In today’s featured interview segments, Traci Bernard talks about the characteristics and benefits of physician-owned joint venture hospitals like the one she leads, Texas Health Southlake, as well as the specific qualities of her own hospital’s board of directors.
She begins by countering some of the “bad rap” that JV hospitals have, and explains,
“We’re accredited as a full acute hospital, we have to meet every accreditation standard, whether it’s CMS, whether it’s Joint Commission. So we’re meeting the same standards, we’re held to the same regulations, and we do it well. And I think we do it well because, number one, the physicians are helping to manage the checkbook, and I think that’s a good thing.”
Bernard goes on to address the particular success of her hospital, noting, “I think if you take care of your people and you take care of your patients and you take care of your doctors, that growth and the financial side of it is going to follow… Because people are going to be loyal to an organization that takes care of them.”
When asked to reflect on some of the qualities of her board of directors, Bernard immediately noted with obvious respect the incredible skill of each member: “They are just some of the best surgeons, best physicians I’ve ever worked with in my life. And it’s so nice not to have to worry about the quality side of things.” She went on to point to their passion and love for what they’re doing, as well as their loyalty, committment, and compassion for those they serve.
To watch these segments from the interview, click above.