EPISODE · Aug 24, 2026 · 19 MIN
Patient experience built around human connection
from Knowledge on the Go · host Vizient Performance Improvement Collaborative
Patient experience is more than a measure of satisfaction. It is shaped by every interaction a patient and family have throughout their care. Suzanne Smith, System Director of Patient Experience at Main Line Health, joins host Shannon Hale to discuss how intentional communication, empathy and presence can improve patient experience. They explore Main Line Health’s ED Ambassador Program, its organization wide approach to patient experience and the small behaviors that can make a meaningful difference for patients, families and care teams. Guest Speaker: Suzanne Smith, M.Ed., CPXP System Director of Patient Experience Main Line Health Host: Shannon Hale, MHA, RN, CPHQ Senior Program Director, Performance Improvement Programs Vizient Show Notes: [00:48] How Main Line Health approaches patient experience as a partnership across quality, safety and care. [04:16] Supporting care teams by removing barriers, elevating the patient voice and using feedback to improve the patient journey. [07:48] Building an organization wide culture of patient experience through intentional communication, empathy and presence. [09:59] How ED ambassadors help patients and families navigate busy emergency departments while supporting clinical teams. [12:47] The real-world impact of an ED ambassador who helped a family navigate a traumatic emergency with clarity and compassion. [15:25] Starting discharge planning early so patients understand their care, know what comes next and feel confident asking questions. [17:04] Why clarity, empathy and small human behaviors can have a lasting impact on how patients experience their care. Links | Resources: Contacting Knowledge on the Go: [email protected] Subscribe Today! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Android RSS Feed
Embed this episode
Ready to play
Patient experience built around human connection
No transcript for this episode yet
Similar Episodes
No similar episodes found.
Similar Podcasts
No similar podcasts found.