From harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to tackling ongoing workforce shortages in healthcare, Bob Garrett, CEO of Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health, is optimistic about the health system's future.
Mr. Garrett has been in his role as CEO nearly six years, and he has been with both the system and Hackensack (N.J.) University Medical Center for more than 40. He also served as co-CEO of Hackensack Meridian Health for nearly three years prior to his current role.
In 2016, Hackensack University Health Network merged with Neptune, N.J.-based Meridian Health, creating Hackensack Meridian Health.
Becker's connected with Mr. Garrett to talk about his more than four decades with Hackensack and how being a passionate leader who understands the ins and outs of healthcare can help lead a system to success.
Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What has been your biggest learning curve as a leader at Hackensack, and how has it helped you grow as a leader?
Bob Garrett: Over the past four decades working in the healthcare industry, the importance of building strong, collaborative relationships with team members at all levels of the organization has become clear. This is essential to create an environment that fosters a positive culture based on innovation, equity and inclusion.
As a leader, it's crucial to listen to and learn from others and to create an atmosphere of collaboration and trust. This has helped me become a more effective leader who inspires and motivates others to achieve our shared goals.
Q: How would you describe your leadership style? What qualities make for a strong healthcare CEO?
BG: I believe in creating a shared vision through teamwork, cooperation and shared responsibility and empowering my team to deliver our vision. It's vital that everyone at all levels feel invested in our mission to transform healthcare and be recognized as a leader of positive change.
I also believe that strong healthcare executives need to be passionate about their work, have a deep understanding of the healthcare industry, and be able to think strategically and make sound decisions in the face of often quite difficult and complex circumstances.
Q: What is the largest challenge facing the healthcare industry right now? What strategies has Hackensack Meridian Health implemented to address this challenge?
BG: The healthcare industry's biggest challenge is addressing workforce shortages from the physician and nurse perspective. Hackensack Meridian Health tackles this by investing in workforce development through the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, ensuring that the next generation of physicians stays in New Jersey and practices in our hospitals.
We also have strong partnerships with nursing schools to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified, compassionate nurses. Our new loan forgiveness program with EdAssist and tuition reimbursement attracts and retains those in selected roles, such as BSNs and RTs, by alleviating student loan burdens and the cost of tuition. We have also created apprenticeship programs for entry-level roles and opportunities for team members to grow by supporting their upskilling with our education benefits.
Q: Can you share any plans or partnerships Hackensack Meridian Health might have in the pipeline?
BG: Innovation is in our DNA, and harnessing AI will be one of the defining tasks of the 21st century. We have various AI-enabled production capabilities as pilots that are under development. AI-driven chatbots are already helping enhance the patient experience, allowing providers to spend more time on patient care and assisting clinicians in making early diagnoses and prioritizing treatments.
Q: What is one word that you would use to describe how you're feeling about the rest of 2024 leading into 2025 for the health system? Why that word?
BG: Optimistic. I’m an optimist by nature. Optimists can inspire others to take chances and strive for greatness. A positive outlook on the future allows you to remain focused on achieving your mission and goals despite any challenges or roadblocks. Luckily, the healthcare industry is full of optimists who are helping create a healthier future.