ABSTRACT

Health care providers who serve as trustees for hospitals and health systems bring a unique perspective and set of competencies that can enrich board discussions and improve decision making. This background serves these trustees well in fulfilling their duties in relation to quality and clinical accountability, operational and executive oversight, and mission maintenance. When it comes to crafting and implementing strategy, provider trustees are less well-prepared by their professional training to make a significant contribution. This chapter is aimed at closing the gap between professional training of providers and the role of trustees in strategic planning and oversight.