By Nikki Ciecierski
Kathleen Rhine, President and CEO of Mount Nittany Health
Healthcare isn’t just a service, but a critical component of a thriving community. In Happy Valley, one provider has been in the game for over a century: Mount Nittany Health. With a history rooted in community care, Mount Nittany Health has become a local healthcare staple, delivering a wide breadth of services while embracing growth and innovation. Kathleen Rhine, President and CEO of Mount Nittany Health, shares her insights on what sets Mount Nittany Health apart and why it is essential to a successful business landscape in Happy Valley.
According to Rhine, Mount Nittany Health's strength is in its deep local roots. Since its establishment in 1902, the organization has been caring for the community. "Our roots are here, and so is our future," she said. Mount Nittany has 2,400 employees, and its mission is “healthier people, stronger community.”
It is key for us to align the organization's capabilities with the evolving needs of the community.
Mount Nittany Health has consistently fostered a personal connection with its patients. The professionalism, competence and dedication to quality and safety exhibited by our providers and staff drive our reputation as a healthcare organization,” Rhine continued, adding that a commitment to excellence has helped the organization to earn a coveted five-star hospital rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), recognition as one of the World’s Best Hospitals by Newsweek, among other honors.
Mount Nittany Health's vision for the future revolves around growth and responsiveness to community needs. “As the community has grown, so has the organization, steadily adding providers and services to meet the demands of the people we serve,” Rhine said. “It is key for us to align the organization's capabilities with the evolving needs of the community.”
By partnering with other healthcare organizations, payors and doctors, Mount Nittany Health ensures that collaboration is at the forefront when it benefits patients. “Our commitment to teamwork and collaboration has earned the appreciation and trust of the community,” she added.
With an increase in providers and services, Mount Nittany has been able to move forward with expansion projects for current facilities and building a new outpatient center in Toftrees, slated to be completed in 2024. “We have added over 60 providers. We are excited that the new outpatient center will accommodate this growth and help us continue to meet the needs of patients,” Rhine said, “Plus, the new ten-story tower at Mount Nittany Medical Center will be done in 2026, allowing us to modernize how we deliver care on campus.”
Like all healthcare organizations, Mount Nittany Health faces challenges. A primary concern is keeping up with the growing demand for services. “People are increasingly seeking care, putting pressure on the organization to be responsive and accessible,” Rhine said. “Attracting and retaining top talent is a priority to meet those demands. We have focused on competitive benefits and compensation packages to retain our status as an employer of choice and attract top talent.”
The rapid pace of technological advancements also demands that Mount Nittany Health continuously evaluate and adapt. “We embrace change and continuously explore ways to enhance our services and meet the community’s needs,” Rhine added.
In today's healthcare landscape, patients are more informed and engaged. “We recognize the shift in patient engagement and strive to create a patient-centered experience,” Rhine acknowledged. “Patients expect to be partners in their care, and the organization actively encourages this collaborative approach.”
People are increasingly seeking care, putting pressure on the organization to be responsive and accessible. Attracting and retaining top talent is a priority to meet those demands. We have focused on competitive benefits and compensation packages to retain our status as an employer of choice.
Rhine said that as the population ages, healthcare challenges increase, demanding a holistic approach to patient well-being and an open dialogue with patients. “We know that the members of this community want to receive their care here—in Happy Valley,” she said. “We listen to their feedback and then make strategic decisions to shift and change with the needs of our patients.”
According to Rhine, Mount Nittany Health's position as a local community healthcare organization, distinct from larger healthcare entities based outside of the region, is a vital asset to the Happy Valley community. “We are governed locally and driven by the community's needs,” she said. “The organization understands the importance of collaborations, partnerships and passion in fulfilling its mission of patient care.”
While other options have been considered, Rhine said, Mount Nittany Health remains committed to its true north—serving the community with unwavering dedication. “Every decision we make filters through our mission first,” she concluded. “Healthier people, stronger community.”
Comments
Powered by WP LinkPress