Catholic Health USA Podcast

As the national conversation around HR1, Medicaid and health care access continues, Catholic health care continues to affirm its belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality, affordable care. As this episode's guest highlights, that includes those in rural communities.Luis A. Rojas, MD, FACOG, Clinical Vice President of Oncology Service Line at Avera, joins the show to discuss the system's efforts at serving cancer patients in their most rural communities. Dr. Rojas highlights both Avera's procedures and investment in innovative technology, and their belief in the mission of Catholic health care as a way to serve everyone, no matter where they live.  

Like all popular trends, it's easy to adopt the latest and "greatest" technology as soon as it's released into the world. But what responsibility do Catholic health systems have in evaluating what changes they need to make? What - and who - is top of mind when these decisions are made?Michael Sellers, Vice President of Facilities Management for Saint Anthony Hospital in Chicago, joins the show to discuss the facilities and operations perspective on changing health care technology. Sellers discusses Saint Anthony's recent innovations, their community-based strategy for making needed upgrades, and the importance of operations as a voice at the decision-making table.

Technological advances are nothing new for caregivers, who have been saturated with new tools to "help" them for decades. But are those tools actually helping? And what can the latest innovations do to alleviate the burden caregivers face on a day-to-day basis?Dr. Heather Schmidt, System Medical Director, Healthy Work and Wellness at SSM Health, and Dr. Ann Cappellari, Chief Medical Information Officer and System Vice President at SSM Health, join the show to discuss their findings on how artificial intelligence can assist caregivers in their well-being. They discuss how technology has often added to the administrative burden caregivers face, offer insight into tools that  help caregivers connect with their patients, and share how AI can help with the workforce shortages that American health care faces.  

When we hear the word technology, we tend to think about computers, software, artificial intelligence, etc. But one form of technology that we tend to overlook has been a part of our lives for centuries: pharmacy.Jeffrey Bishop, MD, Ph.D, Tenet Endowed Chair of Bioethics and Professor of Philosophy, Health Care Ethics and Philosophy at St. Louis University, joins the show to discuss how we can think critically about pharmaceuticals as technology. He discusses the etymology of the word "pharmacy," shares how power dynamics play into the decisions we make and offers advice on how to make sound, informed decisions about the drugs we take.

Medicaid covers 1 in 5 American adults, nearly half of all children in America and 41 percent of births in America. But despite acting as a lifeline for many Americans, the program is under threat of significant cuts from the federal government.In a Health Calls special, CHA's Senior Director of Government Relations Paulo Pontemayor and Barbara DiPietro, PhD, Senior Director of Policy at the National Health Care for the Homeless Council, join the show to discuss the importance of Medicaid. They discuss how potential changes to the Medicaid program would impact American families, employment and community health. They also share how listeners can advocate for the program and the families that depend on it for vital health care coverage.ResourcesVisit CHA's "Medicaid Makes It Possible" page to learn how you can take action for MedicaidWatch and share CHA's new informational Medicaid videoAdvocate for Medicaid coverage to your elected representatives by calling the House switchboard at (202) 224-3121 

If Catholic health care providers want to treat the whole person, then spiritual care is a vital piece of that puzzle. So in an age when virtual health care is becoming more and more prevalent, how do we also expand the reach of virtual spiritual care?Justin Martin, Director of Spiritual Care Innovation and Transformation at Mercy in St. Louis, Mo., returns to Health Calls to talk about his teams' latest efforts in the virtual spiritual care space. He discusses Mercy's transition from the COVID Care @ Home program, how the system pivoted to in-house technological solutions, and how to maintain trust with patients who may mistrust technological advances.ResourcesLearn about Mercy's COVID Care @ Home program, which won CHA's 2023 Achievement Citation award 

In this second part of the discussion, Joe Kelly discusses the steps Mercy has taken to protect patient privacy, highlights partnerships that have kept them on the cutting edge and explains how Mercy's foundresses act as a guiding light for his team as they move forward.To listen to the first part of this discussion, click here.

Catholic health care providers face a unique challenge – synthesizing the realities of their unique mission and the need to be technologically innovative. How do you faithfully follow the call to continue Jesus's healing ministry and be as forward-thinking as possible?Joe Kelly, Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at Mercy, joins the show for a two-part episode. In part one, Kelly discusses his journey to the current role he occupies, how Mercy's mission colleagues play a role in the organization's perspective on data, and a Biblical parable that has proved to be a rich, theological foundation for their team to build on.

This is an updated version from our previous podcast posting with corrected audio - we apologize for the inconvenienceWhen it comes to learning about and treating the communities we serve, data is the key. But with so much data out there, how do Catholic health providers begin to sort through it all and make sense of what they find?Jaime Dircksen, Vice President of Community Health and Well-Being at Trinity Health, joins the show to discuss how she and her team utilize data to best serve Trinity Health's patient populations. She discusses key indicators they look for, how different customizable tools can help or harm the process and how generative AI and emerging technologies offer hope and caution to caregivers looking to better connect with their patients.ResourcesRead Dircksen's recent article in Health Progress, "New Ways to Measure Impact in Communities"Purchase or download CHA's A Guide for Planning and Reporting Community BenefitPlan to attend Community Benefit 101, CHA's vital annual program which provides the basics of community benefit programming

When it comes to learning about and treating the communities we serve, data is the key. But with so much data out there, how do Catholic health providers begin to sort through it all and make sense of what they find?Jaime Dircksen, Vice President of Community Health and Well-Being at Trinity Health, joins the show to discuss how she and her team utilize data to best serve Trinity Health's patient populations. She discusses key indicators they look for, how different customizable tools can help or harm the process and how generative AI and emerging technologies offer hope and caution to caregivers looking to better connect with their patients.ResourcesRead Dircksen's recent article in Health Progress, “New Ways to Measure Impact in Communities”Purchase or download CHA's A Guide for Planning and Reporting Community BenefitPlan to attend Community Benefit 101, CHA's vital annual program which provides the basics of community benefit programming

Three-dimensional printing technology has been around for decades, but has seen a rapid expansion into commercial, manufacturing and industrial use over the past few years. As it makes its way into health care, what benefits could this relatively new technology offer?Dr. Kevin Chen, Chief of Pediatric Surgery at Cardinal Glennon and Surgical Director of the 3D Lab at SSM Health, joins the show to discuss the use of 3D printing in his everyday work. Dr. Chen discusses how it can be used as an educational tool, how it affects the patient-caregiver relationship and where the technology can go in the future.ResourceRead the Catholic Health World story from July 2024 covering Dr. Chen's work at the SSM Health 3D Lab

Every day, new technologies are making their way into health care settings. Whether it's AI recorders and transcribers or robotic surgical tools, it's a reality that providers and systems must face.Cyril Philip, Vice President of Digital Ventures at Bon Secours Mercy Health and Digital Ventures Lead at Accrete Health Partners, joins Health Calls to discuss the logistical benefits that introducing these technologies can have for care providers. He offers insight into how workflow can be optimized, how patient interactions can be prioritized and how systems can wisely manage the influx of new data and tech.ResourcesRead Cyril's interview with MedCity News

This is an updated version from our previous podcast posting with the full episode - we apologize for the inconvenienceAs artificial intelligence is implemented into more and more aspects of health care, it can be difficult to keep up with the varying ethical considerations that arise. If Catholic health care is to thrive in this new era of technology, a robust theological perspective is necessary.Dan Daly, Executive Director of the Center for Theology and Ethics in Catholic Health, returns to Health Calls to discuss how Catholic health providers can find theological guidance and ethical clarity on technological questions. He discusses Pope Francis's perspective on AI, why human empathy is crucial, and why efficiency and profit cannot be the ministry's ultimate goals.ResourcesVisit the Center for Theology and Ethics in Health Care's new websiteRevisit Dan Daly's previous Health Calls episode on the Center's mission and values

As artificial intelligence is implemented into more and more aspects of health care, it can be difficult to keep up with the varying ethical considerations that arise. If Catholic health care is to thrive in this new era of technology, a robust theological perspective is necessary.Dan Daly, Executive Director of the Center for Theology and Ethics in Catholic Health, returns to Health Calls to discuss how Catholic health providers can find theological guidance and ethical clarity on technological questions. He discusses Pope Francis's perspective on AI, why human empathy is crucial, and why efficiency and profit cannot be the ministry's ultimate goals.ResourcesVisit the Center for Theology and Ethics in Health Care's new websiteRevisit Dan Daly's previous Health Calls episode on the Center's mission and values

Emerging technologies can help health care providers with a multitude of daily tasks from efficient data processing to helping doctors with bedside conversations. But can it be used in the realm of spiritual care and whole person care?Theresa Vithayathil Edmondson, Vice President of Spiritual Health for Providence St. Joseph Health, and Antonina Olszewski, Vice President of Spiritual Care for Mission Integration at Ascension, join the show to discuss the latest trends in technology and spiritual care. The two highlight the recent work of CHA's Spiritual Care Advisory Council, explain why they feel hopeful about the future of AI in spiritual care settings, and reflect on how the foundresses and founders of Catholic health care can inspire us as we move boldly into the future.Resources Access the latest resources from CHA's celebration of Spiritual/Pastoral Care WeekLearn more about CHA's Spiritual Care Advisory Council here

As one of the country's highest producers of carbon emissions, health care has a special responsibility in helping solve the ongoing climate crisis. What opportunities exist for health systems to make immediate improvements to their carbon footprint, and how can they set themselves up for a sustainable future?Dan Misleh, co-founder of the Catholic Climate Covenant, joins Health Calls to talk about the many partnerships his organization is rallying around. He highlights the non-profit's Catholic Energies program, lists the financial benefits of making sustainable changes, and encourages Catholic health providers to think about how climate action can be a way to live out their mission.ResourcesRegister for CHA's Feast of St. Francis Webinar, Catholic Healthcare Sows Hope and Action for CreationGet involved with the organizations mentioned in today's episodeCatholic Climate CovenantCatholic EnergiesProject DrawdownDSIRE: Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency

When working with patients, it is essential for palliative care providers to have goal-oriented conversations. Without them, caregivers may not efficiently and collaboratively meet the patients' needs and goals for their own care. How can new technologies enhance these conversations, both from a productivity and a human relationship standpoint?Matthew Gonzales, MD, of the Institute for Human Caring at Providence, joins the conversation to discuss IHC, the center's successes, and its use of generative artificial intelligence. Gonzales lays out how “EmpathyAI” can enhance caregiver-to-patient interactions and lead to better outcomes for patients in a goal-aligned care model.ResourcesVisit the IHC's official website to learn more about its work

As the world of technology spins faster and faster, responses can vary to the rapid pace of change and innovation. Fear, excitement, caution – everyone has an idea of how to respond. What does Catholic tradition and faith have to say?Dr. Joseph Vukov, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Loyola University of Chicago and author of Staying Human in an Era of Artificial Intelligence, joins Health Calls to offer his thoughts on what Catholicism has to offer to this technological moment. Dr. Vukov and Brian discuss specific ways that technology can benefit and disrupt the mission of Catholic health care, all while keeping in mind the truth of what it means to be “human” in a digital age.ResourcesPurchase Dr. Vukov's book, Staying Human in an Era of Artificial Intelligence

It's easy to feel overwhelmed by technology, especially when change and innovation seem to come so rapidly.Tom Koulopoulos, founder and chairman of the Delphi Group and author of Reimagining Health Care, joins Health Calls for the premiere of Season Five, "Technology and Humanity." Koulopoulos discusses how he began to research health care as a futurist and why he thinks providers have an immense opportunity to utilize technological innovation to their advantage. He also names potential pitfalls of technological dependence while giving an optimistic outlook on the future of health care technology.If you enjoyed this episode, you can subscribe to Health Calls on any of your favorite podcast streaming services or on our website, www.chausa.org/podcast. Give us a five-star rating while you're at it… we'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas about what conversations we should have next!ResourcesVisit Tom Koulopoulos's website to purchase Reimagining Health Care or his latest book GigatrendsRead the Catholic Health World story covering Tom's keynote speech at the 2024 Catholic Health AssemblySubscribe to Catholic Health World for the latest stories on tech trends and innovations around the Catholic health ministry

As Catholic health providers navigate an increasingly complex world, the value of clinical ethics cannot be understated. But the world of ethics is complicated itself: How do we give equal time to both clinical care and consultation as well as academic research, peer review and church relationships?Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM, President and CEO of the Catholic Health Association, and Dan Daly, the founding Executive Director of the brand new Center for Theology and Ethics in Catholic Health, join Health Calls to discuss the new center being launched in Summer 2024. Sr. Mary explains the work that went into The Center's development, Dan gives his background in ethics and Catholic health care, and both share their vision for how The Center could operate as a go-to resource for Catholic health providers in the near future.ResourcesRead Catholic Health World's story on Dan Daly's appointment as The Center's founding Executive DirectorRead Boston College's release on Dan Daly's appointment 

Join us for a dynamic discussion on the impact of ministry formation on the colleague experience, featuring Darren Henson, Senior Director of Ministry Formation at CHA, Pete Guarisco, VP of Mission at Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, and Rafael Flores, Director of Mission Integration at FMOL Northshore Region. Discover FMOL's deep commitment to ministry formation across the system and its profound significance in upholding the legacy of their ministry's founding congregations. Gain insights into the diverse approaches to formation and how they shape colleague experiences, interactions, and the delivery of care. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the transformative power of ministry formation in health care.

Nate Hibner, Ph.D., Senior Director of Ethics and Editor of Health Care Ethics USA (HCEUSA) at CHA and Nicholas Kockler, Ph.D., MS, HEC-C, Vice President of System Ethics Services at Providence St. Joseph Health in Renton, Washington, join Health Calls for an enlightening discussion, exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and Catholic social teaching, the topic of Kockler's recent HCEUSA article. Discover how Catholic social teaching serves as a moral compass for navigating the complexities of AI, illustrating how AI can transcend being a mere tool and become an extension of our commitment to societal betterment by emphasizing values such as human dignity and the common good. Gain insights into the importance of forging partnerships in Catholic health care to ensure that AI is grounded in real-world needs.  Resource:Generating Insights from Catholic Social Teaching: Ethical Guidelines for Artificial Intelligence in Health Care Ministries by Nicholas Kockler, Ph.D., MS, HEC-C - HCEUSA Fall 2023

Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D., CHA's Senior Director of Mission Innovation and Integration and Ann Garrido, author of Redeeming Power: Exercising the Gift as God Intended and associate professor of homiletics at Aquinas Institute of Theology in St. Louis, join Health Calls to discuss the importance of a leader's positive worldview in effectively navigating change. In this enlightening conversation, they explore the concept of "a spirituality of power," highlighting how managerial courage and visionary leadership appear in daily interactions within an organization. They delve into the transformative power of ongoing reflection and examine how Jesus understood and exercised power. By considering the relational nature of power, Gonzales and Garrido offer insights into how a leader's understanding of power informs their role in promoting human flourishing and working for the common good.Resources:Embracing Change: It's Who We Are by Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D. – Health Progress Spring 2024  Redeeming Power: Exercising the Gift as God Intended by Ann M. Garrido 

Research is a key component of any health system. So, when it comes to serving rural areas, how do these systems reach patients and populations that may otherwise be left out of the research process?Valerie Schremp Hahn, Associate Editor of Catholic Health World, and Amy Elliott, PhD, the Avera Research Institute's Chief Clinical Research Officer, join Health Calls to discuss Hahn's recent article covering Elliott's work for Avera's mobile research lab. Elliott walks through the process of funding the lab, the challenges of operating it and how being on the road brings a wealth of opportunities to rural communities.

One of the most critical aspects of global health practice is creating and fostering good relationships. Having trusted partners around the globe not only allows us to get the proper resources where they need to go, but also facilitates opportunities for mutual learning.Bruce Compton, CHA's Senior Director of Global Health, and Edmund Nigel Ramsay Crisp, The Lord Crisp KCB, House of Lords, United Kingdom and former Chief Executive of England's National Health Service, join Health Calls to discuss ways we can learn from each other in our shared goal of increasing health equity across the globe. Lord Crisp recounts lessons he learned from his time spent as the Chief Executive of the NHS, as well as the benefits of doing work outside your home country. Compton also adds insight into CHA's new discussion paper, The Future of Health Workforce: Insights and Opportunities to Transform International Health Workforce Recruitment and Capacity.ResourcesAccess CHA's new Global Health discussion paper hereVisit CHA's Global Health page for more resources and insights into Global Health policy

As health systems work to eliminate inequities in the communities they serve, are we doing all that we can to establish trustworthiness with those communities? What if there is already a lack of trust between provider and patient?Betsy Taylor, Editor of Health Progress and Philip Alberti, Ph.D., Sr. Director of Health Equity Research and Policy and Founding Director of the AAMC Center for Health Justice, join the show to discuss Dr. Alberti's recent article in Health Progress. Dr. Alberti describes why he prefers the term 'vital conditions' to 'social determinants' and offers his insights on how and how not to build and maintain trustworthiness with communities.ResourcesRead Dr. Alberti's article in Health Progress, "Building Health Communities Requires Trustworthiness"Visit CHA's Community Benefit page for up-to-date resources

Treating neurodivergent patients is a complicated process. How do we approach the spectrum of neurodivergence with the care, compassion, and intentionality that it deserves?Betsy Taylor, editor of Health Progress, Dr. Jeremy Chapman, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at SSM Health Treffert Studios, Meg Puddy, Director of Behavioral Health at SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac, and Spencer Depies, Technician at SSM Health Treffer Studios, all join Health Calls to discuss Treffert Studios' unique approach to caring for neurodivergent patients. Dr. Chapman discusses the key tenants of the Treffert approach, Meg Puddy recounts her personal experiences with Dr. Treffert, and Spencer Depies gives specific examples of how Treffert Studios offers its patients opportunities to flourish.ResourceRead the recent Health Progress article on the Treffert Studios

Do you know what a “double-duty caregiver” is? Chances are that if you work in health care, you know a few of them… and you may even be one yourself!Betsy Taylor, editor of Health Progress, and Debra Kelsey-Davis, co-founder of Nourish for Caregivers and Sagacity.Care, join the show to discuss Kelsey-Davis's recent article for the fall issue of Health Progress. They discuss how COVID-19 impacted the stress levels of double-duty caregivers, raising awareness and how Catholic health systems can better care and advocate for the double-duty caregivers working in the ministry.Resources Read Debra Kelsey-Davis's article, “Double-Duty Caregiving: Clinicians Caring for Others at Work and Home Need Support” for Health ProgressVisit the Nourish for Caregivers website

World AIDS Day is commemorated every year on Dec. 1. As we approach this year's observance, how do the stories of those who pioneered care for AIDS patients inform our care today?Paulo Pontemayor, CHA's Senior Director of Government Relations, and Michael O'Loughlin, national correspondent for America magazine and author of Hidden Mercy, join the show to discuss O'Loughlin's contributions to Hold Out Your Hand, a new resource offered by CHA. O'Loughlin discusses his work telling the stories of Catholic caregivers during the AIDS crisis and offers thoughts on how these stories can inspire Catholic health care providers to care for the marginalized in the future.ResourcesListen to Plague, a podcast produced by America Media and hosted by Michael O'LoughlinRead Hidden Mercy, Michael O'Loughlin's book on stories of Catholics and the AIDS crisisRead this story about St. Mary's CARE Center from Catholic Health World

Pope Francis recently released his new apostolic exhortation, Laudate Deum, calling for a renewed sense of urgency in combatting climate change. As he cites overwhelming scientific evidence that the world is facing a climate crisis that is caused by human activity, how should Catholic health care best respond to this urgent Apostolic exhortation?Indu Spugnardi, Director of Advocacy and Resource Development for CHA, and Fr. Daniel Horan, Professor of Philosophy, Religious Studies and Theology at St. Mary's College and Director of the Center for the Study of Spirituality, join the show to discuss the new apostolic exhortation and Fr. Daniel's coverage of the release for the National Catholic Reporter. Fr. Daniel discusses our relationship to the world around us, the document's inspiration from St. Francis of Assisi, and having hope for the future.ResourcesRead Laudate Deum at the Vatican's official websiteRead Fr. Daniel's column on Laudate Deum at the National Catholic ReporterVisit CHA's Environment page for more resourcesSign up for the Laudato Si' Action Platform

As health care systems look to develop healthy partnerships across the globe, environmental impacts must become a factor to consider. How do we partner with organizations in a way that isn't harmful to communities already experiencing the effects of climate change?Erica Smith, Executive Director of Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, and Bruce Compton, Sr. Director of Global Health and International Outreach at CHA, join Health Calls to discuss their recent international visits, developing partnerships that focus on lessening environmental impacts and how to effectively and safely donate material goods.ResourcesVisit Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach websiteCheck out CHA's Medical Surplus Recovery resources

Between hurricanes and heat waves, the effects of the climate crisis have never been more evident. How can health care systems make bold commitments that will make a difference in the fight against climate change?Ali Santore, Chief Advocacy and Social Responsibility Officer at Providence, and Beth Schenk, Chief Environmental Stewardship Officer at Providence, join Health Calls to discuss their system's pledge to be carbon-negative by 2030. They discuss the way the pledge has been integrated throughout leadership structures, the definition of "carbon negative" health care and how their climate impacts can be measured using data.

Patients with chronic illnesses want what any patient seeking health care wants: to improve their health without exhaustive treatment. Unlike the majority, however, these patients face specific barriers to achieving that care.Betsy Taylor, editor of Health Progress, and Tricia Steele, author of the Sick Person Guide e-book series, join Health Calls to discuss Steele's recent article for Health Progress. Steele discusses her experiences as a patient advocate and ways that health care delivery isn't equipped to meet specific patients' needs and proposes steps that health systems can take to better care for those with chronic illnesses."What Patients With Chronic Illness Want Providers to Know" (Health Progress, Summer 2023)

Studies suggest that whole-person health care isn't limited to physical health but also includes mental and spiritual well-being. So why is spiritual care more difficult to find coverage for?Lisa Eisenhauer, Editor of Catholic Health World, joins the show to discuss an article written for the paper by Dennis Heaphy, Health Justice Advocate and Researcher at the Massachusetts Disability Policy Consortium, and Sasha Shenk, Sr. Research Technician at Tufts University. Heaphy and Shenk talk about their article and the benefits of offering Medicaid for spiritual care, and Teresa Anderson, Mission Leader at Trinity Health PACE and Trinity Health at Home, describes how Trinity Health tries to implement extended coverage into their work.

The Ethical and Religious Directives have been a popular topic of conversation in health care circles for the past year. But what if we stopped viewing them simply as a list of do's and dont's, but as a living document articulating the mission and identity of Catholic health care?Betsy Taylor, editor of Health Progress, and Fr. Myles Sheehan, director of the Edmund D. Pellegrino Center for Clinical Bioethics and the David Lauler chair of Catholic Health Care Ethics at Georgetown University Medical Center, join the show to discuss the ongoing conversation around the ERDs and how they can fortify the identity of Catholic health care. Fr. Sheehan also speaks directly to several specific parts of the ERDs, giving a comprehensive view of the directives and guiding principles beneath them.

The road to health equity is long, and many hospitals and healthcare facilities are on different parts of the journey. How do we gauge best practices and strategies for different parties? Several guests join this episode of Health Calls to discuss ongoing efforts to help hospitals across the United States: Kathy Curran, Senior Director of Public Policy for the Catholic Health Association; Joy Lewis, Senior Vice President for Health Equity Strategies for the American Hospital Association, and Executive Director of the Institute for Diversity and Health Equity; and Leon Caldwell, Senior Director of Health Equity Strategies at the American Hospital Association. They discuss the history of the AHA's efforts and how the two associations have collaborated in the work of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

Much of the health care process happens virtually these days. In the Catholic health ministry, how does spiritual care play into this equation?In the first episode of Health Calls season four, Jill Fisk, CHA's Director of Mission Services, and Justin Martin, a board-certified chaplain at Mercy St. Louis, join the show to discuss spiritual care in a virtual age. They discuss Mercy COVID Care @ Home, a program which recently won CHA's Achievement Citation award, as well as the possibility of extending proactive chaplaincy services to different areas of care. Resources Mercy COVID Care @ Home: CHA's 2023 Achievement Citation Video "Mercy chaplains tap technology to connect with COVID Care @ Home patients" (Catholic Health World article)

Season Four of Health Calls, the podcast of the Catholic Health Association, kicks off on June 27! Subscribe now!

When we think of “long term care,” we may bring assumptions to the table about how patients are cared for or act. What happens when the care we provide challenges those assumptions?Julie Minda, Associate Editor of Catholic Health World, joins the show to discuss her recent article regarding Montessori principles used in memory care. Michelle Feller, Assistant Administrator at Ferncliff Nursing Home, and Cameron Camp, Co-Founder of the Center for Applied Research in Dementia, also join to discuss these methods, how they benefit long term care patients, and the process of implementing Montessori principles in existing facilities. ResourcesRead Julie Minda's article in Catholic Health World: “Ministry memory care facilities apply Montessori principles to increase resident engagement”Visit the Center for Applied Research in Dementia's website

As the war in Ukraine continues well over a year after Russia's invasion, humanitarian efforts continue in an effort to meet the growing needs of the Ukrainian people.Bruce Compton, CHA's Senior Director of Global Health, joins the show after his recent visit to Ukraine with partners from the International Catholic Migration Commission. In the conversation, Bruce shares the impact the trip had on him along with details about the Catholic church's work and how the people of Ukraine are displaying resilience in the face of war.

The work of equity in health care is never finished. After the initial buy-in and foundational changes, how do health systems continue to work toward equity for communities, patients and colleagues?Kathy Curran, CHA Sr. Director of Public Policy, and Ralph McCloud, Director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Catholic Campaign for Human Development, join the show to discuss Catholic health care's continued journey with other Catholic organizations toward health equity. They discuss the first two years of CHA's We Are Called initiative, the crucial role of Catholic social teaching, and how polarization and other challenges can be faced head-on.Resources CHA's A Guide for Planning & Reporting Community Benefit, revised in 2022 to incorporate equity and social determinants of health as community benefit prioritiesCHA's We Are Called web page"Health Equity - A Call To Seek and Tell the 'True Truth' of Injustice" (Health Progress, Spring 2023)Visit the USCCB's website for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development

It can be difficult to understand what's happening in Congress, especially in the lawmaking process – what policies are passing, what buzzwords actually mean and how does it affect the American people?Lisa Smith, CHA's Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy, and Paulo Pontemayor, CHA's Sr. Director of Government Relations, review the past year of health care advocacy and discuss some of the highlights of a busy year. They specifically address the much-discussed "Omnibus" bill that was passed in the final weeks of 2022, as well as policies relating to maternal health, environmental sustainability and health equity, among others.

With the 2022 midterm elections behind us, a reshaped Congress represents a new landscape and new challenges for health care advocacy.Lisa Smith, CHA's Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy, and Lucas Swanepoel, CHA's Sr. Director of Government Relations, join the show to discuss the new Congress and how the next two years could be challenging when passing policies. They also address CHA's new Advocacy Agenda and some of the top priorities for Catholic health care over the next two years.ResourcesCHA's Advocacy Agenda for the 118th Congress

Increased mindfulness is vital to our well-being, but it requires a significant time commitment. For those with full schedules, how do we begin to build these practices into our busy lives?In a Health Calls special, Diarmuid Rooney, CHA's Interim Vice President of Sponsorship and Mission Services, and Jill Fisk, CHA's Director of Mission Services, discuss the benefits and importance of incorporating mindfulness exercises into our every day lives. They suggest a few easy ways to get started before Diarmuid leads listeners in a simple exercise that will refresh your spirit.ResourcesA Fresh Approach to Well-being in Health Care: A Health Calls Special EpisodeVisit CHA's ReNew Year page to explore a new foundational approach to Well-being in Catholic Health Care.Utilize meditative resources from CHA such as our "Be Still" and "Peace in Anxiety" videos.Read Sarah Reddin's recent Health Progress article, "Flourishing Through Formation: Catholic Identity Is Reinforced With Thoughtful Approaches"Contemplative Outreach, a spiritual network committed to living the contemplative dimension of the GospelRead Margaret J. Wheatley's article, "Can We Reclaim Time to Think?" (Shambala Sun, Sept. 2001)

Maintaining our own well-being can be a challenge in a world where we're constantly bombarded with new ideas, challenges, and tasks. When everything feels so urgent, how do we re-orient our minds and take the time to slow down?In a Health Calls special, Diarmuid Rooney, CHA's Interim Vice President of Sponsorship and Mission Services, and Jill Fisk, CHA's Director of Mission Services, host an intentional, meditative conversation on well-being and its roots in Catholic health ministry. They discuss the Christian history of meditative practice as well as the benefits of mindfulness and meditation before Diarmuid leads listeners in a simple exercise that will refresh your spirit.ResourcesVisit CHA's ReNew Year page to explore a new foundational approach to Well-being in Catholic Health Care.Utilize meditative resources from CHA such as our "Be Still" and "Peace in Anxiety" videos.

In 2022, the Catholic Health Association's Board of Directors called for a new vision statement for the organization and Catholic health care as a whole, a significant step in the organization's 108-year history.Sr. Mary Haddad, President and CEO of CHA, and Laura Kaiser, FACHE, President and CEO of SSM Health and Chairperson of the CHA Board, join the show to discuss the motivation behind the visioning process, how they foresee alignment with CHA's core values and mission and how the new vision statement could be used by CHA and its members in the future.

As 2023 begins, organizations around the world are taking stock of what drives them: their mission, vision and values. In Catholic Health Care, a commitment to the ministry is paramount and should be part of such evaluations.Dennis Gonzales, Ph.D., CHA's Sr. Director of Mission Innovation and Integration, and Paul Wojda, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Theology at the University of St. Thomas, join the show to discuss CHA's re-imagined Ministry Identity Assessment. They describe the importance of the assessment in continuing Jesus' healing ministry as well as changes that have been made to help health systems self-assess in a digital age. 

Restoring the health of an entire community can feel like an impossible task. But what if the answer is in first “revillagizing” the neighborhoods of that community?Editor of Health Progress Betsy Taylor joins the show to discuss a recent article authored by Nadine Nadal, Director of Community Health Development at CHRISTUS Health. Nadal and Mack McCarter, Founder and Coordinator of Community Renewal International, also join the conversation to discuss the community mentioned in Nadal's article as well as best practices for restoring and collaborating with communities which have long been the recipients of inequitable care.ResourcesHealth Progress article: Friendship Houses, New Connections: CHRISTUS Health and Community Partners Work to Strengthen NeighborhoodsCommunity Renewal International website

Equity in the work force is a goal many institutions strive to accomplish, but is it possible without also addressing equity at the decision-making level? How does prioritizing board-level equity change the trajectory of an organization?Julie Trocchio, CHA's Senior Director of Community Benefit and Continuing Care, and Dora Barilla, Director and Co-Founder of HC2 Strategies, join the show to discuss the following: Barilla's work with the University of Providence, including the Community Health Investment Certificate program; prioritizing equity at the same level as patient safety; and how community health is impacted by diverse workforces.Resources“Boards Must Address Equity Competencies” (American Hospital Association)The Community Health Investment Certificate Program (University of Providence)CHA's Community Benefit Website

The COVID-19 pandemic cast a spotlight on labor practices in the United States, leading to a “great reckoning” in 2022. How does Catholic health care fit into the larger conversation about labor?Editor of Health Progress Betsy Taylor joins the show to discuss a recent article co-authored by Daniel Graff, director of the Higgins Labor Program at the University of Notre Dame, and Kelli Reagan, a consultant at the Francesco Collaborative. Graff and Reagan also join the conversation to discuss their work in the labor sector and how Catholic health care can serve as a trendsetter when it comes to just labor practices.ResourceHealth Progress article: Just Wages for the Workforce: Why Health Care Should Lead the Way

In times of financial hardship, it can be challenging to prioritize investments in projects make sweeping commitments to that address matters such as the climate crisis. But with health impacts related to environmental degradation becoming an increasing part of our daily lives, such investments have never been more important. Indu Spugnardi, CHA Director of Advocacy and Resource Development, and Gary Cohen, President of Health Care Without Harm, join the podcast to discuss the urgent need to prioritize environmental stewardship in health care work. They address financial incentives to advance environmental sustainability, areas where systems can make the most impactful changes, and the Laudato Si' Action Platform, a Vatican-led initiative to inspire radical change in the fight against climate change. ResourcesCHA's Environment pageLaudato Si': On Care for our Common Home (Pope Francis' 2015 encyclical)Watch “The Letter” a documentary commissioned from The Vatican about Laudato Si' and the ecological crisis facing our planetHealth Care Without Harm's Official WebsiteVisit COP27's official website to follow updates from the 2022 United Nations Climate ConferenceHow Health Care Can Lead the Way on Renewable Energy (Health Progress article authored by Gary Cohen)Combating Global Warming: Healthy Climate, Healthy People (Health Progress article authored by Gary Cohen)Thinking Green on Behalf of Patients and Workers (Health Progress article authored by Gary Cohen)