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Research a health care organization or network that spans several states with in the United States (United Healthcare, Vanguard, Banner Health, etc.). Assess the readiness

Research a health care organization or network that spans several states with in the United States (United Healthcare, Vanguard, Banner Health, etc.). Assess the readiness of the health care organization or network you chose in regard to meeting the health care needs of citizens in the next decade.

Prepare a 1,000-1,250 word paper that presents your assessment and proposes a strategic plan to ensure readiness. Include the following:

1. Describe the health care organization or network.
2. Describe the organization’s overall readiness based on your findings.
3. Prepare a strategic plan to address issues pertaining to network growth, nurse staffing, resource management, and patient satisfaction.
4. Identify any current or potential issues within the organizational culture and discuss how these issues may affect aspects of the strategic plan.
5. Propose a theory or model that could be used to support implementation of the strategic plan for this organization. Explain why this theory or model is best.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Expert Answer and Explanation

Health Organization Evaluation

One of the primary goals of healthcare organizations is providing different patient care and clinical services that are geared to eradicating some of the most common healthcare problems. In the recent few years, numerous technological developments have provided a window of improvement of healthcare organizations in their processes of delivering care to the citizens.

Banner health is one of these organizations that serve as core contributors to the health and wellness of Americans (Kash, 2016). This essay explains some of the elements that show the readiness of Banner health in meeting the demands of citizens in the forthcoming decade. Whereas the organization is faced with different issues that negatively affect the organizational culture and operations, the application of PEST theory in managing the issues can help to align the organization to the right framework for delivering the objectives of care through the next decade.

Description of the Organization

Banner Health is a non-profit healthcare organization in the US that operates in different states offering health services ranging from rehabilitation, primary care, labs, long-term care, hospice, and hospital care. The history of the organization starts in 1999 when Samaritan Health System and Lutheran Health Systems merged to form one entity that operated in 14 states (Kash, 2016).

Besides offering healthcare to populations, the organization offers teaching services, with the main institution being the Banner-University Medical Center, Phoenix. Also, it operates Medicare Advantage, and insurance plan called University Care Advantage and also a family based care called the Banner University Family care.

The organization is impactful in some states more than others, such as in Arizona where it has more than 50,000 employees at present. The senior management of the organization, led by the President and CEO (currently Peter S. Fine), is the initiator of the major decisions throughout the organization (Sharma, Fleischut, & Barchi, 2017).

Readiness of the Organization based on Evaluation

The organization is ready to meet the rising healthcare demands of citizens in the next decade as it has been incorporating programs that allow efficient care in the light of the emerging technology. In 2006, the organization launched a telemonitoring program in which it extended patient care operations beyond the healthcare facilities (Sharma, Fleischut, & Barchi, 2017).

One of the primary effects of this program was saving over 34,000 ICU days and reducing the mortality rates by a significant percentage (Sharma, Fleischut, & Barchi, 2017). Also, telemedicine operations reduced the overall length of stay in facilities and helped to boost the cost control operations. Specifically, organizations under Banner health would now spend less in the patient care operations and hence would optimize the costs of care to patients.

Since the implementation of telemedicine, it is clear that there are many other technological developments that have helped banner health to achieve its current status (Pandian, 2016). Also, it is likely that it will be a pioneer in implementation of even higher forms of technology in primary care such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, and hence it is generally ready to meet the healthcare demands in the coming decade.

Another element that shows the readiness of the organization in meeting the upcoming healthcare demands is the culture of acquisition. In 2014, the organization acquired Casa Grande Medical Center, and in July 2020, it acquired Wyoming Medical Center. These acquisitions are valuable to the organization as they add to the overall productivity through direct injection of skills and resources to the present organization (Kash, 2016).

In 2016, for instance, acquiring 32 of the urgent care facilities in Arizona left the organization almost as a monopoly of healthcare provision in the state, hence limiting the overall competition it faced. A continuous culture of acquisition is likely to make the organization reduce the hindrances of growth such as unhealthy competition and scarcity of skills through the next decade.

The last element that shows the organization’s readiness to meet the healthcare demands in the next decade is the health education affiliation. While most of the healthcare organizations recognize the need for constant research and improvement of operations, very few of them get to the ground to produce results (Cairns, Bollinger, & Garcia, 2017).

Most organizations tend to use knowledge that has been generated by other operators. For banner health, the present partnerships with different learning institutions serve as a core element of growth in the operations through the next decade.

Strategic Plan to address issues within the Organizational Culture

One of the issues that have negatively affected the organizational culture is the presence of data breaches and cyber-attacks. In 2016, banner health was caught in a security breach that exposed information of over three million patients and employees. If not addresses tactically, the issue can lead to massive financial and reputational loss of the organization (Pandian, 2016). The strategic plan to address the issue entails investing in stronger firewalls of data and cyber-attack protection.

Potential and Current Issue within the Culture and their Effect on the Strategic Plan

One of the potential and current issues within the culture that may affect the strategic plan of the organization is the absence of the organization in different states of the US. While Banner health is felt strongly in Arizona and in other states around it, it is evident that there are other organizations that have a greater healthcare command in other states (Soto et al., 2016). The organization needs to open up to investing in other states, as this issue could have numerous negative implications in the strategic plan, such as the presence of strong external competition.

Theory Proposition

The theory of competitive advantage can be used in the implementation of the strategic plan decisions of Banner health at the corporate, local, national, and individual levels. Under this theory, the organization needs to globalize their services and implement optimal utilization of resources for it to sustain its productivity (Soto et al., 2016).

The organization should therefore engage in the resources available in other states to ensure its productivity throughout its ventures. When managed well, the plan could lead Banner health to become a top leader in healthcare provision in the US across all the states, and possibly extend to other countries.

Conclusion

Banner health is ready to face the healthcare demands that are present throughout the next decade as it has embraced technology, learning environments, and the culture of acquisitions. One of the challenges that face the strategic plan is cyber security attacks, and can be controlled by installing higher firewalls for protection. While the organization is strongly felt in Arizona and other few countries, it stands a chance to explore its operations in other US states and become a leader in the provision of healthcare across the globe.

References

Cairns, C. B., Bollinger, K., & Garcia, J. G. (2017). A Transformative Approach to Academic Medicine: The Partnership between the University of Arizona and Banner Health. Academic Medicine, 92(1), 20-22. Doi: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000001345

Kash, B. A. (2016). Interview with Peter S. Fine, FACHE, President and CEO of Banner Health. Journal of Healthcare Management, 61(2), 81. https://www.questia.com/library/journal/1P3-4152913421/interview-with-peter-s-fine-fache-president-and

Pandian, P. S. (2016). An Overview of Telemedicine Technologies for Healthcare Applications. International Journal of Biomedical and Clinical Engineering (IJBCE), 5(2), 29-52. DOI: 10.4018/IJBCE.2016070103

Sharma, R., Fleischut, P., & Barchi, D. (2017). Telemedicine And Its Transformation Of Emergency Care: A Case Study Of One Of The Largest US Integrated Healthcare Delivery Systems. International journal of emergency medicine, 10(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-017-0146-7

Soto, F., Podkameni, D., Chen, A., Graf, E., Glenn, J., & Jaber, J. (2016). Seven Year History of Band Removals at Banner Health Gateway and Estrella, Arizona. Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases, 12(7), S77-S78. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soard.2016.08.119

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Why is it important for a healthcare organization to develop a strategic plan?

In the fast-evolving landscape of healthcare, a strategic plan is not just a luxury but a crucial necessity for any healthcare organization aiming to thrive in the modern world. This article delves into the reasons why developing a strategic plan is of paramount importance in the healthcare sector.

Introduction

Healthcare organizations are complex entities, operating within a dynamic environment influenced by technological advancements, changing patient needs, regulatory shifts, and more. Developing a strategic plan offers a roadmap for healthcare providers to navigate these challenges and seize opportunities.

Understanding Strategic Planning in Healthcare

Strategic planning involves a systematic process of defining an organization’s vision, mission, goals, and the strategies to achieve them. In the context of healthcare, a strategic plan goes beyond financial considerations; it encompasses patient care, quality improvement, operational efficiency, and growth strategies.

Navigating Uncertainties with a Clear Direction

In an ever-changing healthcare landscape, uncertainties are the norm. A well-crafted strategic plan provides a clear direction that guides decision-making during turbulent times, ensuring the organization remains focused and adaptable.

Optimizing Resource Allocation for Efficient Care

Healthcare resources are often limited and need to be allocated efficiently. A strategic plan helps healthcare organizations prioritize investments, allocate budgets, and utilize resources where they are needed most, ultimately leading to improved patient care and operational excellence.

Aligning Stakeholders and Teams for Cohesive Action

A healthcare organization’s success hinges on the collaboration of various stakeholders and teams. A strategic plan fosters alignment by articulating shared objectives, thus promoting cohesive action and enhancing communication among departments.

Embracing Technological Advancements

The healthcare sector is embracing technology at an unprecedented pace. A strategic plan can outline how to leverage innovations like telemedicine, electronic health records, and AI-driven diagnostics to enhance patient experiences and outcomes.

Adapting to Regulatory and Industry Changes

Healthcare is subject to evolving regulations and industry trends. A strategic plan helps organizations stay compliant and adaptable by addressing potential changes proactively, mitigating risks, and seizing new opportunities.

Enhancing Patient-Centered Care

Patient-centered care is the cornerstone of any healthcare organization. A strategic plan enables providers to design patient-centric approaches, improve patient satisfaction, and deliver personalized healthcare services that cater to individual needs.

Forecasting and Mitigating Potential Challenges

Anticipating challenges is crucial in healthcare. A strategic plan identifies potential roadblocks and devises contingency plans to mitigate their impact, fostering resilience and maintaining continuity of care.

Case Study: Successful Implementation of a Healthcare Strategic Plan

An illustrative case study showcases how a healthcare organization implemented a strategic plan, leading to enhanced patient outcomes, optimized operations, and increased community engagement.

How to Develop an Effective Healthcare Strategic Plan

Creating a robust healthcare strategic plan involves gathering insights, setting realistic goals, involving key stakeholders, and monitoring progress. The process guides organizations in making informed decisions aligned with their long-term vision.

Benefits of a Well-Formulated Healthcare Strategic Plan

The benefits of a well-structured strategic plan extend beyond the organization itself. It positively impacts patient satisfaction, employee morale, stakeholder trust, and even contributes to the overall betterment of the healthcare ecosystem.

Championing Organizational Growth and Sustainability

A strategic plan serves as a growth blueprint, outlining how an organization intends to expand services, reach new patient populations, and foster financial sustainability while maintaining the highest standards of care.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving realm of healthcare, a strategic plan is not just a document but a guiding light that illuminates the path to success. By providing direction, aligning stakeholders, embracing innovation, and enhancing patient care, a healthcare organization can navigate uncertainties and achieve its full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What exactly is a healthcare strategic plan?

A1: A healthcare strategic plan is a comprehensive blueprint that outlines an organization’s vision, mission, goals, and strategies to achieve them within the healthcare sector.

Q2: How does a strategic plan help in adapting to technological advancements?

A2: A strategic plan can identify ways to integrate and leverage technology to enhance patient care, streamline operations, and improve overall healthcare delivery.

Q3: What role does patient-centered care play in a healthcare strategic plan?

A3: Patient-centered care is a pivotal component of a strategic plan, aiming to improve patient satisfaction, outcomes, and experiences by tailoring healthcare services to individual needs.

Q4: Can a healthcare strategic plan help in regulatory compliance?

A4: Absolutely. A well-designed strategic plan takes into account regulatory changes and provides a roadmap for ensuring compliance while adapting to shifting regulations.

Q5: How does a strategic plan contribute to organizational sustainability?

A5: A strategic plan outlines growth strategies, resource allocation, and operational efficiencies that contribute to an organization’s long-term sustainability and success.

What are examples of strategic goals in healthcare?

1. Improve Patient Outcomes: Enhance the overall health and well-being of patients by implementing evidence-based practices and personalized treatment plans.
2. Enhance Patient Experience: Focus on creating a positive and patient-centered care environment, aiming to improve satisfaction and comfort during their healthcare journey.
3. Increase Access to Care: Develop initiatives to ensure that healthcare services are accessible to a wider range of individuals, including underserved communities and rural populations.
4. Optimize Operational Efficiency: Streamline administrative processes, reduce wait times, and minimize resource wastage to improve the efficiency of healthcare delivery.
5. Embrace Technological Innovation: Integrate advanced technologies such as telemedicine, electronic health records (EHR), and AI-driven diagnostics to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment options.
6. Enhance Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work environment, provide professional development opportunities, and ensure healthcare staff are motivated and satisfied in their roles.
7. Community Outreach and Education: Engage in educational programs and community initiatives to raise awareness about health issues, preventive measures, and healthy lifestyles.
8. Achieve Regulatory Compliance: Develop strategies to stay compliant with evolving healthcare regulations and standards, ensuring patient safety and data security.
9. Increase Care Coordination: Improve communication and collaboration among different healthcare providers and departments to ensure seamless care transitions for patients.
10. Invest in Research and Development: Allocate resources to medical research, clinical trials, and innovative medical technologies to advance medical knowledge and treatment options.
11. Reduce Healthcare Disparities: Implement strategies to address healthcare inequalities among different demographic groups, providing equitable access to quality care.
12. Financial Sustainability: Develop a sustainable financial model that balances providing high-quality care with maintaining fiscal responsibility and stability.
13. Expand Service Offerings: Introduce new specialties, treatments, or services that align with patient needs and enhance the organization’s portfolio.
14. Improve Population Health: Focus on preventive measures and public health initiatives to improve the overall health of the community and reduce the burden of chronic diseases.
15. Partnerships and Collaborations: Forge partnerships with other healthcare providers, institutions, or community organizations to enhance resources, knowledge sharing, and care capabilities.

How are benchmarks used in the evaluation of health care quality provide an example of using an evaluation in healthcare quality review?

Benchmarks play a vital role in evaluating healthcare quality by providing a standard against which an organization’s performance can be measured. They help healthcare providers assess how well they are delivering care, identify areas for improvement, and compare their performance to industry standards or best practices. Here’s an example of how benchmarks are used in a healthcare quality review:

Example: Hospital Readmission Rates

Imagine a hospital is aiming to evaluate the quality of its patient care, specifically focusing on readmission rates. A readmission occurs when a patient is discharged from the hospital and then returns within a certain period for related issues. The hospital wants to determine whether its readmission rates are higher or lower than expected based on industry benchmarks.

1. Setting the Benchmark: The hospital begins by identifying the benchmark for readmission rates. This might involve researching national or regional averages for readmissions within a specific timeframe (e.g., 30 days after discharge) for similar medical conditions.
2. Data Collection: The hospital collects data on readmission rates for various medical conditions over a specific time period. They identify the number of patients who were readmitted and the reasons for readmission.
3. Calculation and Comparison: The hospital calculates its own readmission rates for the specified conditions and time period. They compare these rates to the benchmark they identified earlier. If the hospital’s readmission rates are significantly higher than the benchmark, it indicates a potential issue with the quality of care provided.
4. Identifying Factors: The hospital further investigates to understand the reasons behind the higher readmission rates. They might analyze factors such as patient education, post-discharge follow-up procedures, medication adherence, and coordination of care.
5. Quality Improvement: Based on the analysis, the hospital develops targeted strategies to address the identified issues. For instance, they might enhance patient education on self-care after discharge, implement better communication between care teams, or improve discharge planning to ensure a smooth transition to outpatient care.
6. Implementation and Monitoring: The hospital puts these strategies into action and closely monitors readmission rates over the subsequent months. They assess whether the implemented changes lead to a reduction in readmissions.
7. Continuous Assessment: The hospital continues to track readmission rates and compare them against the benchmark on an ongoing basis. If improvements are observed, it indicates that the quality improvement initiatives are effective.

HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare is a leading American healthcare services provider that operates a vast network of hospitals, outpatient centers, and other medical facilities. With a strong presence across the United States, HCA Healthcare plays a significant role in delivering high-quality medical services to communities and individuals.

Founded in 1968, HCA Healthcare has grown to become one of the largest and most well-established healthcare organizations in the country. The acronym “HCA” stands for “Hospital Corporation of America,” reflecting its origins as a corporation focused on hospital management and operations.

Key Features of HCA Healthcare:

1. Extensive Network: HCA Healthcare operates numerous hospitals and healthcare facilities in various states, providing a comprehensive range of medical services, including acute care, surgery, emergency care, maternity care, and specialized treatments.
2. Commitment to Quality: HCA Healthcare places a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality patient care. They strive to maintain clinical excellence, patient safety, and positive outcomes through evidence-based practices and continuous improvement efforts.
3. Medical Specialties: The organization covers a wide spectrum of medical specialties, catering to the diverse healthcare needs of patients. These specialties encompass cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, pediatrics, and more.
4. Advanced Technologies: HCA Healthcare is at the forefront of adopting and implementing advanced medical technologies to enhance diagnostic accuracy, treatment effectiveness, and patient experiences. This includes telemedicine, robotic-assisted surgery, and cutting-edge medical equipment.
5. Community Engagement: HCA Healthcare is committed to actively engaging with the communities it serves. The organization often participates in health education programs, wellness initiatives, and community events to promote better health and well-being.
6. Skilled Healthcare Professionals: HCA Healthcare employs a diverse team of skilled healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, technicians, and administrative staff. Their expertise contributes to the delivery of comprehensive and compassionate care.
7. Research and Innovation: The organization supports research and innovation within the medical field, collaborating with academic institutions and medical researchers to advance medical knowledge, treatments, and patient care approaches.
8. Patient-Centered Approach: HCA Healthcare places patients at the center of its operations. The organization aims to provide personalized care tailored to individual patient needs, preferences, and cultural backgrounds.

HCA Healthcare’s enduring commitment to healthcare excellence and its expansive network make it a significant player in the American healthcare landscape. As it continues to evolve and adapt to changing medical practices and patient demands, HCA Healthcare remains dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality medical services to improve the lives of individuals and communities.

How can nurses contribute to improved patient care within the organizations that nurses work?

Nurses play a pivotal role in improving patient care within the organizations they work for. Their expertise, compassion, and direct patient interaction position them as essential contributors to enhancing healthcare outcomes. Here are some ways nurses can contribute to improved patient care within their organizations:

1. Patient Advocacy: Nurses advocate for patients’ rights and needs, ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed. They act as a bridge between patients and the healthcare team, ensuring effective communication and personalized care.
2. Clinical Expertise: With their deep knowledge and training, nurses provide skilled clinical care, administer medications, monitor patients’ vital signs, and carry out medical procedures accurately. Their competence contributes to patient safety and optimal recovery.
3. Care Coordination: Nurses coordinate patient care across different departments, ensuring a seamless and efficient healthcare journey. They collaborate with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic approach to treatment.
4. Patient Education: Nurses educate patients and their families about medical conditions, treatment plans, medications, and self-care practices. This empowers patients to actively participate in their own care, leading to better health outcomes.
5. Preventive Care: Nurses emphasize preventive measures and health promotion strategies. They educate patients about healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and early detection, ultimately reducing the risk of complications.
6. Medication Management: Nurses are responsible for administering medications correctly and monitoring their effects. Their attention to detail helps prevent medication errors and adverse reactions, promoting patient safety.
7. Infection Control: Nurses adhere to strict infection control protocols, preventing the spread of infections within healthcare settings. Their diligence safeguards both patients and healthcare workers.
8. Emotional Support: Nurses provide emotional support and comfort to patients and their families during challenging times. Their empathy and compassionate presence contribute to improved patient experiences.
9. Critical Thinking: Nurses are skilled in critical thinking and problem-solving. They assess patients’ conditions, identify changes or complications, and take prompt action to ensure timely interventions.
10. Patient Safety Advocacy: Nurses contribute to creating a culture of safety within their organizations. They report safety concerns, participate in quality improvement initiatives, and help implement best practices to prevent medical errors.
11. Documentation: Nurses maintain accurate and detailed patient records, ensuring that vital information is accessible to the healthcare team. Proper documentation supports continuity of care and informed decision-making.
12. Communication: Nurses facilitate effective communication between patients, families, and the healthcare team. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding the patient’s care plan.
13. Continuous Learning: Nurses engage in ongoing professional development to stay updated on the latest medical practices and advancements. Their commitment to learning ensures that they provide the most up-to-date and evidence-based care.
14. Crisis Management: Nurses are trained to handle emergencies and critical situations. Their quick response and calm demeanor contribute to stabilizing patients and preventing adverse outcomes.
15. Feedback and Collaboration: Nurses actively participate in healthcare team meetings, offering insights and feedback on patient care strategies. Their collaboration with other professionals leads to well-rounded care plans.

By actively engaging in these roles, nurses significantly impact the quality of patient care within their organizations. Their contributions go beyond clinical tasks, encompassing advocacy, communication, and holistic support to create positive and lasting healthcare experiences.