An aging population and rising rates of chronic illness meant providers had to increasingly navigate clinical care and coordination for more complex patients. At the same time, reimbursements were declining, which added to the significant margin pressure hospitals were already experiencing.
The challenges facing hospitals and health systems were already significant, coupled with a lack of collective international pandemic preparedness. Enter COVID-19 — a virus that seemed to stress-test healthcare’s vulnerabilities. Older populations, those with chronic illnesses and those in communities with historically limited access to care would experience higher rates of death and hospitalization. The pandemic stretched the healthcare supply chain and put immense strain on frontline staff. Providers would rise to the challenge, rolling out virtual care innovations, expanding capacity and implementing new operational models at unprecedented speed. While COVID-19 tested our healthcare system’s vulnerabilities, the pandemic response showed its strengths and potential. Both the toll of the pandemic and the power of the industry’s response will shape healthcare’s future.
To discuss health systems’ response to COVID-19, lessons learned, and the industry’s future, Becker’s Hospital Review and Cardinal Health convened a group of healthcare leaders virtually in spring of 2021 to facilitate best practice and idea sharing. Leaders discussed their organizations’ initial responses to the pandemic and the impact on their strategies going forward. For example, many leaders stressed that the effects of pausing elective procedures are still being felt by their facilities today. Additionally, virtual care was discussed—although this was a necessary response to the early days of COVID-19, many leaders shared strong opinions about its potential continuance. Other themes from the call include how we can prepare for the next big disruption and how to look for new ways to approach partnerships.
For a full recap of the discussion, read our “Health system transformation in the pandemic years” whitepaper available on our supply chain center.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
