Healthcare workers and the general public share similar concerns when it comes to the sustainability of Brightshores Health System.
The hospital network in Grey and Bruce counties spent three months gathering both internal and external feedback to better understand how people experience care and how the organization can evolve in the future. More than 400 people participated in dozens of in-person sessions held across local communities. Dozens more contributed through virtual discussions and over 700 surveys were completed for a total of more than 3,500 comments and suggestions made about care, access, and experience at Brightshores.
“Brightshores is widely seen as compassionate, committed, and deeply connected to the communities it serves,” Board of Directors Chair Deborah Pope said in a statement. “People shared thoughtful ideas about how Brightshores can continue to strengthen care. It is clear that our communities believe in Brightshores, and they want to be part of shaping its future.”
The top five concerns listed by staff, doctors, and volunteers were staffing and workload, technology issues, access and wait times, communication, and service demand and capacity. For patients, families and the general public the number one concern was access and wait times at hospital. That was followed by staffing shortages, a need to modernize technology, increasing service demands, and equipment and supplies.
“The insights shared through this process will help us to build on our strengths and create a system that supports both high-quality care throughout our region and the people who deliver it," said Brightshores CEO and President Ann Ford. "I extend my sincere thanks to all who participated for their thoughtful input and commitment to our shared future.”
Feedback provided through the engagement initiatives will be used to guide Brightshores' strategic planning over the next six months.
