WSHA staffers spent a lot of time on the road in 2017. Our leaders have been crisscrossing the state to meet with members, hear their stories and learn how we can better help them meet their needs. This week I had the opportunity to do my first official member visit at MultiCare Auburn Medical Center.
I went to learn about a renovation in the emergency department (for the topic of this week’s member feature, in the newsletter below), but I also had a chance to learn about the history of the facility. The Auburn medical center has been a part of MultiCare for five years, and since the acquisition, it’s undergone quite a bit of positive transformation. I was even told about one local patient who had been so displeased with his care before the acquisition that he refused to go back. Later, when he needed an ambulance ride, he found himself back at the place he vowed not to return, only to find it was under new management. He said the difference in his experience was so striking that his viewpoint completely flipped. He ended up becoming a vocal advocate for the medical center, telling others they needed to get their care there as well.
It was exciting to hear about the new changes being made, and how they benefit real people and improve their lives. I’m delighted to say that inspiring stories like these can be found across our state. I’ve been writing weekly features about our member hospitals for nearly three years, and I’m constantly impressed with the work our members are doing, whether they are improving the ED, partnering for services in the larger community or working up new ways to soothe patients during a hospital stay. Hearing and sharing your stories has been one of the best parts of my job, and I look forward to continuing to learn about and share your work.
Sincerely,
Tim Pfarr
WSHA Communications Coordinator
timp@wsha.org
