Bob Broadway, FHFMA
Ever since I became an HFMA member over 30 years ago, I have sought to serve the Association.
During my years with HFMA, we have always had “perpetual leadership”—members who have come forward at the chapter, regional, and national levels to offer countless hours of education and service and to connect with members throughout the Association. I am grateful for the leadership opportunities HFMA has given me and am indebted to everyone in this wonderful organization.
I have covered a lot of ground in my monthly columns during this year. One time, for instance, I shared with you the story of Clyde, a gentleman who did not understand his hospital bill. On other occasions, lions, gazelles, and stagecoaches found their way into my columns. Most important, however, I hope I have provided insight and information on how HFMA is there to be your indispensable resource. HFMA gives us the tools and information we all need to improve our organizations. My messages have emphasized how now, more than ever, we need to put these resources to use.
The past year has been one of great challenge for the healthcare industry. We have faced a major financial crisis. Our industry is struggling with decreasing volumes and rising costs. Access to capital is at the top of all healthcare executives’ concerns. We are working to address pricing issues to help us be more transparent.
But our industry is stronger because of you and your efforts. Healthcare financial managers make a difference in the business of caring. You have gone beyond the numbers to continue delivering quality health care in a personal way, demonstrating courageous leadership in these difficult times.
Volunteer leadership takes commitment, dedication, support, and sometimes sacrifice. My family has supported me all along the way. I am forever grateful to my mother, children, and loving wife, Kaye, for the support and sacrifice they made to allow me to serve HFMA for the past 30 years. HFMA has always been personal for me, and I love all of you very much. My CEO, Robert Hill, provided me with the support to be your Chairman. My staff was always there to keep everything going at the hospital. To all of the members of the Board, your thoughtful leadership and dedication gave me the confidence to lead HFMA, and I will cherish your friendship forever.
Cathy Jacobson will continue the tradition of exceptional leadership when she is installed as Chairman at our Annual National Institute in Seattle. She is dedicated to her family, hospital, and profession, and will further the vision of HFMA.
In his book The Last Lecture—which I highly recommend—Randy Pausch wrote that “by connections with others we become better people.” Making Connections was my way of communicating that, by connecting, HFMA members are better people. Always remember that, despite the many technical devices we use to stay connected each day, the most important connections we make are with each other. Thank you for allowing a barefoot boy from the beaches of Florida to lead HFMA by Making Connections.