As 2014 gets under way, I find myself reflecting on how closely we are approximating the vision that brought me to PeaceHealth just over two years ago.

My own professional journey has carried me from my role as a traditional general internist through progressively larger administrative positions, culminating in my stepping away from practice completely for the first time, after 35 years, when I joined PeaceHealth.

My motivation in evolving from practice to leadership has been the opportunity to improve the care of more than just my personal panel of patients. I was excited by the chance to affect potentially hundreds of thousands of patients by being part of a team that brings high quality, patient-friendly care to whole communities. We are definitely on that path and I am convinced we are building just such a team together.

Sometimes when we are focusing on metrics (such as quality, patient experience, access or productivity) it is easy to allow these conversations to feel critical. I fear we can lose sight of the ultimate goal that I believe we all share.  These data points are not endpoints unto themselves, they are just the best measures we have of plotting our progress toward our overarching aim.

As we look ahead to this new year, I ask that you join with me in reaffirming our jointly held commitment to our vision that every person receives safe, compassionate care; every time, every touch.