Ronald Place

The Illuminate Strategic Plan serves as a three-year roadmap for Avera, setting its direction and focus from 2025 to 2027. The plan's overarching aspiration is to establish Avera as a Nationally Leading Rural Integrated Health Care Delivery Network, aligning with its mission to positively impact the lives and health of individuals and communities across all locations. Key strategic priorities include fostering growth, enhancing quality, driving innovation in patient care, and deepening community engagement. Additionally, the plan emphasizes commitments to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, providing community benefits, developing a skilled workforce, and making strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure and technology.

The meeting addressed several operational and financial matters. Key discussions included a correction to the previous month's minutes regarding bonded debt discussion, approval of the Plant Operations Report, and approval of the positive April 2019 Financial/Statistical Report. The Board approved the capital request for a new Stryker saw system for the Surgery Department and directed the CEO to proceed with legal action to collect a delinquent vendor receivable. The CEO provided updates on the CFO search and the provider tax. An update from Avera McKennan noted the retirement of a Chief Medical Officer and the naming of the new Avera Specialty Hospital.

Avera's 2023-2025 Quality Plan focuses on enhancing patient care through higher quality, safer, and more affordable services. Key priorities include preventing avoidable hospitalizations and healthcare-acquired infections, improving customer experience, and promoting affordability, behavioral health, and community wellness. The plan supports continuous improvement by monitoring care quality, reviewing findings against benchmarks, and addressing adverse events, while preparing for digital quality measures and value-based care.