Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/550625
UNDER THE LEADERSHIP of former CEO Joseph Wilczek, CHI Franciscan Health grew from a three-hospital system to an eight-hospital, centralized, regional health care leader, employing more than 12,000 individuals. It's those same people—the ones who make their homes here and work tirelessly for the good and well-being of their friends, families and neighbors—who inspire Patel's vision for the future of health care at CHI Franciscan. OUR GREATEST ASSET "When I started here, I made a conscious decision to spend my first 90 days getting to know the people of CHI Franciscan Health," Patel said. "I was deeply moved by their dedication, openness and commitment to quality in all they do. Our people are our greatest asset. They are the reason we can move forward and do more for the communities we serve." Patel will continue growing the CHI Franciscan organization, moving care to more convenient locations and perfecting partnerships with regional physicians and wellness organizations to better serve the specific health care needs of the local communities. As the availability of the services we provide grows, it is Patel's mission to ensure every new location, relationship and provider will embody the high level of care held dear at CHI Franciscan. "Our focus will continue to be on providing the best possible care to patients every day," Patel said. "It comes back to family. How would we want our mothers, fathers, children and other loved ones to be cared for? That's how we know we are doing something right. Engaging patients in high quality care with a safety-first mentality is the only way forward." CHI Franciscan Health's new CEO, Ketul J. Patel, seeks to build on a legacy of progress, growth and patient-centered care, further elevating the level of health care in the Puget Sound. A Bright Future for Puget Sound Health Care Keep up with all the news from CHI Franciscan Health by visiting chifranciscan.org. KETUL J. PATEL, CHI FRANCISCAN HEALTH CEO "There is a longstanding tradition here of using our position as a health care leader to fulfi ll the spiritual, emotional and physical needs of those we serve. The Sisters of St. Francis who created this health system made it clear that this was our priority. That won't change on my watch." chifranciscan.org /// HIGHLINE MEDICAL CENTER 5