The COVID-19 pandemic is driving ACHE chapters to be more creative with their offerings. Many have taken advantage of technology to offer members virtual networking and education, as well as general support and care. Below are some examples from chapters on how they are keeping their members connected as they serve their communities on the front lines.
Focusing on Mentorship, Changing Times Through Webinars in the Garden State
The concept of “Jersey Strong” began after Hurricane Sandy ravaged the state in 2012. Now, ACHE—NJ has banded together to be just as strong as ever. Recently, the chapter’s attention has shifted to growing the mentorship program so that early careerists are on the right path through these trying times, according to Michael A. Pizzano, the chapter’s president. The goal of the mentorship program is to assist members in developing careers in healthcare administration, networking with other healthcare professionals, expanding knowledge of healthcare issues and promoting ACHE membership. The chapter is slated to begin the program in September, and it will run through June 2021.
Additionally, the chapter offered a free COVID-19 webinar dedicated to resiliency for healthcare heroes and giving them the strength and courage to overcome the pandemic. This sold-out event provided the comfort and support that was needed. The chapter moved forward with a quickly sold-out meet-and-greet webinar in June with its new board, and a webinar series that began in mid-June and will run through September. This series was presented by local healthcare executives and focused on COVID-19, including best practices for telehealth, mental health and preparation for another wave.
Virtual Offerings in Wisconsin
American College of Healthcare Executives—Wisconsin Chapter has been supporting its members through virtual meetings and webinars. The chapter had its first virtual meetings on the topics of “COVID-19: Getting Back to the New Normal in Healthcare” and “COVID-19: Leading a Team Through the Pandemic.” These are informal after-hours, small-group discussions of 15–20 members. Chapter sponsors continue to provide members with education on “Business Continuation—The Rules Have Changed” and “Key Considerations in Structuring Compliant Real Estate Arrangements for Healthcare Entities.” The Career Development Academy continues to offer its quarterly webinars. The most recent topic was “Finding Your Career Path.”
Enthusiastic Committees and Engaged Members in North Carolina
Triangle Healthcare Executives’ Forum had a busy start to the year before the events of COVID-19.
A two-panel event that was held in collaboration with the other chapters in North Carolina kicked off 2020, and it brought together over 160 attendees. It was a great opportunity to network with peers, recognize members from the chapters for their outstanding contributions, and thank THEF’s sponsors. In conjunction with International Women’s Day celebrations, THEF partnered with the local chapter of Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association and held its first diversity and inclusion event.
When the lockdown started, events were cancelled for the foreseeable future. Several THEF members were on the front lines of the pandemic. Safety was a priority, along with member needs, so the chapter transitioned to virtual platforms. For example, a virtual orientation was offered to participants in its mentorship program. THEF’s collaboration with Greater Charlotte Healthcare Executives on a Board of Governors Exam prep course continued, tapping into local expertise for faculty roles. The membership committee hosted a virtual career workshop for experienced professionals, helping them with tips for job searches, virtual interview skills and finessing resumes. Monthly board meetings went virtual, too, to discuss plans for the future.
THEF hopes to conduct in-person events under prescribed safety guidelines. These include several education and networking sessions, a diversity and inclusion program in the fall, and its annual care transformation event.
The local convocation ceremony to celebrate the chapter’s new Fellows from 2019 was cancelled this past spring, but their successes and accomplishments are expected to be honored this year, along with achievements of other members in the chapter, with help from the Awards and Recognitions Committee. The final event of the year will be a well-deserved celebration.
Virtual Services in Minnesota
While the pandemic has changed tactics for ACHE—MN Chapter, its commitment to engaging members and cultivating professional growth remains the same. The crisis has served as an opportunity for the chapter to be creative and innovative. Thanks to the chapter’s bold members and crafty use of technology, that is just what the chapter is doing. ACHE—MN Chapter has offered several free virtual webinars as well as a free Fellow advancement program. In addition to offering these webinars to Minnesota members, ACHE—MN Chapter has reached out and extended invitations to its neighboring chapters in Iowa, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin to participate.
Networking and Education in Tennessee
ACHE of Middle Tennessee conducted several unique webinars during April and May to keep members engaged. In April, the chapter conducted a virtual happy hour that included an open chat and a town hall feel with over 20 members in attendance.
In May, the chapter conducted a virtual book review that had four members give a short synopsis of books they have read recently, many on healthcare leadership. With over 30 in attendance, this was well-received and something that will be repeated.
The chapter will launch its physician leadership program this fall, using a virtual format.
To find your chapter or search the chapter directory. To discuss your ideas for chapters, contact Jennifer L. Connelly, FACHE, CAE, vice president, Department of Regional Services, at (312) 424-9320 or jconnelly@ache.org.