there were many positive changes with good growth, and growth
has excelled so much more since then. Sarah Bush Lincoln has
grown faster and larger than any other organization in the area
it serves, and it has stayed on the cutting edge of technology and
excellence in patient care. When I visit Sarah Bush Lincoln, I am
impressed with the cleanliness and friendliness of all the staff,
and I am proud of what the health system has become. It is still
heading in a positive direction.”
Esker added, “Our clinics have become the front door to our
organization. Clinic expansion over the last several years has
resulted in significantly more visits, specialty referrals and income
from necessary labs and diagnostic imaging. We’ve grown from
180,000 visits eight or nine years ago to more than 300,000 visits
this year.”
Over the last 15 years, there has been a lot of talk about both
‘quality’ and ‘access’ in healthcare. What does this really mean
to patients and their families?
6 healthstyles
may 2017
“When I served on the board, the Sarah Bush Lincoln
administrative team demonstrated unwavering leadership
and an absolute commitment to quality over many years,”
Dively said. “Improvements in quality included enhancing
technology and purchasing state-of-the-art equipment, so
community members have access to high-tech care without
having to travel. Improvements also meant enhancing
patient safety so people get better faster and with less risk
of medical errors. We have seen the many benefits of this
work in customer feedback, industry recognition, employee
satisfaction and incredible community support, which reflect
the Health Center’s success and commitment to being one of
safest health centers in the country.”
Dively continued, “I was very proud to represent Sarah Bush
Lincoln and work with a great board and so many strong
leaders who were completely committed to helping deliver
quality healthcare in our communities. It was important work
but brought great satisfaction and pride to all of us.”
SBL 2017 Executive Committee (left to right): Michael Smith, Scott Wilson,
Lyla McGuire, John Lauer, MD, Jerry Esker, Steve Wente and Tim Mooney