Kevin Fleming serves as Chief Operating Officer of Clinical Program Services for Providence.
Kevin will participate in the panel "The Best Investments and Strategies to Maximize Supply Chain" at Becker's Hospital Review 11th Annual Meeting. As part of an ongoing series, Becker's is talking to healthcare leaders who plan to speak at the conference, which will take place virtually from May 10-27th.
To learn more about the conference and Kevin's session, click here.
Question: Share one change brought on by the coronavirus pandemic that you’d like to see stick, especially in healthcare?
Kevin Fleming: The change that I have been most encouraged by is the willingness and desire to connect in new ways. Whether through the pursuit of new tools to bring teammates together or through the development of new methods to care for our patients and communities, such as remote patient monitoring of over 16,000 COVID-19 patients since March, innovation has become a driving force. In all of 2019, Providence had 70,000 telehealth encounters. But, by the end of February 2021, we will exceed 2 million telehealth visits over the previous 12 months with a monthly run rate above 202,000 as of January. I believe that the unique imperative for new ways to connect with each other and the patients and families that we serve will drive stronger engagement and better outcomes, long after the COVID pandemic has passed.
Q: What is one essential trait leaders need to lead effectively in healthcare today?
KF: Now, more than ever, I think it is so important for leaders to be strong listeners. Whether we are listening to those we work with, those that we work for, or those what we have the honor to care for, intentional listening can be such a differentiator. As the types of connections we have with each other have changed so much, leaders should strive to make sure that everyone with whom they connect is truly heard. This can open the door to compassionate and meaningful connections, which are essential to lasting and productive relationships.
Q: What would you like to see as the defining theme of 2021 for your industry?
KF: It seems like a theme for 2021 will be transformation. Health care organizations are adapting to new realities, new expectations, and new imperatives to reach those that they serve. I’ve been so excited by the steps that Providence has been taking to engage our caregivers, our clinicians, and our communities in stronger and more meaningful ways. From digital tools to equitable COVID vaccination outreach to re-imagined care delivery, I’m excited to see how these and so many other new, transformative ideas positively impact the health of our communities.