Tag: MHA Keystone Center

MHA Keystone Center Pilot Reduces Caregiver Strain

Member News, Patient Safety and Quality

The MHA Keystone Center, in partnership with the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, released findings from a two-year pilot since implementing the Michigan Caregiver Navigation Toolkit in acute care settings. Results show reductions in caregiver strain and stronger caregiver support infrastructure across two Michigan health systems. Both organizations implemented the toolkit and conducted annual gap analyses to identify workflow gaps, set priorities and integrate caregiver support practices.

The MHA Keystone Center released two KeyLearnings modules to support implementation of the toolkit. The Michigan Caregiver Navigation Toolkit Module guides hospital teams through each section of the toolkit, while the Identifying, Understanding and Communicating the Role of Caregivers Module highlights the physical and emotional impact of caregiving and the importance of timely education, communication and resource support.

Caregiver Burnout as a Quality, Safety Concern

The pilot focused on reducing physical and emotional challenges for individuals caring for friends, neighbors or family members with complex health needs. Lower caregiver strain can lead to more timely support, fewer complications and reduced reliance on high-acuity services. Strengthening caregiver resilience supports improved patient outcomes and safety.

Pilot Sites Demonstrate Improvements

One pilot site reassessed 113 unpaid caregivers two months after initial evaluation and reported improvements across indicators. This includes:

  • Caregiver Intensity Index decreased by 54%
  • Mental health impact decreased by 46%
  • Stress-related drivers decreased by 70%
  • Stress-buffering supports increased by 19%

Caregiver intensity levels also shifted:

  • High-intensity cases decreased from 21 to 1
  • Moderate-intensity cases decreased from 84 to 10
  • Low-intensity cases increased from 8 to 50

These results indicate fewer caregivers remained in high-risk categories after receiving structured support from admission through two months post-discharge.

Guided by the MHA Keystone Center, both health systems implemented core toolkit components, including staff engagement, standardized assessments, community partnerships, communication strategies and sustainability planning. Staffing offsets supported participation in assessments and improvement activities. An online learning module was developed to expand statewide access and is available to members at no cost, along with the toolkit.

Key Takeaways for Quality and Safety Leaders

The pilot offers insights for leaders focused on reducing harm and improving system reliability, including:

  • Reducing caregiver strain supports patient safety by decreasing delays, complications and avoidable utilization
  • Annual gap analyses help identify deficiencies and guide targeted improvements
  • Standardized workflows, education tools and assessments support consistent caregiver practices
  • The model provides a practical path to reduce caregiver-related safety risks and improve outcomes

Members with questions may contact Joshua Suire at the MHA Keystone Center.

Trinity Health Michigan Team Members Recognized with MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award

Member News, Patient Safety and Quality

The Michigan Health & Hospital Association (MHA) Keystone Center recognized Camryn Smith and Alicia Evans, medical assistants at Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, as its quarterly MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award recipients.

Camryn Smith and Alicia Evans, medical assistants at Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, at the MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award presentation.

The Speak-up! Award honors individuals or teams in Michigan hospitals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to preventing harm to patients or staff. Smith and Evans were recognized for speaking up – and jumping into action – after Smith detected an abnormal blood pressure reading while performing a stitch removal.

“Some of the most powerful acts of courage and leadership come from those early in their career,” said MHA CEO Brian Peters. “The work of the Trinity Health IHA Medical Group team is a strong reminder that every voice matters when it comes to enhancing patient safety. It also underlines the importance of establishing a culture where speaking up is encouraged and supported.”

Upon realizing the patient’s blood pressure results seemed inconsistent using automated equipment, Evans, a medical assistant intern at the time, asked Smith for assistance with a manual pulse check. The two soon learned that the patient’s heart rate was dangerously low and promptly notified an attending provider to further assess the situation.

It was discovered through an electrocardiogram (EKG) that the patient was experiencing an episode of atrial fibrillation (AFib). As a result of Smith and Evans’ prompt attention to detail, the individual was safely transferred to the emergency department for further treatment.

“Camryn and Alicia listened to their instincts and worked together to ensure timely, lifesaving intervention,” said Cindy Elliott, president of Trinity Health Michigan Medical Groups. “Stories like this reinforce our mission and commitment to delivering safe, exceptional care.”

More information about the MHA Keystone Center Speak-up! Award, including criteria and a nomination form, is available online.

Upcoming Opportunities to Prioritize Workplace Safety

Member News

As MHA CEO Brian Peters stated in his April CEO Report, it’s critical – especially during Workplace Violence Prevention Month – to prioritize the safety and well-being of healthcare workers. The MHA Keystone Center and MHA Service Corporation are committed to partnering with experts across the healthcare industry and beyond to support workplace safety initiatives.

Below are upcoming events and learning opportunities tied to this work:

  • Join i2G Systems April 22 for an informative webinar on the Pathway to Prevention, which will review how security technology recently prevented an active violence incident in the healthcare setting.
  • Explore new trauma-informed eLearning opportunities, including de-escalation trainings available by contacting Tarian as well as the Four Myths of Workplace Violence webinar recording.
  • Save the date for the 2026 MHA Keystone Center Safety & Quality Symposium coming up Oct. 14. The event will feature national speakers including Stephen Weiler, manager of resiliency services at Tarian, who has personally provided active shooter training and more at several MHA-member hospitals.

Contact Rob Wood or the MHA Keystone Center team to learn more.

Keystone Quality and Safety Dashboard Provides At-a-Glance Insights

Member News, Patient Safety and Quality

The MHA Keystone Center recently rolled out its Quality and Safety Dashboard, a resource that helps Michigan hospitals monitor performance, identify improvement opportunities and reduce patient harm. The dashboard provides an at-a-glance view of performance across key patient safety and quality metrics, supporting data-driven decision-making at both the hospital and health system levels.

The dashboard brings together multiple trusted data sources, including hospital administrative claims, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Healthcare Safety Network infection data, maternal health indicators related to severe maternal morbidity, and select Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Patient Safety Patient Safety Indicators focused on potentially preventable in‑hospital complications.

Clinicians can use the dashboard to understand variation in outcomes, support quality improvement initiatives and inform care team discussions. Healthcare leaders can use the tool to monitor performance trends, identify organizational risk and align systemwide quality priorities.

To learn more about how to use this resource, members are encouraged to attend one of the following Keystone Quality and Safety introduction sessions:

Access to the dashboard is available through a KeyMetrics account. Members can receive assistance with account setup or dashboard navigation by contacting the MHA Keystone Center.

 

MHA CEO Report — Violence Is Not Part of the Job

Member News, MHA Rounds
MHA Rounds graphic of Brian Peters

“Fear is not a good motivator.” — Edgar Schein

MHA Rounds graphic of Brian PetersHealthcare workers accept extraordinary responsibility in their role as caregivers for their community, but fearing for their own safety is never something they should have to accept as part of the job.

During Workplace Violence Prevention Month, we must be clear in our conviction that ensuring the safety of healthcare workers is not optional.

Violence against healthcare workers is rising at a concerning rate. According to a 2025 American Hospital Association report, up to 76% of healthcare workers have reported experiencing violence. Hospitals refuse to accept this as the status quo. Across the state, our members are investing in security enhancements, strengthening de‑escalation training and reinforcing the message that hospitals are places of healing.

But hospitals cannot solve this growing crisis on our own.

Without intentional policy solutions, efforts to reduce violence against healthcare workers will not meet the scope and severity of the problem. Healthcare workers deserve the same legal and workplace safeguards afforded to others who serve the public, like flight attendants and first responders. The MHA continues to advocate for legislation that will cement the expectation that assaulting healthcare workers will not be tolerated into law.

A fragmented approach to addressing workplace violence isn’t sustainable, which is why our members remain actively engaged in coordinated statewide mitigation efforts. Just last month, hospital HR leaders gathered at our annual HR conference and participated in a workplace violence reduction panel discussion. This October, our Safety & Quality Symposium will continue that focus with programming centered on worker safety. The MHA Keystone Center, a certified patient safety organization, supports this work year‑round by facilitating a member‑led workplace safety collaborative and offering educational opportunities, security risk assessments and trainings in partnership with MHA‑endorsed business partner Tarian.

Healthcare workers are there for us during our most vulnerable moments. It is our responsibility to be there for them as well by building cultures of safety that extend not only to patients, but to those supporting and providing care.

During Workplace Violence Prevention Month, and every month thereafter, we must reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing safety and advancing comprehensive solutions that support staff well-being. Protecting healthcare workers is not only fundamental to our values, but also to our ability to deliver the care our communities deserve.

As always, I welcome your thoughts.

Member Resource Available – Workplace Safety Posters

The MHA developed workplace safety posters for members to display throughout their facilities communicating the consequences of committing physical harm toward healthcare workers or hospital property. The informational posters are geared toward patients, families and visitors, with a couple of creative options available in two sizes. With the help of MHA Endorsed Business Partner AMN Healthcare Language Services, Spanish and Arabic versions are also available. Complimentary copies of the materials are available to MHA members by request through an online order form. Non-members may purchase materials at cost. Questions about materials may be directed to the MHA.

MHA Monday Report March 2, 2026

Monday Report, Member News

Governor Whitmer Delivers Final State of the State Address

Gov. Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address Feb. 25 before a joint session of the Michigan House of Representatives and Senate, outlining priorities for the remainder of her term, including healthcare affordability. …

MHA EventsUpcoming Events Focus on Workplace Violence

The MHA is hosting two upcoming events that provide resources and insights on workplace violence in healthcare. The MHA Keystone Center and MHA Endorsed Business Partner Tarian will host the webinar, The Four Myths of Workplace Violence …

Hospitals Help: Grant Drives Maternal Safety Innovation at MyMichigan Health

Simulation training helps care teams prepare for rare, high-risk events by allowing them to practice clinical decision-making and collaboration in a safe environment. Through an equipment grant distributed by the MHA Keystone Center with funding …

The MHA February Recap 

MHA Chief Medical Officer Expresses Support for AAP Immunization Schedule

The following statement can be attributed to Gary Roth, DO, MBA, FACOS, FCCM, FACS, chief medical officer of the MHA.  The MHA supports the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) evidence-based 2026 immunization schedule and the …

Former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow Addresses MHA Board

The MHA Board of Trustees’ Feb. 4 meeting featured a discussion with former U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, who is now a senior policy advisor with DC-based Liberty Partners Group, a bipartisan strategic consulting firm. Stabenow …

MHA Service Corporation Welcomes New Board Member and Explores Innovations

The MHA Service Corporation (MHASC) board met Feb. 4 to advance and promote current and future business services of the MHASC and its Endorsed Business Partner (EBP) Program. The board also welcomed incoming board member …

MHA Keystone Board Reviews Strategic Priorities

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met Feb. 4 to review strategic priorities and key initiatives aligned with the 2025-26 MHA Strategic Action Plan. The meeting opened with a discussion focused on workplace violence …

Building Excellence Without Barriers

Every February, Black History Month invites us to pause and reflect on the pioneers who have redefined what’s possible for communities across the country — often in systems that were not designed with them in mind. …

Keckley Report

Mission Health, Asheville: Up Close and Personal

“On December 10, I had quadruple bypass surgery at Mission Hospital (MH), the HCA Healthcare facility in Asheville NC. It was necessary due to significant blockage (95%) and counsel from my long-time primary care physician at Vanderbilt, Ben Womack. …

This experience has been enlightening. I kept copious notes and continue to add to that file. My journey spans 3 months, 2 ED visits, a 5-day inpatient stay, an outpatient post-op procedure to clear fluid build-up in my lungs, a follow-up visit with Dr. Russell and the first two weeks of the rehab regimen. Observations to date: …”

Paul Keckley, Feb. 22, 2026

MHA in the News

MHA Executive Vice President Laura Appel joined WJR’s Ryan Ermanni live broadcast Feb. 25 for the station’s annual coverage of the state’s legislative and policy priorities in alignment with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the …

Upcoming Events Focus on Workplace Violence

Member News

The MHA will host two events that provide resources and insights on workplace violence in healthcare.

The MHA Keystone Center and MHA Endorsed Business Partner Tarian will host the webinar, The Four Myths of Workplace Violence and the Aggression Cycle You Can’t Afford to Ignore, March 4 from 11 a.m. – noon ET. Attendees are encouraged to register for the free webinar to gain valuable insights during the interactive discussion. The webinar is open to MHA members and non-members, healthcare professionals and leaders, security personnel and others responsible for creating a safe, empathetic and resilient workplace culture. Members with questions may contact Rob Wood at the MHA or Adam Novak at the MHA Keystone Center.

MHA EventsThe 2026 MHA HR Conference, scheduled March 24 at the Crowne Plaza Lansing, will include a panel discussion on workplace violence as a continuing challenge across healthcare settings that impacts employee safety, well-being and retention. The panel will highlight real-world strategies for preventing, responding to and recovering from incidents of workplace violence. Panelists will highlight successful initiatives, including policy development, staff training, reporting and response protocols, and collaboration between security and clinical teams.

Registration for the HR Conference is $259 and members can register online by March 11. Questions about registration should be directed to Ellie Droste at the MHA. Members with questions about the conference may contact Erica Leyko at the MHA.

Hospitals Help: Grant Drives Maternal Safety Innovation at MyMichigan Health

Hospitals Help, Member News

Simulation training helps care teams prepare for rare, high-risk events by allowing them to practice clinical decision-making and collaboration in a safe environment. Through an equipment grant distributed by the MHA Keystone Center with funding support from UnitedHealthcare, MyMichigan Health is strengthening hands-on learning to improve readiness for rare but life-threatening maternal emergencies.

Using MamaBirthie simulators provided through the grant, MyMichigan Health recently partnered with Maternal 911 to host a training focused on responding to Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE). The session brought together nurses, midwives and physicians from its Midland and Alma birthing units to practice rapid, coordinated response strategies, including an OB zone approach that clarifies team roles to ensure critical steps are not missed during high-risk events.

“These simulations give us the chance to practice responding to uncommon complications we hope never happen, but need to be prepared for,” said Tonia Vanwieren B.S.N., R.N., system nursing director of maternal child and women’s health, MyMichigan Health. “Having the equipment and time to train together builds confidence and helps us respond quicker when every second matters when an emergency arises.”

The MHA Keystone Center works alongside the Michigan Alliance for Innovation (MI AIM) on Maternal Health to equip Michigan birthing hospitals with practical tools that strengthen clinical readiness, build confident care teams and improve outcomes for mothers and babies across Michigan.

Members with questions about MI AIM or other maternal health quality improvement offerings should reach out to Naomi Rosner at the MHA Keystone Center. For more information and hospital stories, check out the 2025 Community Impact Report. Members with questions may contact Lucy Ciaramitaro at the MHA.

MHA Monday Report Feb. 23, 2026

Member News, Monday Report

Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Awaits Further Consideration, Important Healthcare Bills Advance

The House and Senate advanced key healthcare bills through the committee process during the week of Feb. 16 and legislation to restore Michigan to the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact awaits further consideration by the Michigan Legislature. Senate Bill …

MHA Keystone Board Reviews Strategic Priorities

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met Feb. 4 to review strategic priorities and key initiatives aligned with the 2025-26 MHA Strategic Action Plan. The meeting opened with a discussion focused on workplace violence …

MHA Shares Talking Points on Mental Health Framework

The MHA recently finalized talking points on Michigan’s Mental Health Framework to support hospital engagement with policymakers and legislators. The release follows the association’s formal comment letter outlining hospital concerns with the proposed framework, particularly …

MHA Events2026 MHA HR Conference to Feature Reputation Management Session

Human resources (HR) leaders do more than oversee policies. They guide pivotal moments — difficult conversations, high-pressure decisions and daily interactions that shape trust, culture and credibility across an organization. At the 2026 MHA HR Conference …

MDHHS Shares 2026 MICH Requirements Updates

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently released updated information for calendar year 2026 regarding coverage regions and participating plans for Mi Coordinated Health (MICH). MICH is the state’s Highly Integrated Dual …

Registration Open for MDHHS Laboratory Leadership Summit

Registration is open for the Laboratory Leadership Summit, hosted March 26 in Lansing by the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories. MHA members are encouraged to register and attend …

Hospitals Help: Lake Huron Medical Center Clinic Provides Free, Lifesaving Care

Lake Huron Medical Center, Port Huron, partners with the People’s Clinic for Better Health, which has been providing life-saving healthcare at no cost to the uninsured and underinsured in St. Clair County for more than …

From the MHA Board Chair

Building Excellence Without Barriers

Every February, Black History Month invites us to pause and reflect on the pioneers who have redefined what’s possible for communities across the country — often in systems that were not designed with them in mind. …

The Keckley Report

Government Reports on Healthcare require a Closer Look

“Last week, the Federal Government released agency reports that paint a perplexing picture for the health industry entering 2026:

Tuesday, The Bureau of Labor Statistics released the EMPLOYMENT COST INDEX SUMMARY noting “Compensation costs for civilian workers increased 0.7%, seasonally adjusted, for the 3-month period ending in December 2025 and 3.4% for the 12-month period ending December, 2025.” Closer look: it was +3.6% for hospitals and +3.2% for nursing homes. …

In every hospital, medical group nursing home and home care organization, pressure to attract and keep a viable workforce is mission critical. In some, the Human Resource function is effectively aligned with regulatory, clinical and technology changes, in some, compensation plans from executive to support are strategically designed to optimize short and long-term performance and ROI. In some, the Board Compensation committee is well-prepared to adjust policies as talent requirements change. In some, leaders and frontline teams show mutual respect and sincere appreciation. But many fall short.

These reports are public record. But their headline stats don’t tell a complete story. Every healthcare organization is obligated to do the rest.”

Paul Keckley, Feb. 15, 2025

New to KnowNews to Know

Join MHA Endorsed Business Partner SmarterDx for the webinar From Policy to Your Playbook: Turning Rural Health Transformation Programs into Actionable Steps, Feb. 26 from 1 – 2 p.m. ET.

MHA in the News

MHA CEO Brian Peters bylined an op-ed Feb. 16 in The Detroit News, highlighting Michigan hospitals’ understanding of the financial strain that rising healthcare costs are creating and reinforcing their commitment to being part of …

MHA Keystone Board Reviews Strategic Priorities

Member News

The MHA Keystone Center Board of Directors met Feb. 4 to review strategic priorities and key initiatives aligned with the 2025-26 MHA Strategic Action Plan.

The meeting opened with a discussion focused on workplace violence and its impact on hospital staff. Board members reflected on the organization’s work and the ongoing efforts to support hospitals in addressing violence in healthcare settings.

During the strategic conversation, the board provided input to help guide priorities under the Strategic Action Plan. The discussion included an overview of the MHA Keystone Patient Safety Organization presented by Adam Novak, director, safety initiatives, followed by a maternal health update from Josh Suire, director, safety & quality, highlighting current initiatives and areas for continued focus.

Members with questions may contact Amy Brown at the MHA.