Discover WellSpan Health’s Dedication to Quality Care and Community Engagement | AHA Insights

Welcome to the Advancing Health podcast! Today, we’re exploring how WellSpan Health, honored with the 2024 Quest for Quality Prize by the American Hospital Association, continues to enhance patient care across 12 counties in Pennsylvania. Our host, Dr. Mindy Estes, former president and CEO of Saint Luke’s Health System, leads this insightful discussion.

Dr. Estes speaks with Dr. Roxanna Gapstur, the CEO of WellSpan Health since January 2019. Dr. Gapstur has more than 25 years of experience in healthcare leadership, spanning various settings from practices to academic institutions. Her expertise in strategic planning has significantly impacted WellSpan’s success.

Dr. Estes kicks off the conversation by asking Dr. Gapstur about WellSpan Health’s mission and how it operates. Dr. Gapstur explains that WellSpan is an integrated healthcare system serving around 1.5 million people, with nine hospitals and a strong focus on community health.

As the pandemic hit in 2019, WellSpan was praised for maintaining high-quality care. Dr. Estes questions Dr. Gapstur on the key factors behind this success during challenging times. Dr. Gapstur mentions that one of their core values is teamwork. The organization adapted quickly to the rapidly changing environment, prioritizing the well-being of their staff and maintaining innovation. They even manufactured their own N95 masks to meet urgent needs.

Dr. Estes highlights the importance of agility in healthcare. Dr. Gapstur confirms that they’ve kept this adaptive mindset post-pandemic, efficiently managing operations while planning for the future. They’ve maintained a dual focus on daily patient care and long-term strategies, which helps tackle challenges effectively.

A significant point of pride for WellSpan has been their successful retention of nursing staff during the pandemic. Dr. Gapstur attributes this to several strategies focused on team well-being, including peer support and real-time coaching, which fostered a strong support system among staff.

Next, they touch on innovations in nursing, like virtual nursing, which enhances nurses’ ability to focus on patients by streamlining documentation. Daily tiered huddles improve communication and problem-solving across the organization, allowing issues to be addressed swiftly.

Dr. Gapstur also emphasizes WellSpan’s commitment to serving diverse communities, noting their strong connection with local populations, including the Amish community. They utilize cultural liaisons to ensure their services are respectful and effective for everyone.

Another pressing issue discussed is gun violence. Dr. Gapstur shares WellSpan’s proactive approach in collaboration with local police and community organizations to address this serious problem, highlighting the success of their credible messenger program in reducing gun violence incidents.

Looking ahead, Dr. Gapstur sees innovation as a top priority for WellSpan. They are actively exploring how to leverage technology, including artificial intelligence, to improve healthcare delivery and enhance patient outcomes.

As the conversation wraps up, Dr. Estes commends Dr. Gapstur’s leadership and the significant changes happening at WellSpan Health. The episode showcases the dedication to continuous improvement and community engagement in healthcare.

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