Redefining the ‘H’

Health care is changing…and hospitals and health systems are transforming to meet the evolving needs of our patients and communities. As I wrote this week in the New York Times, communities will always turn to their local hospital in times of disasters, outbreaks and tragedies. Whether it is the flu or instances of community violence, people will flock to their local hospitals for care. At the same time, hospitals will continue to perform sophisticated surgery, diagnostics and therapeutics at the cutting-edge of medical science. As hospitals meet the needs of today, they are looking to redefine themselves for tomorrow. Without a doubt, hospitals and health systems are leading the greatest transformation in medical history. They are working to provide coordinated and convenient care beyond their four walls; care that is more responsive to patient preferences and community needs than ever before, all with a focus on keeping people well so that they reach their highest potential for health. And they are doing the hard work of advancing affordability and enhancing value. Please join us at AHA’s upcoming Annual Meeting – “Redefining the H” – May 6-9 in Washington, DC, to learn how hospital and health system leaders are using value-based strategies to make health care more affordable for patients and communities.