<strong>Emerson</strong>’s strategy:an overview<strong>Emerson</strong> <strong>Hospital</strong> is beginning its second century with a clear vision,says Christine Schuster, president and CEO. “We intend to be theregional provider of choice for those living in the 25 towns we serve,”says Ms. Schuster.Growth is a theme in 2012. This has been the case since <strong>Emerson</strong>was established in 1911. “<strong>Emerson</strong> will continue to expand beyondits current service area,” Ms. Schuster notes. “Our biggest growthin patients is west of the hospital, where several <strong>Emerson</strong>-affiliatedpractices recently have expanded.”The rest of the vision for <strong>Emerson</strong> includes remaining independent.“At least in the short term, our goal is to remain independent,” saysMs. Schuster. “Given the changes in the marketplace and the environment,we will continue to evaluate that, in conjunction with ourmedical staff, board and management team.”Clinical collaborations will expandIndeed, the healthcare marketplace is being redefined as a result ofconsolidation; no hospital can remain independent without a carefullyconsidered strategy. <strong>Emerson</strong>’s strategy includes a commitment tostrengthening the hospital’s clinical collaborations with partners suchas Massachusetts General <strong>Hospital</strong>, Brigham and Women’s <strong>Hospital</strong>and Lahey Clinic.For example, the longstanding relationship with Mass General toprovide radiation oncology at <strong>Emerson</strong>’s Bethke Cancer Center recentlyexpanded. “This successful relationship has evolved to becomea comprehensive Mass General Cancer Center that includes medicaloncology,” says Ms. Schuster. “This is another example of how webring the best of Boston right here, into the community.”In addition, <strong>Emerson</strong>’s Surgical Weight Loss Program recently broughtMass General surgical expertise to <strong>Emerson</strong>. Mass General physiciansalso provide pediatric specialty care at <strong>Emerson</strong>’s Center for SpecialtyCare in Concord, and a Mass General neonatologist directs <strong>Emerson</strong>’sSpecial Care Nursery. Three Brigham and Women’s maternal-fetalmedicine specialists consult on all high-risk pregnancies. Joint programswith Lahey Clinic include neurosurgery, urology and pain management.“We consider it a huge compliment, as well as a reflectionon <strong>Emerson</strong>’s overall quality, that places like Mass General, Brighamand Women’s and Lahey want to come here,” Ms. Schuster adds.Preparations are underway for national healthcare reformNational healthcare reform requires that physicians and hospitals worktogether to coordinate care. “Throughout last summer and fall, weheld planning summits with each of our major primary care groups andspecialists to plan how we can most effectively work together,” saysMs. Schuster. “This includes the transitions of care when individualsleave the hospital and either go home or to a rehabilitation center.”“I believe most people understand that they need to have a high-quality hospitalclose to home,” says Christine Schuster, president and CEO.Changes in reimbursement will continue for hospitals and physicians.“Working together, we will continue the legacy of delivering quality,compassionate care to our patients. Our strategy will include participatingin an accountable care organization — where providers coordinatecare for a defined population of patients — and bundled paymentapproaches to managing care delivery. The hospital’s success and thatof our affiliated physicians are inextricably tied.”<strong>Emerson</strong> also is installing software and other tools that will assist cliniciansin making care more efficient, such as following up with patientswho are newly diagnosed with diabetes. “This allows us to makeongoing clinical changes, which is essential to being successful in thenew world order,” Ms. Schuster explains. So are quality, patientsafety and efficiency. In 2011, <strong>Emerson</strong> staff reduced the hospital’salready low infection rates and adopted Lean methodology — a wayto streamline processes — to speed up admissions for those who comethrough the hospital’s Emergency Department.Information technology supports all of these processes. <strong>Emerson</strong> hasinvested in impressive electronic systems that enable prescribing,ordering and administering medications. “Coming next is the healthinformation exchange, which will allow the sharing of confidentialinformation among an individual’s primary care physician, specialistand <strong>Emerson</strong>,” Ms. Schuster explains. “This will help us provide themost comprehensive, collaborative care possible while avoiding theduplication of tests — a proven way to address healthcare costs.”As with any systemic change, there are challenges ahead, she notes.“I believe most people understand that they need to have a high-qualityhospital close to home. The community’s continued support willensure that <strong>Emerson</strong> thrives well into its second century.”8
health & wellness classesVisit www.emersonhealthyliving.org to register online. Call 978-287-3777 to register or for more information.Some classes are ongoing; you can join in at any time.Classes are located at <strong>Emerson</strong> <strong>Hospital</strong>’s new Integrative Health & Wellness Center, 310 Baker Ave Ext, Concord(unless otherwise noted).PREPARE FOR SURGERY, HEAL FASTER WORKSHOPPrepare for an upcoming surgical or medicalprocedure: feel calmer, have less pain and fewercomplications and recover sooner. Please callto arrange a convenient, private workshop.$95 includes book/relaxation CDOne surgery companion may attend for free.PRENATAL YOGA for a healthier pregnancyMixed-level yoga class teaches posturalstrengthening, safe stretching, breathing andrelaxation techniques. No previous yoga experiencerequired. Led by Michele O’Toole, RN,certified prenatal yoga instructor.$85 for a six-week session beginning January16, March 12 or May 7; classes are Monday7:00-8:30 pmYOGA & MEDITATIONReduce stress and tension, improve flexibility and strength and learnbreathing techniques for emotional balance. Wear loose, comfortableclothing and bring a yoga mat and a sturdy blanket. Not for expectantmothers. Taught by Pam Vlahakis, registered yoga teacher.$98 for a seven-week session beginning January 16, March 12 or May 7;classes are Monday 5:30-6:45 pmGENTLE YOGAFor beginners and experienced practitionerswho wish to review postures with a beginner’smind. Stretch and tone muscles, releasechronic tension and improve balance and flexibility.Bring a yoga mat. Not suitable for expectantmothers. Taught by Nancy Dorenfeld,RYT, Kripalu-certified instructor.$98 for each seven-week session beginningJanuary 20, March 9 or April 27; classes areFriday, 9:30-10:45 amTAI CHITai chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, is practiced to achieve therapeuticbenefits such as reduced pain and to promote balance and overallstrength. The instructor is Ming Wu, PhD.$98 for an eight-week sessionBeginner Level: Thursdays, 6:00-7:00 pmSession begins January 19, March 15 or May 10Intermediate/Advanced Level: Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 amSession begins January 18, March 14 or May 9Classes continued on next page
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