This article appears in the of HealthLeaders magazine.
Healthcare leaders faced incredible challenges this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has wreaked havoc upon the healthcare industry. The cancellation of elective procedures caused a financial burden on hospitals and health systems and resulted in staff furloughs and layoffs. There were national supply chain shortages, patient surges that overwhelmed hospitals, and patient and staff safety concerns. Rural and underprivileged communities suffered from lack of access to healthcare, while mental health concerns for doctors, nurses, staff, and patients skyrocketed.
To deal with these complexities and keep their organizations afloat, healthcare leaders rose to the occasion by innovating, scrutinizing their balance sheets, and becoming the voice of wellness and safety for their communities. Telehealth and digital health initiatives flourished. Open communication led to enhanced collaboration within organizations, as well as