273: MaineHealth isn’t just surviving against the odds — it’s thriving

In 2025, health systems are facing a relentless set of headwinds—from policy upheaval and shifting demographics to rising costs and rural access challenges. For some organizations, these pressures form a perfect storm. At Advisory Board’s Chicago Summit, host Rachel (Rae) Woods sat down with MaineHealth COO Kelly Elkins to explore how the $4B, 13-hospital Academic system is navigating these pressures without defaulting to survival mode. MaineHealth has achieved three consecutive years of $100M margin improvement by focusing on operational efficiency, scenario planning, and a three-lane growth strategy: strengthening core services, expanding into ambulatory care, and investing in adjacent businesses. Learn more about their approach—including their partnership with Optum Advisory—to sustain and scale care delivery across Maine and New Hampshire. We’re here to help: MaineHealth | Working together so our communities are the healthiest in America Healthcare Policy Updates Timeline One Big Beautiful Bill Act: Understanding the healthcare impacts Strategic Planner's survey 2025 Want to be at our next live Radio Advisory recording? Learn more about upcoming Advisory Board events. A transcript of this episode as well as more information and resources can be found on RadioAdvisory.advisory.com.