Paul Oliver CEO Jim Austin gave us an update on his hospital, followed by an analysis of the challenges faced by the health care industry.

For the fourth consecutive year Paul Oliver has won the Press Ganey Summit Award for having its Emergency Department rank in the top 5% in the country for patient satisfaction.  Based on quarterly patient surveys, this prestigious award this year went to only 24 hospitals.

Jim explained the challenges that the health care industry would have faced no matter who prevailed in our recent election.  The big culprit is the baby boomer generation, whose members are retiring and placing a heavy burden on Medicare.  The traditional health care system is volume-driven, with fees paid on the basis of services performed.  Under this model the sickest 10% of patients--those with chronic health problems--account for 65% of the costs.  Hospitals, physicians and insurers need to move to an integrated care system, with an emphasis on primary care and preventive services.

In the spirited Q & A that followed his presentation Jim addressed a number of issues, including the Betsy Hosick Health & Fitness Club and the steps that Paul Oliver has taken to encourage its own employees to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  We all left feeling fortunate to have a hospital like Paul Oliver available locally.