When comparing and contrasting Cancer treatment Centers of America and HealthSouth
facilities what suggestions would you make to each organization in terms of developing
their management staff for future health care challenges?
The Cancer Treatment Centers of America and HealthSouth facilities each place their
organization’s primary focus on the patients they care for. Each organization’s mission and
vision is to treat each person as an individual with specific needs and feelings and not simply as
another face in the crowd. Possibly the most unique and interesting facet of the Cancer
Treatment of America facilities, is the fact that the organization presently employs numerous
modes of technology to inform individuals of their services; “Patients are drawn to CTCA
through its outreach program, which includes direct response television and Internet strategies
along with targeted media relations activities driven towards calling a toll-free number, sending
an e-mail request, or engaging in a secure, on line chat over the Internet” (Cisco Systems, 2008).
Because of this it is extremely important for both current and future management staff to be
familiar with the ever-changing modes of technology and communication strategies available to
disseminate this vital information to the public. Also, management must be able to pass this
information on to employees in an effective and knowledgeable manner in order to ensure that
the organization maintains the utmost standards in healthcare. Management staff must also be
well-informed in regards to treatment methods, alternate therapies and the psychological aspects
of being diagnosed with cancer; this will require individuals who possess appropriate training in
these areas and the willingness to continue their education both inside and outside of the
treatment centers.
HealthSouth facilities are one of the largest rehabilitation service organizations in the
country; their unique approaches to therapy allow those they treat to recover much faster than
traditional methods of rehabilitation. Similar to the Cancer Treatment Centers, the mission and
vision of HealthSouth is to treat their clients as individuals and they highly value their employees
at all levels throughout the organization; “Our employees are critical to our success as a
corporation. We will respect their individuality, recognize and reward their good performance,
provide opportunities for their growth and development and encourage their participation in the
decision-making process” (International Directory of Company Histories, 2000). In order to
prepare for future healthcare challenges, HealthSouth must ensure that their management staff is
comprised of individuals who possess an understanding of the importance of teamwork and the
necessity to continue the democratic environment of the organization. As with any healthcare
organization both management and staff should have a thorough knowledge and understanding
of technological advancements both in-office and in terms of up-and-coming rehabilitation
methods and devices used in treatment facilities. In both organizations, individuals in
management positions must always stay updated on new forms of treatment and therapies; they
must continue their own education in order to assist their employees in these areas. By being
prepared in advance for challenges in the future, managers can assure that their organizations run
smoothly and efficiently and that their employees remain well-versed and informed in regards to
all aspects of patient care and treatment.
References
Cisco Systems. (2008).Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Cisco Systems, Inc. Retrieved
October 24, 2010, from http://www.cisco.com/web/strategy/docs/healthcare/CancerTreatment.pdf
International Directory of Company Histories. (2000). HealthSouth Corporation -- Company
History. Funding Universe. Retrieved October 24, 2010, from
http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/HealthSouth-Corporation-CompanyHistory.html