WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
DIGNITY HEALTH
THROUGH COLLABORATION , WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER
Pictured : Dr . Anita Chandrasena , Chief Physician Executive , Dignity Health Northern California Division
Dr . Anita Chandrasena may not have intended to work in hospital administration when she began her medical career in 2002 , but she is grateful for the mentors who recognized her abilities and invested in her professional growth . “ This allowed me to pursue different opportunities , which has led to a career I find so fulfilling and rewarding ,” Chandrasena says .
Chandrasena , who currently serves as chief physician executive for Dignity Health ’ s Northern California division , wholeheartedly embraces the organization ’ s mission to care for the underserved . Likewise , she deeply connects with the organization ’ s values , including compassion , inclusion and integrity . However , the value Chandrasena says that resonates with her most is collaboration .
“ We are stronger in the community , in our lives and in the care we provide our patients when we do it together ,” Chandrasena says . “ Throughout the pandemic , we have learned so much . We are still learning and continuing to pivot so that we can provide compassionate , excellent care . We could not have achieved this without collaboration and I am proud of our team for embracing different viewpoints and working together so that we can provide the right care for the communities we serve .”
During the pandemic , Chandrasena was one of the leaders responsible for Dignity Health ’ s COVID-19 Command Center . This special taskforce was created to identify and share COVID-19 best care practices . “ This included sharing resources or medical equipment when they became scarce ,” Chandrasena says .
The pandemic has left no industry or community untouched and Chandrasena is candid about the challenges facing the health care industry . “ Many health care workers are experiencing burnout and exhaustion ,” she says . “ If we cannot prioritize their wellbeing , then that affects how we care for our communities .”
But even with the challenges , Chandrasena believes there is no better career than health care . Her advice for those considering a career in medicine ? “ Go for it ,” Chandrasena emphasizes . “ I think this career can make your heart sing and every day you get to help make a difference in the world .”
“ Throughout the pandemic , our focus has been to bring our teams together , share learnings and ensure a unified and consistent approach in patient care .”
— Dr . Anita Chandrasena
www . dignityhealth . org
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