Strategic Thinking for Health Care Essay

As one of the largest of the country's non-profit hospital systems, Banner has more than 36,000 employees and twenty-three facilities (Banner, 2012). These facilities comprise acute-care hospitals and various facilities for health care. Research done at Banner has been recognized internationally, and the company offers physician care, hospice, hospital, and home care. Seven states are serviced by Banner: California, Arizona, Wyoming, Alaska, Colorado, Nevada, and Nebraska (Banner, 2012). The company is based out of Phoenix, Arizona and provides high levels of benefits to the communities it serves. That is why Banner is a success when other systems sometimes fail. Charity care done by Banner each year exceeds $110 million, while indigent care (Medicaid and other public programs) exceeds $176 million (Banner, 2012). When one adds in the unpaid costs that come with Medicare, the total community benefit of Banner is $381 million per year (Banner, 2012).

Naturally, that level of care is highly significant and can make a huge difference in a community where there are many indigent people who cannot afford medical care. Because Banner is large enough and strong enough to absorb those costs, it is much more likely to be successful.Of course, there is more to the issue than just the cost of care (Harrison, 2010). Joint venturing and physician practice issues are part of the strategy that is seen with modern health care. When accountable care organizations are able to partner with others in the community and focus on long-term planning, those organizations can do more for themselves and for the community at large. Companies like Banner are changing the face of health care, and they have a great deal to offer to the communities they serve. That is good news for the community and for the company, because they can work together to ensure that every patient gets the best care and the company continues to operate in the community.

References

Banner health at a glance. (2012). Banner Health. Retrieved from http://www.bannerhealth.com/About+Us/Banner+at+a+Glance/_At+a+Glance.htm

Gold, J. (2011). Accountable care organizations, explained. Kaiser Health News, NPR.

Harrison, J.P. (2010). Essentials of strategic planning in healthcare. Chapters 9, 10, & 11. Chicago: Health Administration Press.

McClellan, M., et al. (2010). A national strategy to put….....