Chair File: Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Safety in Health Care

Apr 01, 2024 - 11:06 AM by
Joanne M. Conroy, M.D., Chair, American Hospital Association
Joanne M. Conroy M.D. Chairperson's File 900x400 as of 2-26-24

 

Fostering a culture of innovation and safety that prioritizes communication and teamwork to deliver safe, world-class care to patients and also protects health care workers is a top priority at hospitals and health systems throughout the United States. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a new era of innovation and safety in health care. Hospital and health system teams responded and adapted nimbly during the pandemic — developing and deploying innovative processes and creating new tools and technologies to better serve their patients, communities and care teams.

Health care innovation is accelerating even more rapidly now with many exciting developments in research and implementation of cutting-edge treatments, including cancer therapies and transplantation advances; digital technologies that connect patients and providers to monitor medications and vital signs; and technology to better manage chronic conditions using data analytics that support clinical decision-making and promote preventive care. There is more on the horizon as science advances innovation.

And everyone is talking about artificial intelligence and its potential applications in health care. Be sure to check out my recent conversation on harnessing the power of AI in health care with Janice Nevin, M.D., president and CEO of ChristianaCare. 

AHA’s “Telling the Hospital Story” initiative highlights more examples of innovation led by hospitals and health systems. At Dartmouth Health, I couldn’t be prouder of how we are using technology to improve patient care at the bedside in our new patient pavilion. Here’s a story about how we’re using robots to help deliver medications. It’s been a game changer. I encourage you to share your story so we can all learn from each other.

Health care innovation generates an incredible amount of buzz and excitement. But even more exciting are the end results: delivering safe, high-quality, person-centered care; improving health outcomes and the health of individuals and communities; and supporting the health care workforce. 

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