The MaineHealth Podcast

Andy's Open Door Live Broadcast on 04-29-26 This episode of Andy's Open Door features a discussion with Vice President of Quality and Safety Mark Parker, MD, Lead Sonographer in the Southern Region Miranda Anderson and Quality leader from NorDx Julie Carrell, to discuss the role of Safety Stories in our culture of safety at MaineHealth and the new safety story library where the stories can be submitted and accessed. Julie and Miranda also shared their own incredible safety stories.

Today we welcome Joy Rhoden, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of Health Outcomes and Care Transformation at the American Hospital Association (AHA). Joy explains how hospitals can use standardized data, care-delivery transformation, community partnerships, and workforce activation to reduce health disparities. She highlights maternal and child health, rural innovations, telehealth, doulas and community health workers. She talks about AHA initiatives like a Commonwealth Fund grant, an EPIC postpartum hemorrhage collaborative, an upcoming Healthier Together conference, and a new economic-impact guide. The discussion emphasizes actionable tools, peer learning, policy advocacy, and scalable practices to help hospitals move from knowing the problem to measurable improvements in health outcomes for all. MaineHealth Public Health Grand Rounds: Join us for engaging discussions on today’s evolving public health landscape. Hosted by Dr. Dora Anne Mills, MaineHealth brings together national and local experts to explore critical public health issues impacting Maine and communities across the country. Virtual Public Health Grand Rounds is open to anyone interested in understanding the dynamic relationship between public health and health care.

Working Together with Kelly Elkins, Episode 85 In this episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins explores how the organization is rethinking revenue cycle and payer strategy to better support access, affordability, and long‑term sustainability. As denial rates rise, payment models shift, and administrative complexity increases, the conversation focuses on why revenue cycle can no longer be viewed as transactional—but instead as a strategic lever tied directly to quality, equity, and patient experience. The episode examines how aligning incentives, simplifying processes, and using data more proactively are helping MaineHealth balance financial stewardship with its mission to deliver high‑value care. Guest Kelly Champney Senior Vice President of Revenue Cycle and Payer Strategy for MaineHealth shares how this evolution is taking shape across the system, including managing risk‑based arrangements, strengthening payer partnerships, and reducing friction for patients and care teams. Together, they discuss what has changed, what remains challenging, and how a more integrated, forward‑looking approach to revenue cycle positions MaineHealth to sustain care delivery while advancing affordability, access, and outcomes for the communities it serves.

Welcome to episode 3 of Vitals and Voices, a MaineHealth nursing podcast, sharing the stories, perspectives, and expertise of nurses across our system with hosts Chris & Jordan. In this episode, long-tenured MHMMC Portland nurses Jackie and Sara reflect on 40 years of nursing—sharing early memories, patient stories, the shift from paper charts to electronic systems, and how they avoid burnout. The episode also features Holly discussing Donate Life Month, the importance of organ and tissue donation, and how donors give others a chance at new life.

Working Together with Kelly Elkins, Episode 84 In this episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins explores how Technology‑Enabled Care Innovation and Transformation (TECIT) is helping the system move innovation from concept to measurable impact—improving access, reducing variation, and ensuring long‑term sustainability. As MaineHealth continues to evolve, this conversation focuses on why technology must be purpose‑driven, aligned to strategy, and designed to simplify care for patients and care team members alike. The episode examines how a system‑wide approach to evaluating and scaling innovation helps ensure new solutions deliver real value across clinical, operational, and workforce priorities. Guest Colin FitzGerald, AI Solutions and Product Lead for MaineHealth, shares why TECIT was created, what problems it is designed to solve, and how the framework supports smarter decision‑making around technology investments. Together, they discuss how TECIT is being applied across care at home, primary care, specialty services, and beyond—and how this work positions MaineHealth to responsibly leverage innovation while advancing affordability, quality, and access for the communities it serves.

Curbside Consult, Episode 12 Together, Leah and Kristen lead the MaineHealth Medical Group’s Addiction Specialty Council. They join us to discuss the role primary care can play in treating substance use disorder (SUD) and to introduce the Stop SUD Stigma campaign, an effort to reduce the stigma that patients with substance use disorder can feel in healthcare settings.   Curbside Consult is a podcast from the MaineHealth ACO that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app, or on the MaineHealth intranet home page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

Working Together with Kelly Elkins, Episode 83 In this episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins explores how the Mountain Region’s updated leadership structure is designed to strengthen collaboration, streamline decision-making, and better support care team members across the region. As our system continues to grow and integrate, this episode looks at why clearer roles, aligned oversight, and more consistent organizational design are essential to improving access, quality, and the overall experience for patients and communities. They discuss how leadership alignment helps ensure the right decisions happen at the right level—and with the speed and clarity teams need. Guest Trampas Hutches, Regional President for the Mountain Region, shares the goals behind the redesign, what responsibilities are shifting to Community Presidents, and how regional oversight of shared-service areas like Imaging, EVS, Food & Nutrition, and Therapies will work in day‑to‑day operations. Together, they discuss how this structure supports MaineHealth’s broader strategy and the biggest opportunities ahead as the region enters this next chapter of operating as one MaineHealth.

Andy's Open Door on 03-25-26 This episode of AOD featured Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins and Chief People Officer Scott Ballard, who along with Caroline, discussed MaineHealth's operational transformation, covering regionalization, efficiency improvements, automation and AI, workforce tools, and how changes affect care teams and patient safety. They discussed where we are in the operational transformation process and where we are headed as we adapt and grow in a changing health care environment. The episode also highlights the launch of the Our Place employee giving program, answers care team questions about scheduling systems, policy updates, cybersecurity, and sustainability.

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, episode 82 In this episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins explores why care navigation has become a critical need for our employer community and care team members—and how MaineHealth is responding through MaineHealth Care Solutions. As rising costs, access challenges, and complexity continue to affect care team members, patients and families, this episode takes a closer look at how improved navigation can reduce frustration, support better health outcomes, and strengthen trust in care. They discuss the role of navigation in getting the right care at the right time and place. Guests Bill Whitmore, MaineHealth Vice President of Business Transformation, and Beth Ray, MaineHealth Manager of Clinical Care Navigation, share why the program was created, who it serves, and what care team members can expect when they reach out for support. Together, they discuss how MaineHealth Care Solutions fits into MaineHealth’s broader strategic goals and what success looks like in the program’s first year and beyond.  

Welcome to episode 2 of Vitals and Voices, a MaineHealth nursing podcast, sharing the stories, perspectives, and expertise of nurses across our system.  In this episode, Chris and Jordan talk with Clinical Nurse Educator Angela Cyr as she explains what nursing certifications are, why they matter, how they support career advancement and patient care, and which resources MaineHealth offers to help nurses pursue certification. The episode also features a spotlight on Vocational Rehabilitation Services during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Chris has a conversation with Jessica Minor to talk about how someone with developmental disabilities could be an asset to your workforce.

Episode 81: Thriving Together: MaineHealth’s Wellness Journey  At MaineHealth, wellness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a commitment woven into the fabric of our culture. We are creating a holistic approach to health that empowers every team member to live well—at work and beyond. In this episode, Christine Hein, MD, Chief Wellness Officer, and Tom Kivler, Director of Care Team Wellness discuss the programs and strategies that help our providers and care team members thrive. They discuss real examples—team huddles, peer support, night‑shift initiatives, and G.R.O.S.S. projects—along with the key metrics (safety, retention, engagement) and bold pilot ideas to reduce burnout and strengthen team resilience.

MaineHealth Behavioral Health child psychiatrist Dr. Melissa Bowker-Kinley joins Heather and Mike with tips on supporting pediatric patients with common conditions including anxiety and ADHD. They also discuss current therapeutic approaches, navigating behavioral health referrals and the importance of family involvement in treatment.  Curbside Consult is a podcast from the MaineHealth ACO that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app, or on the MaineHealth intranet home page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

Welcome to the premiere episode of Vitals & Voices: A MaineHealth Nursing Podcast! In this episode, hosts Chris and Jordan sit down with Vicky English (Nursing Professional Development Specialist) and Monique Gilbert (Clinical Nurse Educator) to talk about some of the differences between an NPDS and a CNE, and the ways nursing education can help you build your career beyond year one. And February brings Valentine's Day and Heart Month. We talked to a cardiac nurse about some heart healthy tips, including the impact of love on wellbeing. 

This episode of Andy's Open Door features an innovative discussion with Aji Djamali, MD, the Chair of the Department of Medicine at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Portland. Andy and Aji talk about Precision Medicine at MaineHealth, how it will revolutionize the way we deliver individualized care and the plan for implementation across our system. Andy opens the program with an update on the status of York Hospital becoming part of MaineHealth. He also addresses four major forces that are significantly impacting MaineHealth now and for years to come as we navigate who we are and who we want to become as an organization. Dr. Djamali explains MaineHealth’s precision medicine pilot — starting with primary care, offering whole-genome screening to a pilot group, integrating genomics, biomarkers and AI, and expanding to research and specialty care — and addresses equity, privacy, workforce, and cost concerns.

As we look ahead in 2026, MaineHealth remains focused on advancing policies that support access, affordability, and healthier communities across the state. More than ever, our advocacy priorities are critical to delivering on our vision and responding to a rapidly changing policy landscape.  In this episode of the Working Together podcast, Katie Harris, Chief Government Affairs Officer for MaineHealth discusses the system’s 2026 advocacy agenda. We explore key policy issues at the state and federal levels, the role of partnerships and coalitions, and how targeted policy solutions—from payment reform to rural health investments—can help strengthen care for patients and communities. 

At MaineHealth, we’re diving into one of the most transformative efforts in modern medicine: Genomics and Precision Medicine.  In this episode of Working Together, Adrian Moran, MD Chief Medical and Transformation Officer for MaineHealth and Aji Djamali, MD Vice President & Chair of the Department of Medicine for MaineHealth Maine Medical Center explore the “why” behind this new initiative at MaineHealth, the partnerships fueling its growth and the roadmap for integrating genomics into primary care, oncology, and beyond. Kelly and guests also discuss what this means for clinicians, patients, and the future of healthcare delivery in rural settings. 

This episode of Andy's Open Door featured an insightful discussion with Erin Brown, Chief Development Officer. Andy and Erin talked about changes in Philanthropy and Development at MaineHealth, recent and upcoming major projects and the importance of donor support to MaineHealth now and in the future. They also answered a variety of care team questions submitted to the AOD mailbox. Andy started the program by sharing his 2026 New Year’s Resolution which is organizationally-focused on positively identifying patients in alignment with our red rule, PPID. He also addressed recent changes in vaccine recommendations and thanked care team members for their hard work amidst an influx of patients from flu and other illnesses.

In the January episode, Dr. Katie Manning focuses on heart failure management and the collaboration between primary care and cardiology. The conversation covers the early signs of heart failure, the importance of primary care in managing these patients, and the challenges of medication access. Dr. Manning emphasizes the need for effective communication and collaboration between healthcare providers to improve patient outcomes, as well as the significance of incorporating goals of care conversations into treatment plans.  Curbside Consult is a podcast from the MaineHealth ACO that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult on your favorite podcast app, on the MaineHealth intranet home page, or at the Curbside Consult website. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

In this episode of Andy's Open Door, Andy facilitated a discussion about Provider Wellness with Christine Hein, MD, Chief Wellness Officer, Ranjiv Advani, MD, Director of Provider Wellness, Coastal and Mountain regions and Stephanie Gray, PA, Director of Provider Wellness, Southern Region. Andy and the panelists also answered care team questions submitted to the AOD mailbox. Our panelists discussed what provider wellness means, what contributes to burnout, and looked at MaineHealth provider’s satisfaction compared to national benchmarks. They also outlined their approach to improving provider wellness across the system and resources that are available now.

At MaineHealth we’re diving into the future of healthcare with our Virtual Quick Care service. As technology transforms the way we access medical services, Virtual Quick Care is making it easier than ever for patients to connect with providers, get timely advice, and receive treatment from the comfort of their own homes.   In this episode, Tracy Jalbuena, MD, Medical Director MaineHealth Virtual Care Administration and Melissa Victory, Director MaineHealth Virtual Care the MaineHealth Medical Group explain how Virtual Quick Care at MaineHealth is reshaping patient experiences, improving access, and driving innovation across the healthcare landscape. 

Lizzy Mulcahy, FNP, vice president for Telehealth and Virtual Care at MaineHealth, discusses how virtual care continues to transform access, especially for rural communities across Maine. The conversation also explores new models for bringing specialty care closer to home and the role AI may play in improving the patient experience.   Curbside Consult is a podcast from the MaineHealth ACO that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here, on your favorite podcast app, or on the MaineHealth intranet home page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

At MaineHealth, our people make all the difference. That’s why we’ve introduced the MaineHealth Excellence Awards, a program that recognizes care team members who embody our values and set the standard for excellence across our system. In this new episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins, Denise Needham, President of MaineHealth Pen Bay and Waldo Hospitals, and Cornelius Ferreria, MD, Chief Medical Officer for the MaineHealth Medical Group, discuss why these awards matter. They share inspiring stories of this year’s honorees and explore how recognition drives engagement, innovation, and exceptional care.

As MaineHealth continues to unify operations and scale strategic initiatives, the need for a centralized, high-performing Enterprise Project Management Office, or EPMO, has never been more important. From standardizing tools and methodologies to enabling cross-functional collaboration and change management, the EPMO is more than a department—it’s a system-wide commitment to excellence, accountability, and transformation. In this new Working Together episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins, Vice President of Operations Transformation Celia Shaughnessy and Senior Director Project Management Marrisa Ilsley explore how MaineHealth is building the backbone of its future—one project at a time.

Our November Andy's Open Door program featured a discussion with Dr. Kristen Silvia and Dr. Leah Bauer on MaineHealth’s efforts to destigmatize substance use disorder (SUD). Andy and the panelists also answered care team questions submitted to the Ask Andy mailbox. Kristen and Leah provided a high-level overview of SUD, explained both the Comprehensive Addiction Medicine (CAM) and Comprehensive Addiction Psychiatry (CAP) programs, and had a robust conversation about stigma. They presented the new Stigma Reduction Toolkit which includes tips on the language we should use about substance use and a pledge that care team members and providers can sign to commit to creating a stigma-free environment for our communities.

Recorded live at the Advisory Board Summit, MaineHealth COO Kelly Elkins discusses how the academic health system is responding to mounting headwinds — from Medicare Advantage and Medicaid cuts to research funding risks — by focusing on operational optimization, expanding care outside the hospital, and building adjacent revenue streams. Kelly explains the six-point operational push (throughput, length of stay, perioperative flow, ED efficiency, post-acute partnerships, and care variation reduction), the move into retail urgent care and ASCs, and why the organization is planning and investing as if it is already 2027—acting now as though the most challenging scenarios have already arrived so the health system can adapt and thrive no matter what comes next.  She also discussed three themes shaping MaineHealth’s strategy – Core Business (how the health system is optimizing its hospitals and clinics to meet high demand and maintain stability), Emerging Core (work to expand care beyond the hospital walls to better serve communities and position MaineHealth for the future), and Adjacent Business Lines (steps MaineHealth is taking to diversify revenue and foster innovation). 

In the November episode, hosts Heather Ward and Mike Clark engage with Dr. Dylan McKenney, the medical director of MHACO’s Behavioral Healthcare Program. They discuss the evolving landscape of behavioral health, the integration of mental health services into primary care, and the innovations in treatment delivery, including telehealth and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration between primary care and behavioral health providers, emerging therapies, and the potential impact of AI on mental health diagnosis and treatment  Curbside Consult is a podcast from the MaineHealth ACO that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

Back by popular demand, today's Andy's Open Door (AOD) featured a panel discussion with Chief People Officer Scott Ballard, Vice President of Total Rewards Sue Pelletier and Senior Director of Compensation Tammy Broadhurst. Andy and the panelists addressed a wide range of HR topics and answered care team questions submitted to the Ask Andy mailbox. Sue provided a high-level overview of Open Enrollment and health plan options and benefits, including Espresa. Scott spoke about the redesigned HR website and leadership development, and Tammy discussed all things compensation.

The 340B Drug Pricing Program is a decades-old federal program designed to support safety-net providers like MaineHealth in stretching scarce resources and expanding access to care. But in recent years, the 340B landscape has shifted dramatically. From mounting legal challenges to restrictive contract pharmacy policies and changing manufacturer relationships, the program is under increasing pressure — with real consequences for health systems and the patients we serve. In this new Working Together episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins and Chief Pharmacy Officer Brian Marden unpack what’s happening in the 340B space nationally, how it’s affecting our organization locally, and what MaineHealth leaders are doing to respond — and advocate — for a sustainable path forward.

As patients increasingly seek high-quality care in lower-cost, more convenient settings, orthopedic ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) have emerged as a cornerstone of value-based care that is transforming how musculoskeletal care is delivered across the country.  In this new Working Together episode, COO Kelly Elkins explores the development of the MaineHealth Orthopedic Surgery Center and what it takes to design, launch and sustain a successful orthopedic ASC — from selecting the right location and partners, to ensuring clinical excellence, operational efficiency, and a great patient experience.  Joining Kelly in this conversation are Mike Bianchi, Vice President Emerging Business Lines and Oncology Service Line for MaineHealth and George Babikian, MD, Chief Orthopedic Service Line.

In this episode, infectious disease physician Dr. Christina Yen discusses the importance of antimicrobial stewardship where antibiotics are prescribed the most: the outpatient setting.  She shares insights on the current state of antibiotic resistance, discusses the current thinking on duration of antibiotic treatments and offers practical tips on managing infectious disease. Other topics include “watchful waiting,” rapid diagnostics, collaboration between primary care and specialists and new guidelines and technologies coming to stewardship in the near future.   Curbside Consult is the podcast that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app or on the MaineHealth Intranet page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn.   

For decades, community boards have been at the heart of MaineHealth, ensuring that local voices shaped the care delivered close to home. These boards have been instrumental in aligning MaineHealth’s mission with the unique needs of each community it serves.  But as healthcare grows more complex and MaineHealth continues to evolve, so too must its governance. That’s why MaineHealth is transitioning from individual community boards to a more integrated regional board structure. This change isn’t about losing local identity—it’s about strengthening the collective voice, streamlining decision-making, and ensuring that resources and strategies are aligned across regions. In this Working Together podcast, MaineHealth Coastal Region President Andy Patstone joins Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins to explore what this transition means for MaineHealth, its care team members, and most importantly, its patients and communities.

Andy’s Open Door went “On the Road” to MaineHealth Memorial Hospital in North Conway, NH, where CEO Andy Mueller was joined by Memorial Hospital President Tricia Costigan and Mountain Region Chief Medical Officer Matt Dunn. Their conversation touched on what makes Memorial so special: its deep roots in the community, its commitment to excellence and innovation, and the way its people step up for each other and for patients every day. Both Tricia and Matt shared their personal journeys that brought them to Memorial and their work to ensure patients receive outstanding care where and when they need it most. They also explored the unique aspects of serving in a rural community and discussed the ways Memorial is leveraging the resources and expertise of a system to expand access, strengthen coordination, and improve care delivery in meaningful ways.

Convenient, accessible, and increasingly sophisticated retail urgent care centers are bridging the gap between primary care and the emergency room—meeting patients where they are, both physically and in their expectations. But behind the convenience lies a complex and evolving story about care quality, cost, workforce, and integration with the broader healthcare system.  In this episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins discusses MaineHealth’s retail urgent care strategy with Mike Bianchi, Vice President Emerging Business Lines and Oncology Service Line and Alicia Faller, Medical Director Urgent Care. They explore what is driving its growth, how it will reshape the patient experience, and what role it will play in the future of value-based, consumer-centered care. Listeners will learn how the urgent care model connects to MaineHealth’s broader mission—improving access, experience, and continuity through Epic integration—and how this pilot could scale to additional communities across Maine and New Hampshire.

In the latest podcast episode from the MaineHealth ACO, Dr. Peter Amann shares the latest from obesity medicine, including the GLP-1 revolution, the importance of treating obesity as a chronic disease and the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions.  Curbside Consult is the podcast that brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app, or on the MaineHealth intranet home page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

The Brain Trust: Conversations in Neurosciences Service Line  In this Working Together episode, Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins takes you inside MaineHealth’s Neuroscience Service Line to highlight the work of its expert teams—neurologists, neurosurgeons, advanced practitioners, nurses and researchers—who are pushing boundaries in stroke care, epilepsy treatment, spine surgery, neuro-oncology, and more.  Joining Kelly are Shelly Davgun, VP Neuroscience Service Line for MaineHealth and Rob Ecker, MD Chief Neuroscience Service Line. We learn how the mission of MaineHealth’s Neuroscience Service Line aligns with the system’s broader goals, what distinguishes MaineHealth’s approach to neuroscience care from other systems, and more. This episode highlights how technology (AI, advanced imaging, robotics), telehealth, research collaborations, and new residency programs are improving diagnosis, treatment, and continuity of care, and outlines goals for growth including a dementia program, expanded epilepsy services, and system-wide stroke certification. Whether you’re a clinician, a healthcare leader, or a curious listener, learn how MaineHealth is integrating innovation, improving outcomes, and delivering compassionate, coordinated care across the communities we serve. 

MaineHealth CEO Andy Mueller introduced this episode of Andy's Open Door with a shout-out about the STAR (Stop, Think, Act, Review) tool and the creative ways care team members are sharing how they’re using STAR, inside and outside of work. Andy then welcomed Chief People Officer Scott Ballard for a conversation about the 2025 Care Team Experience Survey on Engagement and Safety Culture results, highlighting a record 78% participation and progress after switching to Press Ganey.

As hospitals across the country face growing workforce pressures and evolving patient expectations, virtual nursing has emerged as a powerful tool to improve clinical efficiency, enhance patient experience, and create a more sustainable model of care. In this new Working Together episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins explores the development and implementation of a virtual nursing strategy at MaineHealth—a bold step toward transforming how we support our patients and frontline care teams.  Joining Kelly are leaders who are helping bring this vision to life at MaineHealth — Sharon Baughman, Chief Nursing Officer at MaineHealth and Linda Mynahan-Greenstein, Director Nursing at Mid Coast Hospital. They share how the strategy was developed, the challenges and insights along the way, and the measurable impact it’s already having across the system.  They explore MaineHealth’s development and micro‑pilot of a virtual nursing strategy at Mid Coast Hospital in Brunswick, Maine, focusing on admission and discharge support for bedside nurses. They discuss implementation, early patient and nurse reactions, measurable goals, and plans to scale the model — emphasizing that virtual nursing augments care rather than replaces in‑person nurses.

This month, Mike and Heather sit down with thoracic surgeon and oncologist Dr. Gary Hochheiser to discuss lung cancer screening, early detection and the crucial role primary care can play in reducing lung cancer mortality.   Curbside Consult brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here or on your favorite podcast app, or on the MaineHealth intranet home page. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

As healthcare delivery continues to evolve, the importance of seamless transitions across the care continuum has never been more critical. From skilled nursing and home health to palliative care and rehabilitation, post-acute services play a vital role in improving outcomes, enhancing patient experience, and supporting hospital throughput.  In this episode, COO Kelly Elkins speaks with Patty Buiocchi, COO MaineHealth Post Acute Care, who is leading these efforts. They discuss how this supports our vision of working together so our communities are the healthiest in America, as well as the opportunities and challenges we face as we align care across settings.

In this episode of Andy's Open Door, Chief Government Affairs Officer Katie Fullam Harris joined Andy for a conversation about the essential work of MaineHealth’s Government Affairs team. Their discussion began with an overview of the federal reconciliation bill and how the Government Affairs team helps guide our organization through complex policy landscapes at the federal, state and local level through advocacy, education and collaboration. Katie shared how her team, in partnership with care team members, board members and other stakeholders, plays a critical role in advocating for and shaping legislation that affects MaineHealth and the people we serve. She also highlighted the expertise and dedication of her team, who handles a broad range of issues to support MaineHealth’s mission and vision. Together, Andy and Katie underscored the value of collaboration and using our collective voice to support patients, communities and the future of healthcare.

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, Episode 67 The Heart of Health In the latest episode of Working Together, Marco Diaz, MD, Chief Cardiovascular Service Line and Kathleen Gallen, VP Cardiovascular Service Line, join Kelly for a closer look at MaineHealth’s Cardiovascular Service Line—one of Northern New England’s most comprehensive, collaborative and patient-centered heart care programs. They explore how MaineHealth is advancing cardiovascular care through innovation, system-wide integration, and a commitment to delivering the right care in the right place at the right time. Whether you’re curious about how we coordinate care across the system or interested in the latest advancements in cardiovascular innovation, you’ll gain valuable insights from the conversation.

In this month’s Curbside Consult podcast from the MaineHealth ACO, neurologist Megan Selvitelli discusses newer migraine treatments that primary care providers can initiate themselves, CMS’s new GUIDE model for dementia care and a common condition that can lead to superfluous neurology referrals.  Curbside Consult brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult on your favorite podcast app, on the MaineHealth intranet home page or at the Curbside Consult website. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

Andy’s Open Door was “On the Road” today, traveling to MHMMC Biddeford, where CEO Andy Mueller was joined by Southern Region President Britt Crewse, MHMMC Biddeford/Sanford COO Kathryn Cope and MHMMC Portland COO Matt Wolden. Andy and the panel marked the one-year anniversary of license integration and discussed the many benefits it has delivered to the Southern Region and MaineHealth. They also reflected on other major milestones of the past year and highlighted advancements in quality, safety and clinical integration. Their conversation was also forward-thinking and delved into Master Facility Planning, the importance of improving access, and exciting prospects for clinical research and education.

Curbside Consult is a podcast produced by the MaineHealth ACO. In this month's episode, pediatric endocrinologist Mike Dedekian, MD discusses exciting hot-off-the-press innovations in type 1 diabetes treatment, including the use of monoclonal antibodies to delay onset. The conversation also covers the importance of recognizing symptoms of type 1 diabetes in children and the ongoing challenges of childhood obesity and hyperlipidemia.   Curbside Consult brings together specialists and primary care physicians to discuss clinical topics, referral management and coordination of care. Each month, family physician hosts Dr. Mike Clark and Dr. Heather Ward welcome a new specialist physician to share their unique insights.   Listen to Curbside Consult here on Podbean or on your favorite podcast app. To stay in touch with the show, follow the MaineHealth ACO on LinkedIn. 

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, Episode 66 Diagnostic Excellence with guest: Mark Parker Diagnostic accuracy is an important component of clinical excellence. Nonetheless, diagnostic errors continue to adversely affect patients worldwide. Despite their significance, these errors have not been as extensively studied as other patient safety issues such as medication errors, procedural complications, and hospital-acquired infections. Although diagnoses are made by clinicians, health system vulnerabilities frequently influence clinical reasoning and contribute to diagnostic errors. In this episode, Vice President of Quality and Safety Mark Parker and Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins discuss how MaineHealth is prioritizing diagnostic excellence as a key patient safety concern.

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, Episode 65 Guest: Erin Brown In the latest episode, Kelly explores how charitable giving fuels our health system —often bridging the gap between what is and what’s possible. From million-dollar donations that help build hospital towers to grassroots fundraising that funds life-saving equipment, these gifts are more than generous—they’re transformative. Joining Kelly in the conversation is Erin Brown, MaineHealth Chief Development Officer. They discuss how we are reshaping our approach to philanthropy within the system and the potential impact on healthcare delivery in our communities.

Welcome to the first episode of our Curbside Consult podcast, featuring MaineHealth pediatric gastroenterologist Anna Furr, DO! In this powerful conversation, Dr. Furr shares insights on improving access to pediatric specialty care and the urgent need for deeper collaboration between primary care providers and specialists. Listeners will hear strategies to streamline specialty access, including the use of e-consults, accessible referral guidelines, and innovative patient education efforts through social media. Dr. Furr stresses that by working together differently, primary and specialty care teams can help reduce family frustrations, strengthen referral confidence, and better serve their communities. Listen to how we can build a better, more connected future for pediatric care in Maine and New Hampshire. You can also listen on your favorite podcast app. Curbside Consult is hosted by practicing family physicians Mike Clark, MD, and Heather Ward, MD. Mike owns and operates his own practice, Lifespan Family Healthcare, in Newcastle, Maine and Heather is a physician leader in MaineHealth’s Coastal Region.

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, Episode 64 Reducing Care Variation with guest Gina Quinn Skillings, MD Reducing care variation is a strategic priority on MaineHealth’s five-year strategic plan and annual balanced scorecard. In the latest episode, MaineHealth Chief Operating Officer Kelly Elkins and Senior Director Clinical Integration Gina Quinn Skillings, MD, explore how differences in clinical practices across providers, hospitals and regions impact patient outcomes, costs and quality of care. They also discuss strategies for reducing unnecessary variation, improving standardization, and ultimately delivering better, more consistent care. From data-driven decision-making to frontline clinician engagement, you will hear how MaineHealth is advancing this important work.

Join us as we celebrate Care Team Appreciation Week with Andy Patstone, regional president from the coastal region, and Andy Mueller, MD, CEO of MaineHealth. From Andy M: It’s one of my favorite times of the year when we really get to turn the spotlight onto you – our incredible care team – and express our appreciation for the heroic work you do every day. I don’t use that word lightly; to me, it means bringing compassion and respect, excellence and integrity to our interactions with our patients, one another and community.  Heroic is thoughtfully listening and validating, focusing on the individual and their individual needs as they bring their whole selves to us seeking care and support. Heroic is leading with kindness and honesty and maintaining a steadfast commitment to safety with Positive Patient Identification (PPID), hand washing, utilizing our best practices and advocating in all components of care delivery. It is collaborating, taking responsibility and embracing change. Thank you for bringing your talents, expertise and dedication to our patients – and one another - each day as we continue working together so our communities are the healthiest in America.

Working Together with COO Kelly Elkins, Episode 63 A Conversation with CEO Andy Mueller, MD On April 9, Andy Mueller, MD marked his fourth anniversary as MaineHealth’s Chief Executive Officer. In this episode, Kelly sits down with Andy to discuss the current state of MaineHealth, the headwinds impacting health care, disruptors (both positive and negative), and how we are positioning ourselves to navigate turbulent waters and shape our sustainability for the future. Recorded on Wednesday, April 2, 2025