Dear Colleagues:When we consider the impact of Brigham and Women's Hospital as a member of Partners HealthCare, we can define the value added to our community in a variety of ways. Consider the following facts: Partners HealthCare System provides $100 million in subsidized care to low-income residents, 33,000 jobs, and another 25,000 in ripple effect jobs and $407 million in research funding.

Also consider that patient safety has improved dramatically through computerized order entry, the cost of care driven down by shifts to lower cost settings and shorter lengths of stay, some residency programs enriched through mergers, three community hospitals stabilized and the number of community health centers tripled.

Yet above all else, we recognize Partners as a principle driver of improved care in a challenging healthcare environment. As an integrated health system, Partners adds value to our patients and our community.

It is perhaps easy to lose sight of the significant contributions made by Partners HealthCare as we begin to approach the decade mark in its evolution. Yet, the impact has never been more pronounced. As we wrestle with external financial forces such as a destabilized free care pool and significant Medicaid cuts, we understand that we are part of a system dedicated to preserving the health of our patients and our hospitals. James Mongan, MD, PHS Chief Executive Officer, has repeatedly stated that if we continue to optimize the quality of care while effectively and efficiently utilizing our services, we will provide continued value to an overburdened health care system. Dr. Mongan has formulated five signature initiatives designed to promote quality of care throughout the Partners system. These initiatives are highlighted on page 7. The oversight Committees expect to have completed initial strategic plans and budgets by the end of August as a prelude to a two-year implementation phase.

While we must certainly continue to execute our mission within severe budgetary constraints, it is encouraging that high quality care is recognized as the most cost-effective care.

Sincerely,

Andy Whittemore, MD
Chief Medical Officer