Dig Deeper
You’ve found an employer with whom to partner. Now you want to create a mutually beneficial relationship. Always offer something of value before asking for something of value (including time, attention, and money).
1. Offer a Seat at the Table. Garner buy-in and commitment by involving employers in an advisory capacity. You can create employer-only committees or include employers in the Alliance’s multi-stakeholder boards.
2. Be a Resource. Offer a valued service or information product. Services could include educational series like brown bag seminars or webinars. Products may include useful local health data, including customized reports.
3. Support Employee Engagement Efforts. Support employers’ interests in educating employees and their families about quality and cost by providing messaging, customizable materials, and easy access to comparative information. Cincinnati Aligning Forces for Quality provides materials to employer benefits managers to encourage patient engagement, makes presentations at employer health fairs, and hosts workplace lunch-and-learn events.
4. Manage the Relationship. To build a strong Alliance, talk openly and often about roles and expectations.
What is the secret sauce (of Alliance building)? It’s the patience to manage the goals, roles, and norms.
Denise Cavanaugh, Cavanaugh, Hagan, Pierson & Mintz, Inc.
What are some ways consumers can help improve health care?
Leadership positions and health care activism are a good start
What are the differences and similarities between consumer advocates and individual consumers?
Organizations need both to be successful.
How do consumers define health care “value”?
A patient-centered approach is a good place to start.
What are best practices for displaying comparative reports on public reporting websites?
Consumers prefer clarity
How do I retain consumers in my program?
Be supportive.
How do we help employers maintain their interest and energy in our partnership?
Be active and inclusive.
- Why do consumers need to know how much things cost?
- How do we help employers maintain their interest and energy in our partnership?
- What role do employers play in improving care quality?
- What frameworks can I use to engage and activate consumers?
- What are the benefits of personal health records?
- What is the Consumer Engagement Leadership Consortium?
- Where should I incorporate consumers into my practice or hospital?
- How do you explain the idea of “high-quality health care"?
- How do I clarify my role as a consumer within my organization or Alliance?
- How do I become a better consumer leader?