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“Competition? It’s What the Doctor Ordered” paints an incomplete picture of how coordinated networks of care among hospitals and health systems affect health care delivery. Not only does it leave out many key facts on the benefits to patients and communities…it also attempts to draw broad conclusions based on limited and incomparable studies and data.

In this ever-changing world, there are fewer certainties than ever before: the health care field, the political landscape, and even the climate are transforming as I write. But, one thing that doesn’t change, and you can count on: The AHA Annual Membership Meeting is one of the best places to learn about the new trends shaping health care, hear about our field’s opportunities to impact public policy from the key players who are shaping it, and talk with your peers from across the country about how we can build a stronger health system for our patients, hospitals and communities.

Earlier this month AHA released a blog post that pointed out numerous flaws in a recent Health Affairs study on hospital and physician prices between 2007 and 2014. We asked the respected economics consulting firm Charles River Associates to take an even closer at why the study’s findings are flawed.

AHA’s Association for Community Health Improvement’s annual conference is a chance for health care leaders to shape population health and equity initiatives from the ground up.

In recent years, Airbnb, Uber and Netflix have changed the way we vacation, hail a ride and watch movies.

The last thing a patient should worry about in a health crisis is an unanticipated medical bill that unintentionally impacts their out-of-pocket costs … and undermines the trust and confidence that patients have in their caregivers.

The authors of this Health Affairs study on hospital and physician prices use limited data to draw broad conclusions.

We must act now – and together – to protect local access to high-quality, affordable care and empower rural hospitals to thrive as cornerstones of their communities for generations to come.

The AHA’s goal is to improve the health care of every American, no matter where they live…big city, small town, frontier or somewhere in between.

Health care affordability is a key issue for consumers, hospitals and health systems. While health care leaders have been tackling the issue head on – redesigning care and implementing operational efficiencies – solving this complex challenge will require us all to think differently and more collaboratively.

America’s patients deserve the best care in the world, and America’s national hospital associations are united in calling for accelerated interoperability to make that happen. 

Last week, I shared a few areas where we can advance health in America this year, even in a divided Congress. Number one on that list: reining in the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs.

AHA outside counsel Sean Marotta shares insight from yesterday’s oral arguments before the Supreme Court in a case about when the Department of Health and Human Services must give public notice and accept and respond to comments on its proposed policies.

When our paths cross in the year ahead, I ask you to share what is on your mind, what keeps you up at night, and how we can work together to ensure that all individuals reach their highest potential for health.  

We’re 11 days into 2019 … we’ve returned to a divided government …and the partial government shutdown continues.

Hospitals and health systems have a crucial role to play in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking, and we urge you to join many of your colleagues in developing a plan to tackle this pervasive issue and deliver compassionate care to victims of human trafficking. 

The AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference – one of AHA’s flagship events – will be held Feb. 3-6 in Phoenix. AHA Executive Vice President Maryjane Wurth previews the conference designed to help rural health care leaders and trustees propel the transformation to a more integrated and sustainable rural health system.

Brian Gragnolati began his career in health care working as an EMT.

As this year winds down, on behalf of the entire AHA Board of Trustees and our staff team, I want to thank you for all you do. I also want to express our appreciation for turning to us as your trusted partner as you focus on serving your patients and communities.