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.
Healthcare remains the state’s largest employer of direct, private-sector jobs. With this in mind, hospitals are finding innovative ways to give Michigan students the opportunity to gain real-world exposure to clinical and non-clinical healthcare roles. Some examples of these efforts are outlined below.
McKenzie Health System Hosts Healthcare Career Exploration Tours for Local Students
McKenzie Health System hosts an immersive hospital tour for local ninth and tenth grade students.
The eight-week program provides hands-on exploration of health and human service careers across the Thumb region. During their visit to McKenzie, students gained a behind-the-scenes look at how a rural hospital operates and the many career paths available within healthcare.
The tour itself involved rotating through several departments – pharmacy, dietary, nursing, diagnostic imaging, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation – and participating in interactive learning experiences designed to bring healthcare careers to life.
“These tours give students a meaningful look at the many career opportunities available in healthcare, right here in their own community,” said Nina Barnett, Public Relations. “We are proud to support the exploration of healthcare careers for local youth and to partner with the Thumb Community Health Partnership in building a strong future workforce.”
By partnering with the Thumb Community Health Partnership and local school districts, McKenzie continues to invest in programs that encourage students to explore rewarding careers in healthcare close to home.
Trinity Health Muskegon Hosts Schools for a “A Day in the Life of an Injured Student”
Educators and students from Muskegon High School and Spring Lake High School recently visited Trinity Health Muskegon to participate in an interactive activity titled, “A Day in the Life of an Injured Student,” where they followed the medical journey of a student athlete hurt during a football game.
From the initial scene with paramedics to the operating room alongside surgical technicians, students observed each step of care and were introduced to roughly 40 different medical and health-related professions along the way.
Trinity Health Muskegon colleagues shared more about their roles, required education, career pathways and practical advice. Representatives from healthcare colleges and Trinity Health Muskegon’s Talent Acquisition team were also present to serve as resources for the students.
“Many of these students have no idea how many career options exist within various healthcare settings,” said Jerry Evans, MD, emergency medicine provider, Lake Michigan Emergency Specialists and immediate past chief of staff, Trinity Health Muskegon. “Athletic trainers, paramedics, physicians, nurses, radiology and lab technicians, emergency department teams, operating room staff, computer support, dietary services, facilities personnel and so many others. Trinity Health Muskegon is devoted to strengthening our community and inspiring our youth to consider careers in healthcare.”
Covenant HealthCare Invites Recent Grads to Explore Hospital Careers
Covenant HealthCare created “Discover Covenant” in 2024 to expand knowledge of hospital jobs, grow local talent and help future generations make informed career decisions.
The summer program is a paid opportunity designed for recent high school graduates interested in healthcare. It runs from early June to late August, giving participants the opportunity to explore areas of interest along with those they’re unfamiliar with. Exploration periods are done in three-week rotations from 8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday.
“As I worked through Discover Covenant, my love of helping people and feeling a sense of accomplishment was ignited during the nursing rotation,” said one participant. “I have now willingly changed my college major to nursing, and I am grateful for the time and money saved due to my experience with Discover Covenant.”
Since 2024, hospital employees and volunteers have hosted approximately 30 students – a handful of which have since sought employment or additional learning at Covenant. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the Covenant team.
“This program has given young adults from our community the opportunity to learn more about healthcare careers and engage with our organization,” said Jill Jarvis, BSN, RN, manager, clinical development & education, Covenant HealthCare. “It has been a win-win for both participants seeking knowledge and guidance about their futures and for our organization, which is working to build pipelines for future employees.”
Hillsdale Hospital Awards Up to $50,000 in Educational Support to High School Seniors Pursuing Nursing Careers
Hillsdale Hospital’sDoris Whorley Nursing Scholarship allows eligible high school seniors to apply for tuition assistance of up to $10,000 per year for up to five years for an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
“Our hospital depends on nurses across every point of care and our mission with this scholarship program is to support their education, on-the-job training and long-term career development,” said Randy Holland, chief nursing and infection control officer.
The scholarship was named after Doris Whorley, Hillsdale’s longest working nurse who has been in the profession for nearly 58 years.
“Doris Whorley has made such an incredible and enduring impact on our hospital’s staff and patients,” added Holland. “On behalf of Hillsdale Hospital’s nursing staff, we are honored to carry her legacy forward as we train and guide future nurses.”
Program application announcements can be found on Hillsdale Hospital’s website.
Eaton Rapids Medical Center Hosts Themed Hospital Tour
The team at Eaton Rapids Medical Center recently hosted a two-day hospital tour for local second graders. To keep things engaging, the event was pirate-themed and included exploring the “Emergency Deck,” emergency department, a visit to ”Clean Hands Island” to learn more about the importance of handwashing and a trip to “X-Ray Bay” to see the hospital’s radiology equipment.
The tours are designed not only to ease fears associated with medical care, but also educate students on healthy habits and see members of the hospital team in action.
“We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with our local schools to bring this experience to our second graders every year,” said Eleni Danford, MSN, RN, clinical education, Eaton Rapids Medical Center. “By opening our doors and giving students the chance to explore our departments, meet our care team and have a genuinely fun and memorable experience, we hope to build a sense of familiarity and trust between our hospital and the community we serve.”
Pine Rest Charts Careers in Mental Health
Through personal narratives, reenactments and hands-on activities, more than 200 Kent County students explored career opportunities in the mental health field at an event recently hosted by Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services.
“Pine Rest Beyond the Books — The High School Edition,” was an immersive program designed to introduce teens to behavioral health careers. Students from Kent Career Tech Center and several local high schools, including Byron Center, Kenowa Hills, Kelloggsville, Kentwood, Lowell and Northview, attended the event.
Amy Pierce-Danders, Pine Rest workforce development manager, said many students entering the medical field focus on traditional roles, such as nurse or doctor, without realizing the breadth of opportunities available. Other behavioral health job options include counselor, social worker, psychiatric technician, behavioral analyst and recreational therapist, she said.
“The goal is to get the students on campus where they can learn about behavioral health issues and discover these healthcare pathways,” Pierce-Danders said.
MI Hospital Careers Campaign
As a complement to the local efforts of Michigan hospitals, the MHA’s MI Hospital Careers campaign launched in June 2023 to expand interest in Michigan health careers. The campaign targets high school and college students, as well as working professionals looking for a rewarding career. To learn more, contact Katelin Wiersma at the MHA.
The House and Senate Appropriations committees held a joint hearing for Gov. Whitmer’s executive budget recommendation for fiscal year 2027, and the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee heard testimony on nurse mandatory overtime legislation during the …
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 program. The board also welcomed incoming board member
In response to the opioid epidemic, four Trinity Health hospitals — Livonia, Oakland, Livingston and Ann Arbor — launched a regional initiative to expand access to Narcan (naloxone), a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. …
Having knowledgeable and well-skilled teams is vital to deliver exceptional care and the MHA offers a robust lineup of meetings, webinars and collaborative opportunities to support hospital leaders and clinicians throughout the year. From major …
“2026 will be a transition year for the U.S. economy: the impact of the Fed’s monetary policies and Trump tariffs will be widely debated as state and Congressional primary campaigns begin next month. If affordability is the top concern to voters as pollsters predict, every candidate will be forced to express their views on solutions. While political rhetoric lends to opaque solutions and evasive answers to direct questions, voters are tired of BS. They associate it with both major parties and their luminary incumbents, and want straight talk. 2026 will be a transition year for the economy because voters will be paying closer attention to the economy and the prices they pay for essentials including healthcare.
And 2026 is a transition year for the healthcare economy: Major changes in regulatory policies impacting healthcare will originate in states either in response to federal directives or fiscal pressures. Federal policies will be directional but state responses and implementation will be more important. …
Voters think the health system is wasteful and self-serving. A Bipartisan majority in Congress share the view. The majority of voters believe it is more closely associated with Big Business than Community Health and Wellbeing. Distinctions between Big Not for Profits and Investor Ownership are blurry and industry opposition to price transparency, site neutral payments and cost-controls are seen as evidence of self-protection. So, if positioned appropriately, greater systemic reform of the health system would be welcomed. Leadership by states is, after all, a core tenet of federalism.”
The deadline to submit a request for proposals to the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity Workforce Development for the State Apprenticeship Expansion 2026 Grant Program is Feb. 18.
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 11 a.m. – noon ET on March 4.
MHA offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 16 in observance of Presidents’ Day.
The teams at Trinity Health Michigan lead training sessions for staff and residents to increase awareness, reduce stigma and build confidence in overdose response.
In response to the opioid epidemic, four Trinity Health hospitals — Livonia, Oakland, Livingston and Ann Arbor — launched a regional initiative to expand access to Narcan (naloxone), a lifesaving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. Through the installation of free Narcan vending machines, these hospitals are providing 24/7 access to a critical resource that can restore breathing and prevent fatal outcomes during overdose emergencies.
At Trinity Health Oakland, community health workers play a pivotal role in the success of this initiative. Their deep connections within the community enabled strategic placement of the vending machine in a high-need area and guidance on outreach and education efforts. They also lead training sessions for staff and residents to increase awareness, reduce stigma and build confidence in overdose response.
Since its installation in March 2025, the unit has played a critical role in potentially saving 76 lives — a powerful testament to the importance of accessible intervention tools and community engagement. At the other Trinity Health Southeast Michigan hospitals — Livonia, Livingston and Ann Arbor — the Narcan vending machines were deployed through the efforts of community health and well-being directors, who identified key locations and coordinated implementation to ensure broad access across the region. By removing barriers to access and empowering individuals with the tools and knowledge to respond to opioid overdoses, the program is saving lives and improving well-being across Southeast Michigan.
“This work is deeply personal,” said Chiquita Berg, MD, MBA, FACOG, vice president of community, health and well-being, Trinity Health Michigan. “I’ve seen the heartbreak that substance use disorder brings and I’ve also seen the strength it takes to recover. At Trinity Health Michigan, we’re committed to meeting people with compassion, not judgment. Through bold leadership and trusted partnerships, we’re creating pathways to healing and sending a clear message: every life is worth saving, and every person deserves a future filled with hope.”
MHA Endorsed Business Partner (EBP) CyberForce|Q is hosting the webinar Proactive Cyber Risk Measures from 11 a.m. to noon ET on Jan. 29. The session will feature speakers from Trinity Health, the Michigan State Cyber Command Center and other organizations.
Presenters Adrienne Chase and Sam Khan will walk attendees through a real-world incident, discuss key lessons learned, practical takeaways and the strategies that made the biggest difference when every minute mattered. Michigan State Cyber Command Center leader Tarek Sasy will also provide insights into statewide response efforts and best practices.
Members are encouraged to register for a first-hand look at what happens when a real cyber incident occurs, including proactive steps organizations can take to accelerate recovery and reduce impact. The session is designed for leaders seeking a realistic understanding of incident response, preparation and how proactive defense shapes outcomes when facing real-world attacks.
To learn more about CyberForce|Q, contact Midwest regional sales director, John Kelley. Members interested in solutions offered through the MHA EBP program may contact Rob Wood at the MHA.
“It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live.” ― Dalai Lama
I recently had the privilege of joining leaders from across the state to discuss the most pressing issues for Michiganders at the annual Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference. Because our member hospitals and health systems are not only critical providers of care, but also major economic drivers, the MHA once again served as an event sponsor and had a major presence with elected officials, business leaders and the media throughout the week. As you would imagine, we focused our attention on the current Congressional debate over the future of Medicaid and advocated for our 340B legislation and other priorities.
But I was also struck by the airtime given at the conference to the ongoing housing crisis in Michigan, a critical component of health that requires collective action across sectors to address. Over the past year, this has been an issue that our hospital leaders almost always lift up during our site visits, whether in rural or urban settings. The housing issue affects not only patients but hospital employees as well. Housing, along with food insecurity and transportation challenges, make up the core “social drivers of health” that represent one of the most vexing challenges that we confront as leaders.
More than 40% of households in Michigan struggle to cover basic needs like food, healthcare and housing. We also know there is an inextricable link between food and housing insecurity and health. Research has shown that only 20% of health can be attributed to medical care, while socioeconomic factors account for 40%. Individuals with limited access to adequate food are at increased risk for chronic diseases, behavioral health issues and healthcare underuse – which can lead to higher acute care utilization long-term.
Hospital staff are not immune to these challenges. The rising cost of housing often impacts entry-level and non-clinical personnel, including environmental service workers. We need more accessible options, especially in our state’s rural counties, in order to help hospitals recruit and retain staff to care for our communities.
With all this in mind, the MHA is proud to support U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens’ (D-Birmingham) Healthy Affordable Housing Act, which seeks to create affordable housing in locations with easy access to needed services like public transportation, grocery stores and childcare.
Additionally, we’re proud of the innovative efforts underway across our member hospitals to enhance housing security for residents and staff. For example, we have members vetting opportunities to purchase housing near their facilities to provide employees with affordable rent in an accessible location.
Our members are also engaging in collaborative efforts to meet residents where they are. Here are just a few examples:
Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital delivers free medical care to individuals experiencing homelessness in Oakland County through their Street Medicine Oakland.
ProMedica is prioritizing public health efforts, investing in ProMedica Farms and their Veggie Mobile to improve access to fresh, affordable produce and nutrition education for the communities it serves.
Trinity Health’s Food is Medicine program also improves nutrition security by distributing locally grown produce directly to patients at medical appointments and to the community via its farm share, farm stand and food pantry.
Henry Ford Health is investing in Detroit’s New Center neighborhood through its campus expansion project, which is a cornerstone of a community-driven plan that will also include a state-of-the-art medical research center alongside mixed-use residential developments offering market-rate and affordable housing, retail spaces, green areas and recreational facilities.
As anchor institutions in their communities, Michigan hospitals will continue prioritizing public health and community benefit efforts. However, we must recognize this is a systemic issue that requires change and investment across industries. The MHA and our members recognize it is our shared responsibility to work alongside partners in the public and private sector to improve the socioeconomic standing of our communities. We look forward to the continued collaboration following the robust conversations on the island.
The MHA released a new episode of the MiCare Champion Cast exploring the role artificial intelligence (AI) plays in healthcare today and what it will look like in the future. The episode features Bruce Brandes, president of Care.ai and Monica Holmes, a PhD candidate in bioinformatics at the University of Michigan and current member of the MHA AI Task Force.
Early in the discussion, Brandes and Holmes highlighted the ways smart technologies have been used for years when it comes to data analysis, disease diagnosis, radiology, clinical documentation, language processing and more.
“For the first time – maybe in my career in healthcare – it’s obvious that the status quo is no longer an acceptable option,” said Brandes, who has over 30 years of experience in executive management and entrepreneurial thought leadership. “This is real – you need to understand it, you need to be intentional and deliberate and have a strategic plan.”
Both Brandes and Holmes emphasized throughout the episode that AI cannot replace the essential role humans play in healthcare. The goal, in most cases, is to optimize a more efficient workflow, improve healthcare quality, advance diagnostics and enhance medical research.
“On the academic side, it’s improving our ability to do better research, which leads to better insights and ultimately better health outcomes for patients when it’s translated over to the bedside,” said Holmes, who also serves on the board of Trinity Health’s Chelsea Hospital as chair of patient quality and safety.
Listeners can expect to learn more about how patients and providers are responding to AI tools (including virtual nursing) and get answers to commonly asked questions related to transparency, health equity, regulation and cybersecurity.
Care.ai, an MHA endorsed business partner, powers more human care through the first and only AI-enabled Smart Care Facility Operating Platform, which deploys smart sensors throughout care facilities. These sensors continuously and ambiently monitor clinical and operational workflows, learning from them to predict, prevent and protect; alerting and engaging care teams in real-time and improving common challenges such as fall prevention, pressure injury prevention, hand hygiene compliance, rounding adherence, automated documentation, virtual rounding, virtual sitting and more.
Henry Ford Health physician residents pictured with Representative Kimberly Edwards (D-Eastpointe).
The MHA Graduate Medical Education (GME) Capitol Day welcomed more than 40 physician residents from a dozen member hospitals to the MHA Capitol Advocacy Center offices May 1 for a day of meetings with members of the Michigan Legislature and their staffs. Each group of residents met with a combination of lawmakers and legislative staff throughout the day, with conversations focusing on the importance of graduate medical education, physician residents in the healthcare continuum and Michigan’s future physician healthcare workforce talent pipeline.
Meetings were held in the Michigan Capitol, the Anderson House Office Building and the Senate Binsfeld Office Building.
Participating lawmaker offices included:
House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit)
House Minority Leader Matt Hall (R-Richland Township)
