Albert Einstein has been quoted comparing life to riding a bicycle. “In order to stay upright, you must keep moving forward,” he once quipped. This pearl of wisdom certainly could apply to the business world today.
An organization moves forward by being anticipatory, recognizing trends, understanding data and using it effectively, and having the courage to act. This last trait, having the courage to act, is the difference between moving forward and standing still.
Constant change
One hundred years ago, a group of concerned citizens in Akron had the courage to understand that a new hospital was desperately needed. They raised money by selling shares to the public and in 1914 The Peoples Hospital was established, embracing a mission of care for all.
Today, that organization, borne by people addressing a serious community need, is known as Akron General Health System, an essential community asset and major regional employer. It is an organization that has successfully met the test of time.
While success and longevity are indelible sources of pride, Einstein’s wisdom echoes ever stronger. For success to be sustained, organizational inertia is not an option.
Change is the only constant in the field of health care. Increasing governmental regulation, differing reimbursement models, advancing technology and complex disease processes are among the factors faced by health care systems across the country. Having the ability to look around the next curve and acquiring the “view from 50,000 feet” by recognizing trends and effectively using data is essential if health systems are to thrive in this ever-changing environment. Moreover, having the courage to take action is essential.
Cleveland Clinic partnership
Akron General Health System is not standing still, but moving forward. Having carefully studied the national health care landscape and recognizing the need to find a larger organization with which to partner, Akron General’s board of directors launched an intensive and exhaustive search aimed at identifying the best, highest-quality health care organization that would elevate the level of health care in the region. From 19 potential partners, one was chosen — Cleveland Clinic.
Our neighbor to the north, Cleveland Clinic not only offers the organizational benefit of significant economies of scale but it has a worldwide reputation for innovation and care of the highest quality, and it offers levels of clinical expertise not before available in Summit County. This partnership, in which Cleveland Clinic becomes a minority owner of Akron General, ensures Akron General’s continuing mission of service that began 100 years ago.
Meeting the test of time for 100 years certainly is a milestone in the history of any organization. Securing its next century of service is truly an achievement to be sought and celebrated. Akron General is proud to have accomplished both.
