The following are fictional characters created as composites of healthcare leaders Polaris has spoken with in recent executive searches. Their stories reflect real challenges and solutions we’ve encountered across the industry.
Mike Thompson, COO at Valley Healthcare System, speaks from the boardroom where strategy meetings have become survival sessions
Reporter: “What’s your secret to operational efficiency in tough times?”
“Remember when ‘collaboration with competitors’ was an oxymoron? Welcome to 2025, where your biggest rival might become your best business partner.” grins “I never thought I’d be having coffee with the COO from across town, but here we are, sharing laundry services and jointly negotiating with suppliers.”
“We created a shared radiology reading service with three other systems. Turns out, radiologists don’t actually need to be in the building at 3 AM—who knew? We split the overnight coverage costs and everyone gets better service. It’s like healthcare speed dating, but with MRI machines.”
“Then I discovered our revenue cycle team had hidden talents. I gave them better technology and training, and suddenly they’re like claims ninjas. Clean claims submission rates up 40%, denials down by half. Every overturned denial feels like a small victory against the insurance overlords. My team now calls themselves the ‘Revenue Recovery Squad’—they even made t-shirts.”
Dear Reader: What operational partnerships have surprised you? Any revenue cycle victories worth celebrating?