Building trust is a key focus for CIOs leading digital transformations, as discussed in a recent healthsystemCIO webinar featuring senior Robert Adamson, Joyce Oh, Jim Daly and Jordan Ruch. They emphasized the importance of relationship-building, transparent communication, and credibility in effective change management prior to formal announcements. Strategies for early engagement, such as involving IT leadership in strategic discussions, are essential for fostering collaboration and shared ownership among stakeholders. The panelists also highlighted the need for transparency and accountability when addressing setbacks, stressing that proactive communication and acknowledgment of mistakes can reinforce credibility and promote a learning culture within teams.

Building Trust: Key to Successful Digital Transformation for Health CIOs healthsystemcio.com

Ascension, a Catholic nonprofit health system based in St. Louis, is in advanced talks to acquire AmSurg, a leading operator of ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) with over 250 facilities nationwide. This potential acquisition signals Ascension's strategic shift towards enhancing its outpatient care capabilities within a healthcare landscape increasingly favoring cost-effective outpatient procedures. The move reflects a broader trend seen in the industry, particularly by Tenet Healthcare, which has successfully focused its growth on ASC investments. Acquiring AmSurg would not only expand Ascension’s presence in this market but also strengthen its competitive position against other major ASC operators.

Ascension Eyes AmSurg Acquisition to Boost Outpatient Care Strategy Becker's Hospital Review

Dartmouth Health Children's has introduced what it believes to be the first maternal mental health navigator role in the U.S., designed to assist new mothers experiencing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, which are major contributors to maternal suicide. The initiative is part of a year-long pilot program focused on creating a sustainable support model and fostering communication between mothers, healthcare providers, and community resources. Over the past five years, Dartmouth Health has implemented screening for mental health conditions in new mothers, connecting those in need with navigators like Heather Martin for assistance, therapy, and preventative care strategies.

Dartmouth Health Launches Pioneering Maternal Mental Health Navigator Role HealthLeaders

Following Cyberattacks, National Cyber Director Nominee Advocates for "More Aggressive" Stance

During a Senate homeland security committee hearing, Sean Cairncross, nominated for the role of national cyber director, advocated for offensive cyber strategies against foreign threats amid criticism regarding proposed budget cuts to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Despite his limited experience in cybersecurity, he argued for a more aggressive U.S. stance against adversaries, particularly following recent sophisticated cyberattacks. However, Senator Elissa Slotkin raised concerns about the administration's Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which proposed a nearly $495 million reduction for CISA and the loss of over 1,000 jobs, warning that such cuts could leave key sectors vulnerable to cyber threats and likening the situation to pre-9/11 security shortcomings. Cairncross struggled to defend the budget proposal amid alarms raised by lawmakers over the increasing risks of cyber incidents.

Senate Hearing Highlights Urgent Need for Aggressive Cyber Defense Strategy The Register