By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN Health systems are facing serious headwinds this year with potential cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and the federal subsidy of health exchanges. A declining economy also threatens the jobs of a significant number of workers in the US and, with it, their health insurance. But these are not the only challenges. As part of budget … [Read more...]

By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN Americans are unhappy with the healthcare system. Recent data from Gallup and other polling services indicate that satisfaction with it has reached an all-time low, with 69% indicating they are either somewhat dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with US healthcare. Many factors contribute to these feelings, including unrealistic … [Read more...]

By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN Every year, Gallup polls the qualities the workforce globally looks for in leaders. The data is in for 2025, and the answer is that staff want to work for hopeful leaders. Four attributes—hope, trust, stability, and compassion—always track in the top four, but this year, the need for hope far exceeds the other three, with more than … [Read more...]

By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN January and February are proving to be very challenging times for hospitals across the United States. In record numbers, patients with COVID, the flu, RSV, and pneumonia are now being admitted. Becker's Hospital Review reported that flu cases have surged to numbers that have not been seen since 2009, and bed occupancy rivals the … [Read more...]