Welcome to CEO Chat

A Conversation with Our Communities About Child Health Issues that Matter

Jim Shmerling, DHA, FACHE, President and CEO of Children's Hospital Colorado

Working in a children’s hospital is a privilege only a handful of healthcare workers are fortunate enough to experience. We assume an awesome responsibility when a parent or guardian entrusts their most precious gift, their child, to us. It takes a very special person to earn that trust and to work in such an environment. I have always believed that people who dedicate their careers to caring for others are special, but those who care for sick and injured children are extraordinary. It is with you, our extraordinary employees, medical staff and public, in mind that I am launching this blog.

I have never written a blog before, so this will be a new experience for me. It is my hope I can share my thoughts and ideas about where I think pediatric healthcare is headed and what our role as providers should be. In some cases, I will provide my perspective on external healthcare developments with the potential to affect children’s health. I also will discuss our core strategies that will proactively impact the health and welfare of our children.

So, why a blog? What makes this approach different is my intent to provide a two-way communication vehicle. I share with you; you share with me. In that way, it is my hope we keep each other informed. I will solicit your thoughts and promote dialogue on issues that may be sensitive or even controversial. Everyone will be invited to participate. I only ask that we keep it civil, not violate HIPAA or any staff member’s privacy, and be tolerant of one another’s perspective, even when - especially when - we may not see eye-to-eye. After all, we are an academic medical institution, so what better way to stay informed and on top of our game than through honest, informative discourse? Stay tuned!

Sincerely,