Brian Gragnolati

During this National Minority Health Month, I encourage you all to learn more about the health status of racial and ethnic minority populations in the U.S. and focus on diversity, inclusion and health equity to advance health across the nation.
My four decades in health care have taught me there is no substitute for personal connections. Face-to-face conversations with colleagues, patients and caregivers keep us grounded and in touch with what is really going on.
I have hope that the rapidly evolving health care landscape will empower us to deliver better care than ever before and to build a nation of healthier individuals and communities.
I was pleased to take part in a robust discussion about new leadership competencies last week in conjunction with the South by Southwest Festival.
All around us, we see exciting examples of bold thinking and experimentation to better serve patients. Already, many of these new models and methods are achieving positive results.
In recent years, Airbnb, Uber and Netflix have changed the way we vacation, hail a ride and watch movies. These innovative companies are market disruptors – with business models grounded in experimentation to offer consumers a better experience.
We must act now – and together – to protect local access to high-quality, affordable care and empower rural hospitals to thrive as cornerstones of their communities for generations to come.
Health care affordability is a key issue for consumers, hospitals and health systems. While health care leaders have been tackling the issue head on – redesigning care and implementing operational efficiencies – solving this complex challenge will require us all to think differently and more collaboratively.
When our paths cross in the year ahead, I ask you to share what is on your mind, what keeps you up at night, and how we can work together to ensure that all individuals reach their highest potential for health. Â
Affordability is a top priority for the AHA, writes Chair-elect Brian Gragnolati. And we will continue our forward-thinking and leaning-in approach as we engage in a broader conversation on this issue throughout the association and health care field. See insights from AHA’s Sept. 20 forum; the next forum is Dec. 3-4 in Chicago.