Hawaii - Pacific Chapter of ACHE

September 2021

Messages from Chapter Leadership

Message from the Regent

Hawaii-Pacific Regent, Micah Ewing communicates ACHE's mission to advance healthcare leaders and the field of healthcare management excellence. 

Message From Your ACHE Regent 
Summer 2021 

Aloha, 

I hope this message finds you, your families, and co-workers safe and optimistic in spite of the rapidly accelerating surge in new COVID-19 cases we see across the nation, as well as our Pacific region. It is once again a challenging road ahead of unknown duration and destination, and our collective leadership remains as important as ever. 

Despite the challenges, ACHE remains persistently committed to supporting all levels of our health care leaders with online resources and virtual programming to support the educational and credentialing needs of our members. As we have always experienced unique challenges with travel in Hawai’i and Guam, I continue to urge you to take advantage of the virtual educational content and programs being offered. In addition to this, we remain firmly focused on re-engaging our membership and making positive changes in diversity, equity, and inclusion within our industry. The following is a summary of upcoming opportunities and work being done at both the national and local levels:

• Hawai’i-Pacific Fall Educational Program – The chapter is finalizing plans for another stellar virtual event that will provide a significant number of Face-to-Face hours at a very reasonable cost. Stay tuned for details. 

• Hawai’i-Pacific Chapter Annual (Virtual) Meeting (TBD – Early December) – A guest speaker is planned for this event, along with awards and chapter updates. 

• 2022 Congress on Healthcare Leadership (March 28-31) – Mark your calendars—the last event was highly rated, and this is perhaps one of the best opportunities for Face-to-Face credit with the largest variety of topics and networking opportunities.

• Student Scholarships – Our local chapter board has approved twenty (20) scholarships to be awarded to students actively involved in healthcare leadership programs.

• Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) – We continue to have a focus in this area with a growing number of available resources. If interest, please visit: https://www.ache.org/about- ache/our-story/diversity-and- inclusion.

In various conversations with various leaders about the resurfacing surge, I notice several different reactions: frustration that this could have been avoided, mindful acknowledgment as this was to be expected, or a fatigued sigh of resentment that we are back where we came from. As leaders, I have faith we will remember our mission and work together with steadfast resolve in continuing to provide the best care possible for our patients in need. 

Micah B. Ewing, FACHE 
Regent for Hawaii/Pacific 
micah.ewing@  hawaiipacifichealth.org

Message from the Chapter President

Andrew Giles, MBA, FACHE

Aloha Hawaii-Pacific Chapter ACHE Members!

I trust you all are staying safe during this latest surge, and thank you for leaning in to support our healthcare staff and local communities during this difficult time.  Due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, the Hawaii-Pacific ACHE Chapter will continue to meet virtually for the remainder of the year.  As an eternal optimist, I had hoped we would be able to get together in person for a continuing education or networking event in 2021, but clearly that is unlikely given the current surge in the islands.  We are, however, looking to close out the year with a stellar (virtual) Annual Meeting in December, complete with an inspirational guest speaker, details coming soon.  Our education committee is also planning another continuing education program this fall, details regarding that program will be released via email soon.  As the year wraps up, we would also like to solidify the ACHE’s relationship with our local healthcare students and universities.  The chapter board has approved (20) membership scholarships for students for the 2021-2022 calendar year.  Our board’s intent is to personally connect with the scholarship recipients, to help mentor and inspire the next cohort of healthcare leaders in Hawaii.  The scholarship information will be posted on our website, and sent out via email in the coming month(s).  As always, if you would like to get more involved with one of our committees, please email me at Andrew.T.Giles@kp.org.  Mahalo for all that you do & Be Safe!

Thank you,

Andrew

 

Andrew T. Giles, MBA, FACHE

President, Hawai'i-Pacific Chapter of ACHE  

Assistant Administrator - Hospital Operations & Support Services

 

Andrew.T.Giles@kp.org 

808-432-7960 (office)

808-432-8605 (fax)

808-763-8544 (mobile phone)

Article of Interest

How Providers Can Continue to Support Mental Health Services Post-Pandemic

While the pandemic is subsiding, provider organizations can continue to focus on expanding behavioral health service access through telehealth. The behavioral health services space experienced heightened attention as people suffered from greater levels of stress, anxiety, and depression during the pandemic.   

Urvashi Patel, PhD, chief analytics officer, Brighton Health Plan Solutions, a healthcare enablement company based in New York, said there was a shortage of behavioral health workers prior to the pandemic, and it has only underscored the importance of adequately supporting mental health services. She added the need for greater access to pediatric behavioral health services will be evident over the next year.

Top of Form

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When asked what hospital executives can do to address the issue, Patel said provider organizations can continue to focus on expanding behavioral health service access through telehealth. She added telemedicine apps that offer mental health services through text or chat features can provide convenient access for patients and lead to improved appointment compliance.

Hospitals and health systems should also explore models of integrated care that coordinate treatment with behavioral health specialists and primary care doctors. She also said another opportunity exists for health systems in states where advanced practice nurses can practice psychiatry on their own, noting tapping into this workforce can meet patient demand.

While there has been a significant drop-off from the record-high overall utilization of telehealth at the start of the pandemic, Patel said behavioral health utilization through virtual care has only seen a slight decline.

Patel added that behavioral health services might have a longer staying power when delivered through telehealth and could aid in removing the stigma for patients when seeking mental health treatment.

—Adapted from "How Providers Can Continue to Support Mental Health Services Post-Pandemic," HealthLeaders, by Jack O’Brien, April 27, 2021.

How Providers Can Continue to Support Mental Health Services Post-Pandemic

A Call for Aloha

Kenny Morris

A reminder of the importance and power of Aloha in challenging times

As the world not so slowly emerges from travel lockdowns, social-distancing and the seemingly endless cycle of work from home Zoom calls, social and political discontent and takeout (lots and lots of takeout), we must recognize that the world we rejoin is one that is different in ways that herd immunity alone cannot overcome.  We need Aloha.

During the height of the Pandemic, we retreated to our own corners of the world both physically and philosophically, in person and virtually, pulled by the gravity of those closest to us in body and in thought.  Kupuna were isolated, our Keiki disconnected, and our families separated – with birthdays, weddings, and births all celebrated distantly, quietly, and virtually.

Even as the promise of mass vaccinations emerged, our Healthcare workers and support staff are departing the profession in staggering numbers as preventable surges in hospitalizations combined with staffing shortages further tax an already exhausted workforce. Reopenings and latent demand for travel and dining service have exposed hospitality workers to a barrage of misbehavior as well. Restaurants now do not close because they cannot survive financially. Instead, they close because their staff must recover mentally and emotionally from the flood of rude and demanding customers.

From lockdowns to vaccines, re-openings to new variants, as a people, we have been pulled under and thrown around from wave after wave of virus as if stuck inside on a big day at Waimea Bay.  We are more divided than ever, more exhausted, burned out, and on edge than ever and to top it off, it has been a year and a half since we had a conversation with a stranger that wasn’t in the comment section of Jason Mamoa’s latest Instagram post. 

Combined, these are a most potent recipe for disaster, yet it is in these moments of adversity that we in Hawaii are most well equipped to thrive.  Here in Hawaii, the melting pot of cultures, philosophies, ethnicities and the home of celebrated diversity, we have Aloha.

Per the Hawaii Revised Statutes 5-7.5,

“Aloha” means mutual regard and affection and extends warmth in caring with no obligation in return. 

“Aloha” is the essence of relationships in which each person is important to every other person for collective existence.

As we return to a changed world, we may be different, we may be a little rough around the edges and a little rusty at socializing, but we are all in this together.  A little patience, understanding and a lot of Aloha can go a long way.

Practice Aloha, give Aloha and show Aloha and our new world will be better for it.

News & Committee Updates

Membership Report: New Fellows, Members, and Recertified Fellows

Travis Clegg, Membership Chair

On behalf of the membership committee, I wish to thank all of you for your engagement with and continued support for our chapter.

Aloha from the membership committee.  I am happy to report that two fellows have recertified and seven new members have joined ACHE since our last update. Additionally, I am pleased to congratulate Dr. Lilian Kanai and Dr. James Lin for achieving their FACHE credentials.

Please extend a warm Aloha to our New Members

Congratulations to our New Fellows

Career and Leadership

Ask an Exec!

Jessica Niles, MBA, RN-C
Darlena Chadwick, Queen's Health System Vice President for Patient Care and Immediate Past President of ACHE Hawai'i-Pacific, shares reflections and insights on leadership

This month, Darlena Chadwick, MSN, MBA, FACHE, Vice President of Patient Care for the Queen's Health System and Immediate Past Presdietn of ACHE Hawai'i-Pacific Chapter, took time to share insights into her background and approach to leadership.

Describe for us your unique path to leadership.

My career started in the Air Force right out of high school and the Air Force Reserves for over 20 years. The Air Force taught me discipline and the importance of teamwork.

My daughter Tabatha was diagnosed with cancer and as you can imagine, everything in my life changed, including my career path. I was amazed by the nurses and the wonderful compassionate care they gave to my daughter and family. I knew then that I wanted to make a difference in the pursuit to end cancer, and decided to go to nursing school.

Once my career started as a nurse, it was difficult for me as a prior Master Sargent in the Air Force not to be in a leadership role. For those who know me, I embrace change and always strive for excellence. I approached my CEO and requested a leadership position which accelerated my civilian leadership path. I have continued to work in Oncology my entire nursing career, in order to be that person that can affect policy changes and lead programmatic development.

During my early leadership at Queens, we quickly opened a comprehensive cancer center and started the first hospital based navigation and survivorship program to better serve our patients and their families. I continue to grow as a leader and have taken on many other areas of focus (Neuroscience, Imaging, Pharmacy, Lab, Pathology, Hamamatsu Joint Venture and of course Oncology); all of which I still find fascinating and challenging.

Tell us of an individual who influenced you the most and why:

My daughter Tabatha. She is a smart young woman that is also career oriented, yet always manages to be a great mom and role model to my two amazing grandchildren. Strong and courageous, she doesn’t let anything stop her from pursuing her dreams for herself and her family. Tabatha’s resilience and sense of humor help carry me through life with a positive attitude.

Who or what influenced your leadership style?

I’m so fortunate to be able to say I have never had a bad boss. Every person I’ve worked for has influenced me in a unique and different way. My team is incredible and has taught me that kindness really does matter.

What were important early leadership lessons for you?

Never think you know everything - I learn daily. Be humble and get to know your people.

What types of professional development activities did/do you find of value and why:

I attend as many learning opportunities as I can. ACHE has been an organization that allows for growth, development, and the opportunities to network with other leaders. I attend Congress, networking events, and stay current with other healthcare executives across the country.

Are there any habits, practices, or activities you established to further cultivate your leadership style?

Rounding - being visible is extremely important and helps me to listen, learn and provide support to others.

What advice would you give to those looking to advance in the area of health care administration and leadership?

Go for it! It is the most rewarding job you can ever hold. Again, be a visible leader and know you can make a difference!

What are some things you've done in terms of influencing your facility's organizational culture?

I actively participate on numerous committees and believe you have to get involved to make things better. I bring back information to my organization on many topics like diversity, burn out in the work place and evidence based practice. This creates conversations that change the culture for the better.

Mahalo, Darlena, for sharing your story and thoughts with us!

Member Spotlight: Suzanne Asaro

Jessica Niles, MBA, RN-C
Member spotlight on recently elected Hawaii'i-Pacific Chapter Director Suzanne Asaro, MPT, MBA.

For this month's member spotlight, we feature ACHE Hawai'i member and recently elected Board Member, Suzanne Asaro, MPT, MBA. Suzanne is the Director of Outpatient Operations and Rehabilitation at Adventist Health Castle.

What is your professional background?

I started my healthcare career as a Physical Therapist over 20 years ago and transitioned into leadership and management roles over the past 15 years. I am a passionate advocate of service excellence and utilizing a systematic approach in operational strategy. I was privileged to work on Castle's Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award winning application, as well as being involved with many leadership and service line initiatives and committees. I received my Master’s in Physical Therapy from Nova Southeastern University and my MBA from Loma Linda University.

What is your role in your organization?

Director for Castle’s Ambulatory clinics with strategic focus on providing quality care and access in our community, including an RHC Medical and Dental clinic in Laie.

How long have you been a member of ACHE and what active roles have you taken?

I have been active with the Hawai’i-Pacific chapter of ACHE as a member for 3 years, served on the Membership Committee for two years, and I am currently serving as a Director.

What are your primary areas of interest or concern as a health care leader?

“Providing the right care at the right time in the right place.” The past year and a half has highlighted the importance of providing quality care to our community in a way that engages them. We cannot always expect our community to come to us, we need to meet them where they are to partner with them for their health. Healthcare has not always been easy to navigate, especially for our more vulnerable community, we can do better at providing the support needed to allow them to actively participate in their care.

What role(s) would you like to see ACHE play in the local health care industry?

I sincerely appreciate the collaborative culture of our chapter and am truly inspired by the dedication I have seen displayed by the leaders within AHCE.

Mahalo Suzanne!

ACHE National News

Connect With Your Peers

Three free online communities for physician executives, Asian healthcare leaders and LGBTQ healthcare leaders.

Connect With Your Peers

New in 2021, we are pleased to offer members three free online communities for physician executives, Asian healthcare leaders and LGBTQ healthcare leaders. The communities platform makes it easier than ever for peers to connect in real time, tackle issues together and ask important career-related questions. Members can participate in discussion threads, share resources and best practices, and crowdsource innovative ideas and solutions.

To join, follow these steps:

1. Log in to my.ache.org.
2. Under “Helpful Links” on the right-hand side, click the last option, “My Communities.”
3. Click the “Add” button to choose the online communities you wish to join. An MD or DO degree is required to join the Physician Executive Community.
4. Watch your inbox for your welcome email and instructions to access your new community! The email will arrive within 24 hours.

We hope you will join these communities. If you have any questions, please email communitymanager@ache.org. 

Our Exclusive On-Demand Content Library Can Help Advance Your Career

Did you know that as a member, you have access to guided presentations to assist with your healthcare management career development?

Did you know that as a member, you have access to guided presentations to assist with your healthcare management career development? Our Career Resource Center has compiled a library of member-only, on-demand sessions that provide information and resources for healthcare leaders at all stages of their careers. Whether you are a student entering the field, a leader aspiring to a position in the C-suite, or a clinician transitioning to an administrative role, there’s something for everyone. All sessions within the CRC’s On-Demand Content Library were recorded at the 2021 Congress on Healthcare Leadership. We encourage members to explore the On-Demand Content Library and other resources and tools available just for them in the Career Resource Center.

Healthcare Consultants Forum Member Directory: Connecting Executives to Consultants

Identify a consultant who meets your needs

Healthcare Consultants Forum Member Directory: Connecting Executives to Consultants

The Healthcare Consultants Forum Member Directory offers a robust search functionality to help you identify a consultant who meets your needs. And if you are a consultant looking to gain visibility with decision-makers, consider joining the Healthcare Consultants Forum. The forum also offers resources tailored to a healthcare consultant’s specific career development needs.

ACHE Blog and Podcasts

ACHE Blog and Podcasts

Gain best practices and learn from your peers through our blog and the Healthcare Executive Podcast. Both the blog and podcast provide up-to-date content on the issues most pressing to healthcare executives. Be sure to share these with your colleagues. Follow the Healthcare Executive Podcast wherever you access podcasts.

2021 Premier Corporate Partners

 ACHE 2021 Premier Corporate Partners

We would like to recognize ACHE’s 2021 Premier Corporate Partners:

• BRG
• Cerner
• Change Healthcare
• Roche Diagnostics

These organizations are clearly demonstrating their commitment in supporting our mission to advance healthcare leadership excellence and fostering innovative solutions to the new challenges facing healthcare leaders in the wake of the pandemic. In 2021, they will be active participants at Congress, support complimentary webinars and providing additional educational content during the year. To learn more and access additional complimentary resources provided by the partners please click here. 

Calendars and Recent Events

Calendar of Events

Calendar of events

Calendar of Educational Events

Upcoming Calendar of Educational Events

ACHE Resources

Career Corner

Whether you're an early careerist, making a career transition, or getting ready to retire from the C-suite; ACHE's Career Resource Center offers a myriad of tools and resources to help you succeed.

Improve Your Networking Strategy

Network volunteers can provide names of key contacts in your chosen region or healthcare specialty, details of a local healthcare marketplace, and information on specific organizations you may targeting. 

Volunteer Your Services

Join the Career Advising Network to assist ACHE members during planned and unplanned career transitions. 

HELP SUPPORT ASPIRING HEALTHCARE LEADERS

Use the Career Advising Network

Request the assistance of an ACHE volunteer Advisor, whose background best matches your healthcare leadership objectives. 

FIND A HEALTHCARE LEADERSHIP CAREER ADVISOR

Board of Governors Exam at Pearson VUE Testing Centers

Pearson VUE Centers continue availability for taking the Board of Governors Exam. The company is following recommendations from the CDC and World Health Organization for preventing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting testing candidates and staff. As such, availability is limited at this time due to social distancing guidelines and government guidance, and candidates for the Board of Governors Exam are encouraged to scheduled their appointments well in advance. Some test centers are extending their hours to be open nearly 24 hours a day.

Candidates must bring and wear a face mask while at a Pearson VUE test center and throughout the Exam. Any surgical or cloth face mask, including a homemade face mask, is acceptable as long as the nose and mouth are fully covered. Candidates without a face mask will be denied testing services.

Additional health and safety measures at Pearson VUE test centers include:

• Hand sanitizer available in the waiting area and prior to entering the testing room.
• Increased cleaning and disinfecting regimens in between all testing appointments.
• Tissues provided to candidates upon arrival at the test center.
• Candidates permitted to wear disposable gloves if they choose.
• Candidates reminded to wash their hands or utilize hand sanitizer upon arrival at the test center.
• Enforcement of local social distancing requirements.

Access Complimentary Resources for the Board of Governors Exam

Preparing for the Board of Governors Exam?  AHCE has got you covered!  Check out resources available on the ACHE website.

The Board of Governors (BOG) Exam Outline is the blueprint for the BOG Exam. Every question on the Exam is associated with one of the knowledge or skill statements found in this outline. 

FACHE overview webinars provide a general look at the advancement process. Participants will learn how the FACHE credential can earn them the distinction of being the best of the best in healthcare management. The webinars cover the requirements, application process, BOG Exam, study resources and maintenance requirements. Plus, participants have the opportunity to ask questions about the advancement process. An upcoming session is scheduled for September 16. Register information is available here.

Additional resources designed to supplement other study resources are available as well. These include the Board of Governors Review Course, Online Tutorial and Exam Study Bundle.   

ACHE offers complimentary resources for Members beginning the journey toward board certification and the FACHE^® credential. These resources are designed to help Members succeed so they can be formally recognized for their competency, professionalism, ethical decision making, and commitment to lifelong learning.

Disclaimers/Sponsors

Ensure delivery of Chapter E-newsletter (Disclaimer)

To ensure delivery of your chapter newsletter, please add info@hawaii.ache.org to your email address book or Safe Sender List. If you are still having problems receiving our communications, see our white-listing page for more details:

https://www.commpartners.com/whitelisting/

Thank you to all our Sponsors

• Hawai’i Pacific Health
• Kaiser Permanente 
• The Queen’s Health Systems

• Hawai‘i Pacific X-Ray Corporation
• Adventist Health

Silver Sponsors

• Hawai‘i Pathologists
• Nihon Koden
• Lifescience Resources
• Stryker