The importance of transparency and quality: a conversation with health care leaders

Today, I was honored be invited to participate in a panel discussion hosted by The Rainier Club entitled “The Business of Being Well: Healthier Patients, Better Outcomes.” My fellow panelist included; Dr. Gary Kaplan, chairman and CEO of Virginia Mason, and Sarah Cole, CFO of Vera Whole Health and was moderated by Gordon Prouty, publisher of the Puget Sound Business Journal.  

A common thread in our discussion was what it takes to become a healthier and happier community as costs rise and diseases continue to advance.

One topic was how our accountable care partnerships including our partnership with EvergreenHealth Partners / Virginia Mason is paving the way towards a new business model for the health care industry. Both Dr. Kaplan and I discussed our recent site visit to EvergreenHealth Partners and the importance of accountable care networks.

I also tackled questions regarding the changes I’ve seen in the last year within the health care industry, how Regence is keeping up with pressures being put on the health insurance industry in general, and the shift towards private health care exchanges for small and large employers.

It was great to have an opportunity to share our perspective and have this important conversation with Dr. Kaplan and Sarah Cole as each of us navigates the ever-changing health care industry. It was wonderful to see the mutual commitment to transparency, quality, affordability, and the desire to sustain and help support a healthy community.