HLTH: Innovating Healthcare: Kevin Mahoney on Tackling Workforce Challenges & Tech-Driven Solutions at Penn Medicine
Tackling the labor shortage in science and medicine requires valuing healthcare as a noble profession and using technology to streamline training.
In this episode, Kevin Mahoney, CEO of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, discusses the challenges of talent shortages amid a retiring baby boomer generation and a smaller incoming workforce, emphasizing the need for technology to fill the gap. He shares Penn Medicine's innovative initiatives, including flash radiation for cancer treatment and a startup providing maternal support, highlighting their commitment to both technological advancements and human connections. Kevin touches on the need to repair broken systems by speaking to the patients and fixing the issues, refocusing on clinical outcomes, and reimagining the delivery of care. He also underscores that embracing change management with intentionality is crucial for healthcare organizations.
Tune in and learn how one of the nation's leading health systems is embracing bold strategies to improve healthcare delivery and workforce development!
About Kevin Mahoney:
Kevin B. Mahoney is the Chief Executive Officer of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, a cornerstone of Penn Medicine. Overseeing six hospitals, 13 multispecialty centers, and numerous outpatient facilities across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, he leads efforts to advance patient care, medical education, and research. Since joining Penn Medicine in 1996, Mahoney has held key leadership roles, becoming CEO in 2019. He has spearheaded major initiatives, including the development of the 1.5-million-square-foot Pavilion and the integration of Penn Medicine’s electronic health records system. A champion of health equity, he established a partnership with Wharton to invest in businesses addressing social determinants of health. Recognized among the most influential figures in healthcare, Mahoney holds an MBA and doctorate from Temple University.
Things You’ll Learn:
The healthcare field faces a critical talent shortage due to retiring baby boomers and a smaller subsequent generation demanding innovative solutions.
Cultural shifts are crucial to attracting talent to science and medicine, emphasizing the nobility of healthcare professions over purely financial incentives.
Healthcare organizations must remain agile and adaptable, embracing new regulations and technological advancements while staying focused on what matters most: patient care.
Artificial intelligence is a crucial tool for achieving precision medicine, enabling proactive healthcare interventions based on individual patient profiles.
By repairing systems and improving clinical outcomes, healthcare systems can find ways to continue improving the landscape.
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