geyer, hospital internal medicine practitioner sub-specialized in addiction medicine at Mayo Clinic. The discussion: the roots of the opioid epidemic and the state and federal requirements - and institutional protocols – for developing solutions.

[SPONSORED] How Great Leaders Prepare for the Imaginable as well as the Unimaginable

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 12:00:18 -0400

Since the onset of the COVID pandemic in 2020, health care has faced many workforce challenges in delivering patient care, including staffing shortages and clinician burnout in the face of unrelenting demand. These challenges have affected all health care staff — from front-line workers to the C-suite. Having the right leaders in the right positions is essential to building and strengthening a dedicated workforce, as well as preparing for the expected and unexpected business continuity challenges before, during and after a crisis. This is especially true for the health care field as it continues to battle the unprecedented COVID pandemic and faces what comes next. Join us as Northwell Health shares how its leadership approaches have affected all levels of clinical, operational, and administrative staff to help the system weather the storms of the COVID Pandemic, the Great Resignation and more, all while providing the highest-quality patient outcomes. The conversation will also touch upon the concept of Destination Employer and how it supports the hospital’s culture. Today's podcast is brought you by the Hebets Company https://www.hebetsco.com/

The Power of Opioid Prevention and Treatment Series: Starting your opioid stewardship journey

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 12:00:03 -0400

During the past two years, the health care field has been focused on fighting COVID-19…as it should be. Yet at the same time, another crisis surges. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data that shows synthetic opioid fatalities rose by an unprecedented 55% during the pandemic – from September 2019 - September 2020. And according to a national survey conducted in 2020 by the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, only 23% of hospitals have an opioid stewardship program. In this episode, Marie Cleary-Fishman, vice president of clinical quality at the American Hospital Association is joined by Dr. Holly Geyer, internal medicine practitioner sub-specialized in addiction medicine at Mayo Clinic. The discussion: what to do about the surging number of overdose deaths during the pandemic. In this episode, Dr. Geyer will share the importance of establishing an opioid stewardship program no matter the size of your practice, and essential steps, tools and tips to achieving success.

Navigating the Nation’s Infant Formula Shortage

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Recently, families across the nation are struck with a shortage of infant formula, causing ripples of misinformation. Though efforts to alleviate the current recall on infant formula, and related supply chain issues are in the works, many mothers and families are still struggling to feed their infants. The lack of support resources and the rise in prices have also contributed to the stress families are facing. Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives sits down with Dr. David Paul, Service Line Leader of Woman and Children at ChristianaCare and Kristy Anderson, Clinical Nutrition Manager at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center to discuss ways their organizations educated and worked with families to identify alternate formula options, and mitigated misinformation. They will also share steps hospitals are taking to manage such instances better in the future. For any hospital needing either normal formula or specialty formula, reach out to Abbott Nutrition at www.abbottnutrition.com/metabolics. For latest information on formula supply and tips, visit www.fda.gov.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Erin Fraher

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 12:00:13 -0400

On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright Lassiter III, talks with Erin Fraher, associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine and research associate professor in the Department of Surgery at UNC School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, N.C. She also is director of the Carolina Health Workforce Research Center, one of five national health workforce research centers in the U.S. Erin and Wright talk about trends in the health care workforce that have been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Erin suggests the fundamental questions for hospitals and health systems are, “How are we deploying [people]? How are we utilizing them to the best possible ability to keep them happy, keep the hospital productive and keep patients healthy and well?” She further explains: “It’s this notion of turning workforce planning on its head — from planning for professions to planning for patients.

[Special Edition] Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Hospital Quality Measurement Programs

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 12:00:03 -0400

CMS's Hospital Quality Measurement and Value programs have shaped the hospital field and given patients information to inform their care for over 15 years. But a once in a lifetime pandemic has had a profound impact on how those programs operate. On today's podcast, we'll discuss what happened with these critical programs during the pandemic and where CMS can go from here. Joining this [Special Edition] podcast to discuss is Akin Demehin, Senior Director of Quality and Patient Safety Policy with AHA. This podcast was recorded live at the AHA Annual Meeting.

Caring for Kids at Home: Gillette Children's Virtual Rehab Program

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 12:00:03 -0400

Hospitals have accelerated the development of their innovative telehealth programs during the pandemic. In this Members in Action podcast, Julia Resnick, director of strategic initiatives at the AHA, is speaking with Thomas Harris, Jr., Executive Vice President of Operations at Gillette Children’s in Saint Paul, Minnesota. They will be discussing how Gillette Children’s virtual rehab program has enabled them to better serve their patients.

Equity Through Precision Heart Care with Cleerly, Inc. and Lee Health System

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Dr. Leon D. Caldwell, Senior Director, Health Equity Strategies and Innovation, in the Institute of Diversity and Health Equity at the AHA, sits down with Dr. James Min, CEO and Co-founder of AHA Associate, Cleerly, as well as Dr. Richard Chazal, Senior Cardiologist and Medical Director of the Heart & Vascular Institute at Lee Health System. Dr. Min and Dr. Chazal are at the forefront of a new population-based, precision heart care approach that is transforming the historical approach to cardiovascular care by treating the actual disease instead of symptoms. Together, they discuss how this new standard of care ultimately impacts health equity. For more information on the journey to health equity please visit https://equity.aha.org/

Trauma-Informed Leadership with Henry Ford Hospital and Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Leading care teams through COVID-19 has been a challenge unlike any other. As hospital leaders struggle to retain and support an exhausted workforce they are left looking to understand how to address the traumatic stress caused by COVID-19. In today's episode, Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Dr. Brooke Buckley, vice president and CMO of Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Robert Matheny, Manager of Neurodiagnostics at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, MI to hear about their work on trauma-informed leadership and how they’ve approached leading teams in the midst of COVID-19.

[SPONSORED] Strategic Planning Imperatives for Hospitals and Health Systems to Get Right

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 12:00:27 -0400

Strategy. Transformation. Both are integral to today’s most successful health care planning agendas and associated initiatives. Accenture’s perspective on what, why, and how hospitals and health systems are planning strategic agendas brings new perspective on these approaches. Rather than taking a more traditional linear approach to strategic planning, hospitals and health systems that successfully plan focus on creating an integrated “Connected” plan leading to more actionable and sustainable outcomes. BayCare understands this well. Join us for a discussion on various approaches hospitals and health systems can take when establishing their strategic plans, and hear insights from BayCare about their experiences and benefits from adopting a “Connected” transformation planning approach and the lessons they learned along the way. Today’s podcast is brought to you by Accenture.

#WeAreHealthcare : Sustaining a Healthy Workforce with Phelps Health

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 12:00:14 -0400

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the health care workforce. Despite these challenges, the staff team at Phelps Health continue to grow through a series of initiatives designed to create a culture of trust and bring all staff members into crucial decision-making processes. In today's episode Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Jason Shenefield, CEO at Phelps Health in Rolla, Missouri to discuss the innovative approaches Phelps has taken to grow and sustain a healthy workforce.

Encouraging COVID-19 vaccination in pregnant women

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 12:00:10 -0400

Pregnant women around the country faced uncertainty upon the arrival of COVID-19. The medical community identified significant knowledge gaps in the impact of the virus on mothers’ and babies’ health at all stages of pregnancy. Knowing more about the impact of the virus on pregnancy and the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant women is vital for treatment and prevention. In this episode, Dr. Rachel Humphrey, director of AdventHealth for Women’s Maternal-Fetal Medicine, joins Kathy Cummings, director of communications at AHA, to talk about the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines for both mom and baby, the critical role physicians play in addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, and how doctor-patient relationships are strengthening during this pandemic.

Transforming Pediatric Mental Health: Partnerships and Integration at Rady Children's Hospital

Fri, 27 May 2022 12:00:20 -0400

Between 2011 and 2015, the number of children presenting to the ED for behavioral health concerns at Rady Children’s Hospital increased by 500%. To decrease the need for emergency behavioral health care services and to improve the early identification and treatment of symptoms, the Rady team developed their Transforming Mental Health Initiative, which integrates behavioral health services into the pediatric primary care setting. In this Members in Action podcast, Rebecca Chickey, AHA’s senior director of behavioral health, is joined by Domonique Hensler, Senior Director of Care Redesign Planning and Mental Health Integration, and Dr. Benjamin Maxwell, Interim Division Director of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, to discuss this care model’s positive outcomes for patients, families and providers.

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Thu, 26 May 2022 12:00:20 -0400

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month and it is an opportunity to reflect on the generations of Asian Americans who have enriched America’s history and celebrate the nearly 20 million Asian American individuals who are instrumental to our country’s future success. In this podcast, Joy Lewis, AHA’s senior vice president of Health Equity Strategies and executive director of the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity is joined by Janet A. Liang, executive vice president, group president and chief operating officer, care delivery, Kaiser Permanente to discuss her experience as an Asian American health care leader, challenges within the Asian American community and what this month means to her.

[Special Edition]: Insurers’ “white bagging” drug policy threatens patient safety

Tue, 24 May 2022 18:30:09 -0400

Increases in consolidation and alignment between commercial health plans and pharmacy benefit managers have resulted in a series of business practices designed to steer patients to insurer-affiliated pharmacies and away from patients’ longstanding providers to the detriment of patient care. Under new policies being implemented by a number of large commercial insurance companies, they steer patients to third-party specialty pharmacies – often owned by the same parent company as the insurer – to acquire medication necessary for clinician-administered treatments, such as chemo infusions. Commonly referred to as “white bagging,” this practice raises significant patient safety issues, results in frequent delays in care and shifts tremendous administrative burden to hospitals to reconcile these policies on behalf of their patients. To examine this concerning trend, we hear from Mark Howell, AHA’s director of policy and patient safety, and Michelle Millerick AHA’s senior associate director of health insurance coverage policy.

[SPONSORED] Loyola University Health System’s Pop-Up Laboratory Strengthens Clinical Collaborations

Fri, 20 May 2022 12:00:19 -0400

Join us to hear how Loyola University Health System’s new laboratory approach during the COVID pandemic was able to broaden communication and collaboration between clinicians and hospital leadership, improve patient outcomes and streamline process efficiencies while also increasing visibility for the system and reinforcing Loyola as a premiere resource for diagnosing and treating illnesses. Today’s podcast is brought to you by the College of American Pathologists.

A Sustainable Community HUB and Wellbeing Collaborative in Winona Minnesota

Wed, 18 May 2022 12:00:19 -0400

Winona Health and the Winona Wellbeing Collaborative have addressed the fragmentation and silos between local agencies and providers. Hear from Rachelle Schultz, Ed.D., CEO, Winona Health and community leaders how the Pathways Community HUB model was used as a framework in designing the Winona Community HUB to serve the unique needs of the region. A community connector from Live Well Winona tracks the progress of clients through the HUB model, which is sustained by commercial payments for completed pathways.

[Special Edition]: Medicare Advantage: New Trends Raise Concerns about Access to Care

Fri, 13 May 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Medicare Advantage or MA Plans are another way for beneficiaries to get Medicare Part A and Part B coverage delivered through private insurance companies. MA Plans adhere to the rules set by Medicare to cover beneficiaries, but their benefits are delivered by Medicare approved private companies. MA plans are part of a broader trend towards public sources of coverage, like Medicare and Medicaid, increasingly relying on private health plans to provide or administer their health benefits. Last year 42 % of all Medicare beneficiaries got their. benefits through private MA plans. Enrollment in these plans is growing at nearly 10% per year. There is serious concerns that coverage and patient access are being eroded as a result of health insurer efforts to restrict access and that there is a tremendous burden on health care providers to manage these insurer policies. In fact the HHS Office of Inspector General recently published a report finding that MA plans have exhibited a pattern of denying prior authorization and payment requests that would have covered by original Medicare. These types of denials have raised fears about certain insurer practices, which may impede beneficiary access to medically necessary care. Joining the podcast today to discuss the trends of how Medicare Advantage plans may affect patient care is Michelle Millerick, AHA's Senior Associate Director of Health Insurance Coverage. (Recorded at AHA's Annual Meeting in Washington D.C.)

Applying an Equity Lens to Digital Health

Wed, 11 May 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, digital solutions, including mobile health apps, patient portals and telehealth serve as a critical access point for health care providers to reach patients. However, many individuals have not been able to benefit from these digital solutions. In this podcast, Julia Resnick, director of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives is joined by Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives and Sarah Swank, Counsel at Nixon Peabody. Priya and Sarah will discuss their upcoming article on digital health equity in a special edition of the American Health Law Association Journal of Health and Life Sciences Law. Here, they discuss barriers to access digital solutions and the role of health care leaders, including attorneys, in improving digital health equity.

The Beginning Stages: Establishing a Pediatric Mental Health Urgent Care Center

Wed, 04 May 2022 12:00:13 -0400

1 in 5 children experience a mental illness. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health challenges and suicide risk among children. In this Members in Action podcast featuring maternal and child health efforts, Aisha Syeda, program manager at the AHA is joined by Chanda Chacòn, president and chief executive officer at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center to discuss the hospital’s investment in establishing a pediatric mental health urgent care center.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Leading edge CEO discusses planning for Health care Cyberattacks

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 16:00:21 -0400

Over the past few years every leader of health care organization in the country has had to acknowledge the threat of a cyberattack that has the potential to compromise systems and patient safety. In this podcast, John Riggi, AHA's National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk, is speaking with former AHA Chair, Brian Gragnolati, President and CEO of Atlantic Health System about best practices for care providers to avoid, plan for, and mitigate cyber threats.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Importance of Integrating Behavioral and Primary Health

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 12:00:21 -0400

The integration of behavioral health and primary health care leads to early detection and treatment of numerous issues. Patients suffering from chronic physical ailments experience better outcomes, as well as an improved quality of life. Creating this integration begins with education and partnerships, both within the health care system and the surrounding community. Denise Dugas is the Senior Director of Mental and Behavioral Health at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and among the nearly 1,000 health care leaders attending this years meeting. Today, Denise joins Rebecca Chickey, AHA's Senior Director of Behavioral Health services to discuss the importance of integration of behavioral and primary health and speciality health care within a hospital system.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Beyond Disparities to Equitable Health Systems

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 21:00:21 -0400

Over the past few years the goal of health equity has moved into our national conversation about health care in a new, bigger and different way. These days health care leaders don't just say we want to eliminate health disparities. It's evolving into, we have a plan to do this. How to create that plan is the purpose of the new Health Equity Roadmap, released in March by the American Hospital Association's Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. Jack Lynch is a member of the AHA Board of Trustees, President and CEO of Mainline Health in suburban Philadelphia, and among the approximately 1,000 health care leaders attending this meeting. Today, Jack joins Joy Lewis, AHA's Senior Vice-President for Health Equity Strategies and Executive Director of the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity, and Dr. Leon Caldwell, Senior Director of Health Equity Strategies and Innovation with IFDHE to talk about the importance of health equity, how disparities can be eliminated, and what hospitals have learned from quality improvement efforts that may apply to advancing equity.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Leading for Health Equity

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 21:00:21 -0400

In late March the American Hospital Association's Institute for Diversity and Health Equity rolled out its long awaited Health Equity Roadmap, a national initiative to drive improvement in health care outcomes, health equity, diversity, and inclusion. The Health Equity Roadmap is framework to help hospitals and health care systems chart their own paths towards transformation, dismantle structural barriers, become more equitable and inclusive organization, and help to realize AHA's vision of a just society of healthy communities, where all individuals reach their highest potential for health. By creation and design, the Roadmap is an innovative approach to advance health equity. It is meant to be a game changer. AHA's Board of Trustees member, Montez Carter is president and CEO of St. Mary's Healthcare system in Athens, GA. and is among the approximately 1,000 health care leaders gathered at this years meeting. Today, Montez joins Joy Lewis, AHA's Senior Vice-President for Health Equity Strategies and Executive Director of the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity, and Dr. Leon Caldwell, Senior Director of Health Equity Strategies and Innovation with IFDHE, to talk about the health equity roadmap, his contributions to it, and his hopes for it.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Meeting the Challenge of Delivering Behavioral Health

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 16:00:11 -0400

Rural hospitals are community strongholds, serving as the key point of care for nearly 20 percent of Americans. Beyond providing healing and hope, rural hospitals nationwide are pillars of their local economies, creating essential jobs that support families and community vitality. Access to behavioral health services has been a chronic need across rural America for decades. Driven largely by shortages of clinical professionals, the demand for care has only grown during the COVID-19 pandemic. While tele-behavioral health has shown promise, much more must be done to eliminate the disparity and access to care and treatment to those who live in rural communities. On this podcast we hear from 3 leaders from across rural America who found a way, tele-health, outpatient, and inpatient, to deliver essential behavioral health services to the residents of their communities.

Surging Input Costs Create Many Challenges for Hospitals and Health Systems

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 11:20:06 -0400

One clear lesson from the pandemic over the past couple of years is that America cannot be strong without its hospitals and health systems being strong, but their strength is under serious stress right now. Caregivers work round the clock to nurse ill patients back to health, yet many hospitals and health systems are themselves not out of the woods yet, due to a confluence of economic factors that have skyrocketed the cost of caring for their patients and communities. In this podcast, two American Hospital Association policy experts walk us through the severe economic environment that many care providers find themselves in right now, as highlighted in a new report from the AHA.

Live from AHA Annual Meeting: Workforce Task Force Update

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 21:00:01 -0400

Ask nearly any health care CEO in America what they consider their number 1 problem and they can answer with one word: Workforce. The pandemic has brought long-simmering workforce challenges to a boil. Over the past couple of years the demands and stress on health care workers has gone way up…while job satisfaction and staff retention has gone way down. What can be done? A new American Hospital Association Workforce Task Force is in the hunt for answers. Welcome to Advancing Health, a podcast coming to you this week from the American Hospital Association’s Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C. Ron Werft, president and CEO of Cottage Health in Santa Barbara, California is chair of the AHA’s board-appointed workforce task force. In this podcast, he speaks with Robyn Begley, the AHA’s chief nursing officer and CEO of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, about what the Task Force is tasked with, and how it’s helping lead the development of resources for the field.

#WeAreHealthcare : Questions with Physician Leaders : Dr. Mohammad Agha

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 12:00:04 -0400

Clinicians more so than ever are making the move into leadership positions. As this movement occurs there are many ways these new leaders can make impacts in their organizations not only in addressing workforce challenges but also in increasing diversity and inclusion of health care teams. In today's episode Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Dr. Mohammad Agha, Medical Director of Care Coordination at SSM Health to discuss emerging physician leaders and lessons to address the clinical workforce challenges.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Matthew Stanley

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 12:00:14 -0400

On this Leadership Dialogue Series podcast, AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Matthew Stanley, D.O., a psychiatrist and clinical vice president of the behavioral health service line at Avera Health, based in Sioux Falls, S.D. Wright and Dr. Stanley discuss the impact that COVID-19 has had on people’s mental health and new ways to support increased access to behavioral health services across the care continuum.

From Recognizing Implicit Bias to Creating Action

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 12:00:18 -0400

Though recognizing implicit bias is important, hospitals must have an action plan to address it. In this podcast, Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives is joined by Dr. Zsakeba Henderson, Senior Vice President and Interim Chief Medical and Health Officer of March of Dimes to discuss why we must educate and train health care professionals, nursing and medical students about implicit bias, but also begin to stimulate action.

Cybersecurity: Lessons Learned from Ransomware Attack with UVM Health

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 12:00:08 -0400

In this special Cybersecurity podcast we have the opportunity to talk to leaders of an AHA member hospital who was a victim of a major ransomware attack in the Fall of 2020. Dr. Stephen Leffler, President and Chief Operating Officer and Dr. Douglas Gentile, Chief Medical Information Officer, join us from the University of Vermont Medical Center in Burlington, Vermont. John previously interviewed them about lessons learned and best practices during the attack which they are willing to share on today’s podcast.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Marcus Whitney

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Marcus Whitney, founder and partner of Jumpstart Health Investors, to discuss innovation and equity in health care. Whitney emphasizes the importance of hospitals and health systems developing an innovation practice that is integrated with the organization’s operational model. Lassiter and Whitney also talk about the impact that investing in and providing venture capital to minority-owned businesses will have on the future of health care.

Leadership Dialogue Series: Debbie Hatmaker

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

AHA Board Chair Wright L. Lassiter III is joined by Debbie Hatmaker, chief nursing officer of the American Nurses Association Enterprise. Hatmaker shares insights about what to do “systemically” to ensure a hospital environment where nurses feel safe and are supported and valued for their work. Lassiter and Hatmaker also discuss workplace violence, the current nursing shortage and retention strategies.

#WeAreHealthcare: Addressing Workforce Challenges in America's Health Care Systems

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

A talented, qualified, engaged and diverse workforce is at the heart of America’s health care system. But hospitals and health systems face mounting and critical staffing shortages that could jeopardize access to care in the communities they serve. As hospitals struggle to retain and support an exhausted workforce they are left looking for unique ways to better support and enhance resilience among clinicians and to address the traumatic stress caused by COVID-19. In today's episode Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Dr. Rebecca Schwartz, associate professor and chief of Social Behavioral Sciences at the Department of Occupational Medicine and Epidemiology and Prevention, associate investigator at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research and director of Research and Evaluation at the Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery at Northwell Health, as well as Dr. Mayer Bellehsen, director of Behavioral Health at the Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery at Northwell Health and Mildred and Frank Feinberg Division of the Unified Behavioral Health Center for Military Veterans and Their Families to talk about the Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery at Northwell Health.

What's a Blue Zone? How Klamath County, OR changed its health trajectory as a certified Blue Zone

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Rural hospitals are community strongholds, serving as the key point of care for nearly 20% of Americans. Beyond providing healing and hope, rural hospitals nationwide are pillars of their local economies, creating essential jobs that support families and community vitality. Many rural communities struggle with health issues that extend beyond their hospital’s walls. Issues such as transportation, housing, employment, food security, economic stability and other social determinants have an impact on the physical and mental well-being of a community. Hospitals are taking the lead to address social determinants as a response to population and community health. On this episode, we hear from leaders from Klamath Falls, Oregon who have combined resources to establish a certified Blue Zones Community that is a community-led, well-being improvement initiative designed to make healthy choices easier through permanent changes to a town’s environment, policy, and social networks.

Uncovering Gaps in Maternal Care with Anushay Hossain

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 13:00:17 -0400

The health care experiences of many women, especially women of color, are untold. In her book, “The Pain Gap: How Sexism and Racism in Healthcare Kill Women”, author and journalist Anushay Hossain shares her own trauma of giving birth, and explores the eye-opening experiences of many women – who were unheard and subjected to systemic sexism and structural racism. In honor of 2022’s International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives chats with Anushay to discuss her inspiration and research behind the book, and ways we can empower women to share their stories in order to revolutionize maternal health care.

Cybersecurity Report: FBI & AHA discuss Russia, Ukraine and Cybersecurity in U.S. Health Care Sector

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 16:30:00 -0400

John Riggi, who spent nearly 30 years as a highly decorated veteran of the FBI and now serves as National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association and their 5000+ member hospitals. In his role, he serves as a national resource to assist members in defending against cyber-attacks and other threats to their organizations. In this special Cybersecurity podcast, we have a very unique opportunity to talk to a leading expert in the field of cybersecurity John’s close friend and colleague, FBI Cyber Engagement and Intelligence Section Chief Dave Ring. John and Dave will discuss the latest on the current crisis in Ukraine and how it could potentially impact the U.S. Health Care Sector.

#WeAreHealthcare: Workforce Strategies with the AHA Talent Scan

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 13:00:00 -0400

As the field continues to move forward from the COVID-19 pandemic into the new normal, we understand more clearly than ever that our dedicated workforce is the backbone of our health care system. Delivering quality health care through ongoing and emerging challenges depends on our ability to recruit, train, retain and support a resilient and flexible workforce. Hospitals’ and health systems’ ability to recruit, train, retain and support health care workers in the current environment will be shaped by several trends transforming health care. These range from fundamental shifts in delivery models, including widespread telemedicine adoption, to accelerated efforts to reduce health care disparities, to continued pressure on hospitals and health systems to reestablish economic sustainability. Today we hear the perspectives of Elisa Arespacochaga, vice president, clinical affairs and workforce of the American Hospital Association, and Robyn Begley, senior vice president & chief nursing officer of the American Hospital Association and CEO of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, as they share valuable workforce insights you can use to guide your organization forward during this time of uncertainty and continued transformation. For more information visit https://www.aha.org/aha-talent-scan

Part 2: Value as Catalyst: Uniting Clinicians and Hospital Leaders

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 13:00:07 -0400

Part two of this series features speakers from AHA’s most downloaded podcasts. Moderated by AHA's Elisa Arespacochaga, vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, Elisa talks with Brooke Buckley, chief medical officer of Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, and Dr. Harsh Trivedi, president and CEO of Sheppard Pratt Health System, about tackling how a culture of value supports resilience across organizations and teams and how clinical training can combine with one’s leadership journey to guide that value.

Part 1: Value as Catalyst: Uniting Clinicians and Hospital Leaders

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 13:00:03 -0400

This special two-part series features speakers from AHA’s most downloaded podcasts. Moderated by AHA’s Priya Bathija, vice president of strategic initiatives, Priya talks with Dr. David Perlstein, president and chief executive officer for SBH Health and Dr. David Zaas, chief executive officer for MUSC Health about how hospital leaders and clinicians can come together to build value by scaling strategies that lower cost, improve outcomes and enhance patient experiences.

VacciNATION: How Hartford HealthCare Is Improving Care and Getting People Vaccinated in the Pandemic

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 13:00:14 -0400

COVID-19 has demonstrated that in health care, change is inevitable. However, changes caused by the darkest circumstances, like the ongoing pandemic, can result in better access to care, better health outcomes and a more pleasing patient experience, if we approach it in the correct manner. Jeffrey Flaks, president and CEO of Hartford HealthCare is optimistic about the future of health care. In this episode, Jeffrey Flaks and Rebecca Stewart, Vice President of Content Strategy, join Kathy Cummings, AHA's director of communications, to share how Hartford HealthCare is changing health care for the better, connecting with people in meaningful ways- and getting more people vaccinated against COVID-19.

Hospitals at home with UnityPoint Health

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 13:00:27 -0400

The hospital at home model of care is emerging as an important strategy to improve value during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Hospitals across the country are launching or expanding their hospital at home programs. As they do so, they're creating new care teams designed to deliver acute care outside the walls of the hospital. UnityPoint Health in Iowa is one health care system that has grown its hospital at home services over the course of the pandemic. In this podcast AHA's Julia Resnick, Director of Strategic Initiatives, speaks with Dr. Peter Read, Medical Director of Hospital to Home at UnityPoint Health, about what it takes to build a care team that can get a hospital at home program off the ground.

Joining Hands: Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence: Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 13:00:05 -0400

Now that children are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, families are considering how to best keep their children safe and healthy. In this new podcast series, Joining Hands to Build Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence, we are speaking with leaders from three national organizations to discuss how to address vaccine hesitancy, specifically in historically marginalized communities. AHA’s Priya Bathija, vice president of strategic initiatives, moderates today’s conversation is with Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum. They will be discussing what it takes to build confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. This podcast was funded in part by a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The contents of this resource do not necessarily represent the policy of CDC or HHS, and should not be considered an endorsement by the Federal Government.

Joining Hands to Build Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence: Unidos US

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 13:00:15 -0400

Though many children are now eligible to receive the COVID-19, families continue to have questions about how to best keep their children safe and healthy. In this new series, Joining Hands to Build Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence, we are speaking with leaders from three national organizations to discuss how to address vaccine hesitancy, specifically for kids in historically marginalized communities. Today’s podcast is moderated by AHA’s Priya Bathija, vice president of strategic initiatives. She is joined by Rita Carreon, Vice President for Health at Unidos US. They will be discussing how to overcome barriers to vaccine confidence and access in Latino communities. This podcast was funded in part by a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The contents of this resource do not necessarily represent the policy of CDC or HHS, and should not be considered an endorsement by the Federal Government.

Joining Hands to Build Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence: National Urban League

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 13:00:15 -0400

Eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to children, yet families continue to have questions about how to best keep their children safe and healthy. In this new podcast series, Joining Hands to Build Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence, we are speaking with leaders from three national organizations to discuss how to address vaccine hesitancy, specifically in historically marginalized communities. AHA’s Julia Resnick, director of strategic initiatives, moderates today’s podcast. She is joined by Lydia Isaac, Vice President for Health Equity and Policy at the National Urban League. They will be discussing the importance of clear communication and outreach to build vaccine confidence in the Black community. This podcast was funded in part by a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The contents of this resource do not necessarily represent the policy of CDC or HHS, and should not be considered an endorsement by the Federal Government.

[Sponsored] Shared Governance and Actionable Data Empower Nurses and Increase Patient Satisfaction

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 13:00:14 -0400

Hospitals and health systems are facing one of the most unique times that the field has ever experienced. They are still managing through the ebbs and flows of the COVID pandemic while developing new strategies and initiatives to assist in their recovery and rebuilding efforts. The focus on lessons learned and sharing those lessons with each other is critical as the field continues its path to recovery. Implementing a shared governance culture, lean principles and care team rounding all support achieving the field’s COVID recovery efforts to enhance collaboration, empower nurses, increase patient satisfaction and manage costs. Shared governance is not a new concept to clinical and nursing teams. Shared governance in the hospital setting is critical when making decisions that affect both clinical team members and patients. Join us to hear insights on how shared governance model best practices can promote partnerships and collaboration between nurses and other health care professionals and how it provides bedside caregivers a voice and opportunity to help ensure patient-centric care is delivered. Today’s podcast is brought to you by Spacelabs Healthcare.

Palliative Care during the Pandemic Part 2: Increased need for palliative care during the pandemic

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 13:00:28 -0400

Palliative care is the medical sub-specialty that treats the symptoms and stresses of serious illness. Over 50 million Americans have been diagnosed with COVID-19 since the pandemic began and, by definition, those who have been hospitalized were seriously ill. The following audio is from a live, virtual event held in November 2021, and is the second episode of this two-part series. Hosted by AHA Vice President of Clinical Quality Marie Cleary-Fishman, the esteemed group of panelists includes CAPC CEO Brynn Bowman; AHA EVP & COO Michelle Hood; Medical Director of Palliative Services and Associate Professor of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University Dr. Danielle Noreika; and Professor and Chair of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at Mount Sinai Dr. R. Sean Morrison.

Palliative Care during the Pandemic Part 1: How lessons learned help patients & rebuild workforce

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 13:00:18 -0400

Palliative care is the medical sub-specialty that treats the symptoms and stresses of serious illness. Over 50 million Americans have been diagnosed with COVID-19 since the pandemic began and, by definition, those who have been hospitalized were seriously ill. The following audio is from a live, virtual event held in November 2021, and is the first episode of this two-part series. Hosted by AHA Vice President of Clinical Quality Marie Cleary-Fishman, the esteemed group of panelists includes CAPC CEO Brynn Bowman; AHA EVP & COO Michelle Hood; Medical Director of Palliative Services and Associate Professor of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University Dr. Danielle Noreika; and Professor and Chair of the Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at Mount Sinai Dr. R. Sean Morrison.

Analysis of Supreme Court Oral Arguments on Vaccine Mandates

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 21:20:02 -0400

The U.S. Supreme Court today held oral arguments on whether to allow the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ and Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s vaccine mandates to go into effect while appeals are heard in the courts of appeals. While trying to predict how the court will rule based on the oral arguments is difficult, there were some key moments that deserve a deeper dive. In this episode, Chad Golder, AHA Deputy General Counsel, talks with Sean Marotta, a partner at Hogan Lovells and AHA outside counsel. They break down today’s oral arguments and what the next steps could be for the CMS and OSHA mandates.

Ransomware Attack Victims Speak Out: Best Practices & Lessons Learned from Ransomware Attacks

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 13:00:22 -0400

In this episode, John Riggi, AHA Senior Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk talks to leaders of two AHA member hospitals who were victims of major ransomware attacks in the Fall of 2020. Adrienne Chase, Corporate Compliance and Risk Officer and Mandy Shelast, Vice President, Physician Services & Clinical Networks join us from Dickinson County Healthcare System in Iron Mountain, Michigan. John Gaede, Director of Information Services and Ronald Woita, Chief Nursing Officer & Vice President of Patient Care Services join us from Sky Lakes Medical Center, in Klamath Falls, Oregon. John Riggi previously interviewed them about lessons learned and best practices during the attack which they are willing to share on today’s podcast. Now here’s John to give the proper introductions.

Best of Advancing Health: Working towards value together Part 2

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 13:00:02 -0400

Happy holidays and thanks for listening to the Advancing Health podcast. We hope you have found it useful and informative! As we wind up 2021 we wanted to re-release a couple of our most popular episodes from the last year. Advancing Health returns with new episodes in 2022. Until then we hope you and your family have a safe and wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year!

Best of Advancing Health: Working towards value together Part 1

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 13:00:16 -0400

Healthcare Under Stress and Under Cyber Attack: The Correlation to Excess Deaths

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 13:00:20 -0400

In this podcast, John Riggi, highly decorated veteran of the FBI and Senior Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association talks to two leading experts and colleagues in the field of cybersecurity from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) / U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Dr. L. Reuven Pasternak, Interim Senior Advisor and Joshua Corman, Chief Strategist. Reuven and Joshua will discuss a CISA Insights report “Provide Medical Care is in Critical Condition: Analysis and Stakeholder Decision Support to Minimize Further Harm” a groundbreaking qualitative and quantitative analysis, which models and measures hospital strain associated with excess deaths, as well as the effect of ransomware and the impact such a strain can have on a hospital and region, further contributing to excess deaths. This report tends to corroborate what to many is intuitive - ransomware attacks on hospitals may disrupt care delivery, risk patient safety and are threat to life crimes.

Allina Leaders discuss guidance on digital solutions in behavioral health care

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 20:35:40 -0400

Since the onset of the pandemic, we have seen an increase in stress anxiety. depression, substance use and elevated numbers of suicidal ideation. The pandemic accelerated the adoption and expansion of tele-health services and reduced barriers to providing virtual care. In this podcast, Rebecca Chickey, senior director of field engagement and behavioral health services at AHA, is speaking with leaders from Allina health in Minnesota and western Wisconsin about mental health and addiction services and key digital innovations that the health system is using to provide behavioral health care to patients throughout the pandemic and beyond.

Nurse leaders discuss COVID-19 nursing challenges, solutions

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 13:00:00 -0400

The fourth and current wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has created a worrisome landscape for the nursing profession. Nurses across the country report that they no longer feel celebrated as heroes as they did in the early days of the pandemic. Hostile patients, vaccine distrust, staffing shortages and community indifference have been on the rise, making the job of treating and containing the coronavirus even more difficult. How can hospitals and health systems best support their nurses? What are some ways to reduce stress for frontline workers? And what can be learned from the current pandemic climate to help strengthen and fortify the profession moving forward? AHA Senior Communications Manager Ben Wise is joined by Patricia Quinn, a registered nurse and board certified nurse executive serving as director of Maternal Child Health as well as the nurse manager of neonatal ICU and pediatrics at Lenox Hill Hospital and Northwell Health – and AHA Board Member Mary Beth Kingston, PhD, Chief Nursing Officer at Advocate Aurora Health and an American Academy of Nursing fellow – to discuss the current landscape of the nursing profession.

PFACs supporting hospitals through COVID-19

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 17:00:42 -0400

Today, in our final episode of our four-part series on Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs) Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Nicole Iarrobino, senior project administrator of Patient and Family Advisory Councils at John Hopkins Hospital and Health System to discuss how their PFACs helped to support their organizations through the COVID-19 pandemic.

PFACs creating partnerships between providers, patients, and families

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 13:00:02 -0400

In the third episode of our four-part series on Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs), Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Caroline DeLongchamps, manager of Patient and Family-Centered Care, and Quality and Safety, at MUSC Health to discuss how to go about establishing a PFAC including setting them up, staffing them, and sustaining them in your organization.

Establishing a PFAC in your Organization, Councils truly reflect the patients they serve

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 13:00:02 -0400

In the second episode of our four-part series on Patient and Family Advisory Councils (PFACs), Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Jacqueline Beckerman, chief patient experience officer and senior director at ICARE Commitment at the University of Rochester Medical Center to discuss how to go about establishing a PFAC and the importance of representing all aspects of your community.

Nursing Leadership in PFACs

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:00:12 -0400

It has been well established that Patient and Family Advisory councils (PFACs) are an excellent way to capture the patient’s voice and perspective. These councils help health care institutions and providers to hear the voice of the patient, identify the needs of their patient population and bring patient and clinicians views closer together. In this four-part series we hear from leaders in this area and explore the important role of PFACs as hospitals navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. In today's episode Elisa Arespacochaga, AHA vice president of clinical affairs and workforce, sits down with Robyn Begley, AHA senior vice president and chief nursing officer, and Pamela Rudisill, senior vice president and chief nursing officer at Community Health Systems to discuss the value of nursing leadership in PFACs.

PFACs supporting hospitals through COVID-19

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Improving the Patient Billing Experience: Froedtert

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 13:00:12 -0400

In the final episode of this Members in Action podcast series, Julia Resnick, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the AHA, is speaking with Scott Hawig, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administration Officer at Froedtert and Paul Spencer, Vice-President of Managed Care and Revenue Cycle Services to learn how Froedtert in Wisconsin is consolidating bills from across the continuum of care to make the process more patient friendly.

Improving the Patient Billing Experience: MedStar Health

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 13:00:24 -0400

In episode two of this Members in Action Podcast series, Julia Resnick, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the AHA, is speaking with Stephanie Schneider, Vice President for MedStar Georgetown Medical Center, and Susan Whitecotton, Vice President of Patient Financial Services and CBO at MedStar Health about how the Maryland based health system is creating a simpler billing experience for their patients.

Improving the Patient Billing Experience: ChristianaCare

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 13:00:14 -0400

Hospitals across the country are re-designing their billing process to improve the patient experience. The AHA will share resources designed to help hospitals to implement the AHA Patient Billing Guidelines. In this Members in Action podcast series, Julia Resnick, director of Strategic Initiatives at the AHA is speaking to Rob McMurray, Chief Financial Officer of ChristianaCare in Delaware. They will discuss how ChristianaCare is tailoring their billing approach to better meet the needs of their patients.

The Value of Information Sharing with the FBI and H-ISAC

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:00:19 -0400

In this podcast John Riggi, Senior Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association, talks to two leading experts in the field of cybersecurity, Section Chief David Ring, FBI’s Cyber Engagement and Intelligence Section and Errol Weiss, Chief Security Officer at H-ISAC. David and Errol will discuss the latest ransomware attacks on hospitals as well as the partnership between H-ISAC, AHA, and the FBI to exchange cyber threat intel and to broadcast and amplify warnings.

The Challenges Confronting Rural Communities, Providers and Their Remedies: A Panel Discussion.

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:00:11 -0400

In recognition of National Rural Health Day, John Supplitt, Sr. Director, AHA Rural Health Services is joined by 4 colleagues from AHA each of whom has a unique perspective on pathways to recovery and solutions to the challenges confronting rural health care providers and the communities they serve. Workforce, behavioral health, and maternal health are among the highest priorities of rural communities. Experts offer their insights and solutions with a special focus on the role of the hospital board in leading the effort.

Community Investment Series: How CommonSpirit Health & Trustees Prioritize and Implement Strategy

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 13:00:01 -0400

Community Investment, otherwise known as place-based investment, helps create the social and physical environments that support community health over the long term. In the final episode of the series, Gary Yates, M.D., board of stewardship trustees at CommonSpirit Health discusses the community investment at CommonSpirit Health and the Board of Stewardship Trustees, including directing and championing their work and helping to develop measures and metrics to track progress. Learn more about this series at https://www.aha.org/center/population-health/community-investment-health/conversations

Community Investment Series: How Trinity Health & Trustees Prioritize and Implement Strategy

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:11 -0400

Community Investment, otherwise known as place-based investment, helps create the social and physical environments that support community health over the long term. In the fourth episode of the series Kevin Barnett, board of trustees of Trinity Health discusses Trinity Health and the Board of Trustees' community investment, including directing and championing their work and helping to develop measures and metrics to track progress. Learn more about this series at https://www.aha.org/center/population-health/community-investment-health/conversations

Community Investment Series: Implementing and Connecting to Organizational Mission & Strategy

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 13:00:01 -0400

Community Investment, otherwise known as place-based investment, helps create the social and physical environments that support community health over the long term. In the third episode of the series, Ray Prushnok, executive director of UPMC Center for Social Impact, and Rob Koenig, senior director of strategy and operations at Boston Medical Center discuss both health systems participation in the Accelerating Investments for Healthy Communities initiative and their health system’s work with community partners to create and sustain community investment. Learn more about this series at https://www.aha.org/center/population-health/community-investment-health/conversations

Community Investment Series: How Investment Strategies Align Health Equity, Community and Population

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:00:10 -0400

Community Investment, otherwise known as place-based investment, helps create the social and physical environments that support community health over the long term. In this second episode of the series, Kendra Smith, vice president of community health at Bon Secours Mercy Health, and Sheryl Garland, chief of health impact at VCU Health System discuss the importance of aligning and integrating community investment strategies, authentically engaging the community, investing in local infrastructure and taking a longitudinal approach to this work and its impact. Learn more about this series at https://www.aha.org/center/population-health/community-investment-health/conversations

Community Investment Series: How Health System Executives Can Lead Community Investment for Health

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:00:14 -0400

Community Investment, otherwise known as place-based investment, helps create the social and physical environments that support community health over the long term. In this first episode of the series, Doug Brown, CEO of UMass Memorial Community Hospitals, and chief administrative officer of UMass Memorial Health and Lillian Montoya, president and CEO, CHRISTUS St. Vincent Health discuss how the health systems are investing in their communities to address affordable housing, food insecurity and other priority needs to improve the health of individuals and communities and create sustainable change. Learn more about this series at https://www.aha.org/center/population-health/community-investment-health/conversations

MOMS Collaborative Reduces Disparate Outcomes with Northwell Health

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:00:14 -0400

In this Members in Action podcast featuring maternal and child health efforts, Aisha Syeda, program manager at the AHA is joined by leaders from Northwell Health. Dr. Viktor Klein is the System Director of Quality and Patient Safety for OBGYN at Northwell Health, and also the Vice Chairman of OBGYN at North Shore University Hospital and Dr. Adriann Combs is the Clinical Director and the Associate System Director of Quality and Patient Safety of the OB/GYN Quality & Patient Safety Dept at Northwell. Drs. Klein and Combs will share how launching the Maternal Outcomes and Morbidity or MOMs Collaborative has increased awareness of maternal health complexities, and reduce disparities in maternal care.

Combating Workplace Violence in Health Care by Creating Safer Workplaces

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 13:00:14 -0400

The AHA’s Hospitals Against Violence initiative and the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety partnered to create resources for health and security leaders on how to build safer workplaces. In this podcast, Laura Castellanos AHA associate director and HAV lead, Erik Martin, R.N., chief nursing officer of Norton Children’s Hospital, and Connie Packard, chief of public safety at Boston Medical Center, IAHSS vice president and treasurer, discuss the collaboration, resources and what steps leaders can take to create safety and improve patient care.

HHS Cyber and Risk functions and Health Sector Partnerships Support National Cybersecurity

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 12:00:14 -0400

There are 16 critical infrastructure sectors whose assets, systems, and networks, whether physical or virtual, that are considered so vital to the United States that their incapacitation or destruction would have a debilitating effect on security, national economic security, national public health or safety, or any combination thereof. One of the 16 sectors is the Healthcare and Public Health Sector. In this podcast, John Riggi, senior advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the AHA, speaks with three government officials covering HHS’s cyber threat intelligence and risk components to highlight how HHS and health sector partnerships support national cybersecurity.

Restoring Maternal Mental Health

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 16:49:52 -0400

Joining Aisha Syeda, program manager at the AHA is Dr. Nirmaljit Dhami, the medical director of the inpatient perinatal psychiatry at El Camino Health; and Dr. Alpa Shah, director of the Perinatal Mental Health Clinic at Marshfield Clinic Health System. Each of them will share their work to reduce the prevalence and impact of maternal mental health illness such as depression and anxiety.

[Sponsored] Advancing Systemness Through Strategic Partnering and Scalable Mobilization

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 18:21:32 -0400

In today’s challenging health care environment, patients, employees, caregivers and visitors expect a positive and consistent experience. Yet oftentimes, different service delivery models related to dining and environmental services exist within the same hospital or health system. Systemness, or the ability to provide a consistent experience for all stakeholders, has become a priority, as health care providers look to create environments and processes for greater continuity across their facilities.

Leadership Rounds with Fritz Francois, M.D.

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 18:26:13 -0400

AHA Board Chair Rod Hochman, M.D., is joined by Fritz Francois, M.D., chief medical officer at New York University Langone Health. They discuss emergency preparedness, caregiver resiliency and health equity — all through the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Trauma And Trauma Informed Care

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 14:22:41 -0400

In this podcast, Rebecca Chickey, senior director of field engagement, behavioral health services of the AHA is speaking with Dr. Glenn N. Saxe, about trauma…new traumatic events seem to be happening every day – a treatment for the impact of trauma, call trauma informed care, and opportunities for hospitals to lead in improving access to this important type of behavioral health treatment. Dr. Saxe is director of the NYU Center for Child Welfare Practice Innovation. He also directs the Trauma Systems Therapy Training Center; Professor of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry; Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Child Study Center; New York, NY.

National Threats to the Bio-Economy with SSA Edward You

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 17:47:40 -0400

America’s hospitals and health systems are at risks of attacks that threaten the bio-economy. How do these threats affect patients and citizens and what we can do about it to help reduce risks? We are very privileged to have as our guest today, FBI supervisory special agent Edward You. You, a former colleague of John Riggi, our senior advisor for cybersecurity and risk at the AHA. You is a highly accomplished 17 year veteran of the FBI and one of the nation’s leading experts on threats to the bio-economy. In this podcast, they discuss their work defending hospitals and health systems against high impact ransomware attacks and cyber espionage campaigns.

Leadership Rounds With Mike Slubowski

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 18:20:51 -0400

On this episode, Dr. Hochman discusses the COVID-19 pandemic and public health infrastructure with Mike Slubowski, president and CEO at Trinity Health, a Catholic health system that serves communities in 25 states. Mr. Slubowski relates how Trinity Health has become the “de facto public health system” in its communities during the COVID-19 crisis — vaccinating people, sharing information, responding to social needs, among other activities — and the challenges and opportunities to improve public health and public health coordination. During the conversation, the two health system leaders talk about the tremendous — and sometimes unrecognized — impact that the pandemic is having on the health care workforce. “We have to tell our story . . . to share some of the experiences and bravery that our people are exhibiting,” Slubowski says. “We have to be really clear on those areas of opportunity around infrastructure and why they would be helpful.”

Providing better care to women who experience postpartum hemorrhage, hypertensive emergency

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 18:13:05 -0400

Postpartum hemorrhages occurs in 1-5% of women who have a baby. In this Members in Action podcast, Aisha Syeda, program manager of strategic initiatives at the AHA, is joined by maternal health experts at The Children's Hospital of San Antonio to discuss an obstetrics simulation program, Practicing for Patients, designed to help hospitals conduct simulation drills on their labor and delivery unit to provide better care to women who experience a postpartum hemorrhage or hypertensive emergency during pregnancy.

Opioid Stewardship and Substance Disorders

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 19:38:47 -0400

In this episode, Marie Cleary-Fishman, vice president of clinical quality at the AHA Center for Health Innovation is joined by Dr. Holly Geyer, internal medicine practitioner at the Mayo Clinic, to discuss opioid stewardship and resources the AHA has developed to offer guidance and information to hospitals and health systems on how they can partner with patients, clinicians and communities to address the opioid epidemic.

Refining Care to Improve Maternal Outcomes

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 16:42:26 -0400

In this Members in Action podcast featuring maternal and child health efforts, Aisha Syeda, program manager at the AHA speaks with Dr. Nicole Lamborne, the vice president of clinical operations for women’s services at Virtua Health in New Jersey. Dr. Lamborne will share how Virtua identified gaps in maternal care, and invested in laborists, nurses and evidence-based practices to lower C-section, hypertension, hemorrhage and sepsis rates.

[Sponsored] Eight Strategies to Help Hospital Systems Manage Crises and Overcome Challenges

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 15:55:57 -0400

Many times this requires hospitals and systems to develop new strategies and innovative approaches to deliver care and to maintain “the business” to better manage crises and overcome challenges. Join us for a discussion on eight key strategies that hospitals and systems can start implementing now and hear how Baptist Health Floyd Hospital is applying these strategies when handling crises and managing change, including the value that pathologists can provide.

Seven in Seven: Digital Solutions for Perinatal Care ft. CommonSpirit Health

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 12:53:51 -0400

Alisahah Cole, M.D., System Vice President of Population Health Innovation and Policy, CommonSpirit Health shares the benefits of Docent Health, a consumer engagement and patient navigation technology. Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives, facilitates this conversation.

Seven in Seven: Digital Solutions for Perinatal Care ft. Froedtert & MCW

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 12:53:41 -0400

Joining Priya Bathija, vice president of AHA’s Strategic Initiatives is Kelly Stevenson, Senior Manager at Inception Health. Inception Health is the digital innovation arm of the Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin health network. Stevenson describes how Froedtert uses Babyscripts, a platform designed to better connect expectant mothers with their doctors and resources

Seven in Seven: Digital Solutions for Perinatal Care ft. MedStar Health