|
Meeting the Challenge
William D. PetasnickPresident and CEO, Froedtert Hospital
As the national healthcare reform effort unfolds, this critical endeavor continues to draw our attention. In the past several months, discussions in Washington have invoked vigorous debate around the country. Sentiments in favor of healthcare reform continue, as does debate about how to achieve it. Meanwhile, we have stayed focused on our mission.
In these challenging times, health care is not immune from pressures facing families, businesses and government. Our focus has helped us meet the current challenge and position our organization for the future.
Last year, our senior leadership team developed and deployed a three-part strategy to respond to economic challenges. This strategy included strengthening our operating performance, growing strategically and managing our balance sheet to secure capital for present and future needs.
We took immediate measures to control our costs. These measures helped us stabilize our financial base and our workforce. Providing a stable and positive work environment helped us attract and retain the exceptional staff we need to provide an excellent care environment for our patients and generate the innovative solutions we need to succeed.
Our staff responded to the economic challenge in many ways, including offering suggestions for our “Bright Ideas” campaign. The campaign generated hundreds of ideas and saved thousands of dollars (and counting). More important, it reinforced our commitment to innovation, communication and new solutions.
Patients continue to affirm our work by choosing Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin. While fewer patients in our area sought care this year compared to last, the number of patients choosing us for inpatient care actually grew, bucking the trend.
We are honored by our patients’ trust and will continue to stay focused and work hard to meet expectations.
Source: Froedtert Today Date: September 2009 |