Every week we publish a new blog post written by one of our CCMU staff or board members. We write from the heart, and we draw from our own experiences to help share our perspective on issues related to the health care system and the medically underserved. This year, we’ve written about everything from neurosurgery in Phnom Penh to walking as meditation. We’ve shared stories about our sisters, fathers, and pets, as well as lessons we’ve learned from prominent health care leaders, local school administrators, and two-year-olds. For our last post of 2013, we thought we’d bring back some of the best posts from this year by each of our authors. Enjoy!
Gretchen Hammer
Gretchen’s role as a leader extends far beyond her role at CCMU, and her 2013 posts reflect that. From the soccer field to the board room, she found lessons in leadership everywhere.
- Inspiring a shared vision – on how leaders work with their community to make change
- Multipurpose tools – on Collective Impact and the importance of versatile tools
Aubrey Hill
This year, Aubrey looked introspectively and shared about her journey to be a better leader, embrace imperfect ideas, and see failure as a learning opportunity.
- Accepting imperfection – on seeking constructive criticism as we change the health care system
- Course corrections – on the ACC and evaluating progress
Denali Johnson
More than anything, Denali loves people. In her 2013 blog posts, she took us around the state and through many neighborhoods to share stories of what’s working for Coloradans—and what’s not.
- So much more than lacrosse – on Colorado’s inner city children and overcoming challenges
- One-stop-shop – on the power of integrated care to improve the lives of patients and providers
Sarah Mapes
Data collection, hypothesis testing, cost-benefit analyses—this year, Sarah shared a number of personal stories that helped bring to life some traditionally dry—but important!—topics.
- The data dreams are made of – on the importance of grounding decisions in data
- Long distance – on a cancer diagnosis and the challenge of accessing care in rural Colorado
Jess Meyer
CCMU’s newest staff member may still be learning the ropes, but she’s a keen observer and a quick learner. In her posts to date, she offered insightful commentary on shared responsibility.
- Mutual mentorship – on the Colorado Network of Health Alliances and shared learning
- Inside the petri dish – on scientific inquiry and the remaining uninsured
Joe Sammen
You might say Joe’s 2013 blog posts were brought to you by the letter ‘c’: they’re all about cooperation, collaboration, community, and connection.
- Not-so-super utilization – on high-needs patients and connecting them to appropriate care
- The art of collaboration – on ice sculpting and collaborating with competitors