2012 & The Business of Healthcare

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Attention healthcare providers across the continuum of care . . . this column is for you. We thought it would be appropriate to share the intent, as well as give you a preview of what we will be discussing in this space over the next 12 months.

We all know that the term healthcare is getting broader and broader and means different things to different people. But whether you are managing a hospital, a healthcare system, a medical office building, a rehabilitation facility or a senior living community, your challenges in terms delivery of care are pretty much the same. Therefore our goal here is to discuss topics that are relevant no matter where you fall on the continuum of care.

• What exactly is an ACO? How can I establish and maintain collaborative care? How do I make care the number one priority in a fast-paced environment?

• Although the employees may have different responsibilities and the patients and/or residents may have different needs, the desire for executives to provide a superior level of care and customer experience remains the same. Customer service in the healthcare industry - really!

• And what about safety and security? Not only as it relates to patients and residents, but to staff members as well. Patients are always at the forefront of your mind, but what about your most valuable resources? Are they protected from the environment in which they work? We'll talk about that.

• Millions of people will travel through your facilities this year. No one wants to be a number, but at some point, aren't we all? How can we make people feel like unique individuals?

• You handle emergencies on a daily basis, but are you prepared for an emergency that would affect the way you provide care for others? Violence, weather and who knows what else. Are you ready?

• Protecting all of your assets . . . not only people, but stuff. The stuff that allows you to do your job every day. What are the most effective asset-protection solutions?

• Everyone is mobile. How are you addressing the need for mobility with efficient means of communication?

These are just some of the questions and thoughts we will attempt to answer and address in 2012. These are just our thoughts. We are sure you have valuable input and feedback as well. Share this with your colleagues and use it as a forum to drive strategic and tactical discussions on how you can improve the way you provide superior healthcare services.

We hope you come back to this space often for a little perspective on the business of healthcare.

Mike MacLeod
Status Solutions, President

Mike MacLeod has more than 25 years experience with attracting and retaining key personnel and strategic partners. His expertise lies in building and broadening indirect channels and managing major accounts. He has vast experience conceiving and establishing new product sets (vertical and horizontal) and bringing them successfully to market ahead of the competition. Mike is an innovative entrepreneur who has led successful technology companies in the conception and launching of new programs, markets and distribution initiatives. His core belief is that customer satisfaction is the top priority and that customer needs should drive any business.