Integrating Community Insight and System Strategy to Build a Sustainable Freestanding Emergency Department Model

This session will outline a comprehensive framework for developing a community-centered healthcare access model that aligns community strategy, hospital mission and operational excellence.

Community Strategy: The approach begins with a robust community needs assessment using data to understand health indicators, social determinants and service gaps to identify where interventions can have the greatest impact. Prioritization is driven by feasibility and urgency—addressing high-need areas like chronic disease management, maternal health and urgent care access. Deep community engagement ensures sustainability through advisory boards, listening sessions and transparent communication. Employing residents as navigators or community health workers builds trust, enhances cultural alignment and promotes community ownership.

Health System Strategy: The health system strategy will emphasize alignment between mission, regional growth and market opportunity. Analysis of demand, payer mix and site selection ensures that new facilities strengthen access, brand equity and financial sustainability, while addressing potential healthcare deserts. ROI is evaluated not only in financial terms but also through population health improvement, workforce development and strengthened community trust. The health system strategy will ensure scalability of programs through multiple phases of development. Public-private partnerships and grant funding expand impact while mitigating investment requirements and risk.

Operational Strategy: Implementation focuses on efficient facility design, technology integration and scalable service delivery. A high-performing care model ensures 24/7 readiness, streamlined workflows and continuous quality improvement. Metrics such as door-to-provider time, patient satisfaction and clinical compliance guide ongoing performance. Comprehensive staff preparation and care coordination transitions underpin readiness for both daily operations and surge capacity.