World-class healthcare is defined not only by expertise but by true patient-centered care. Jeffry Alan Peters shares his personal experience navigating cancer treatment and how it deepened his understanding of what truly sets top hospitals apart—like Memorial Sloan Kettering, where collaborative, compassionate care made all the difference. Read Jeff’s post below to learn more and reach out to him with your thoughts or questions at [email protected].
World Class Hospitals Focus on the Patient for Success I was recently diagnosed with cancer, which began my exceedingly difficult journey navigating a treatment plan. I have learned more on what drives World Class Healthcare Organizations through this journey than in my 45 years in healthcare leadership. My first visit with a surgeon at a nationally recognized Hospital lasted about five minutes. He walked into the exam room and said, “You are not a candidate for surgery, and I am referring you to radiation therapy. You will not have a good outcome.” My follow-up appointment with the radiation therapist at the same hospital lasted maybe about four minutes. “You are young and healthy. You should have surgery and not get radiation. And, I would not have surgery here.” Neither physician asked about my treatment goals nor seemed to want to get a sense of who I am. Both physicians did not have any awareness of my medical knowledge, nor did they offer any comfort during this difficult time. Six second opinions later -but who is counting - I was able to connect with a surgeon and radiation oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering. They reviewed my studies together before meeting with me; they asked about my goals for treatment; and they then helped me make a surgical decision. They functioned as a team to guide me. I am post-surgery now and optimistic about my future outcome. Patients choose to get healthcare where they trust their physicians and feel the physicians understand and care about them. Memorial Sloan Kettering is a world-class healthcare organization. Their success is based not only on their world class physicians but on how they deliver care. Every single employee you encounter from the schedulers, nurses and physicians are emotionally engaged. They convey an appreciation of your fears and that they are here to help you. Memorial Sloan Kettering creates a healing culture and its why patients want to get their care there. To share your thoughts please email me at [email protected]