Fincher Recognized For Visionary Leadership

Jodi Fincher, R.N., CEO of St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City, Mo., was recognized with the Missouri Hospital Association’s Visionary Leadership Award for her commitment to innovation in care for seniors. The award was presented on Thursday, Nov. 7, during MHA’s 97th Annual Convention & Trade Show at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Mo.

With 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 years old each day, the need for health services for seniors continues to grow. Realizing the needs within the community and the opportunity for the hospital, Fincher led the effort to establish the only geriatric-accredited emergency department in the Kansas City metro area. The medical center offers senior-focused inpatient, outpatient, emergency and behavioral health care.

“Jodi’s vision for better care for seniors exceeds the definition of a service line — it’s a whole hospital approach,” said Herb B. Kuhn, MHA President and CEO. “She anticipated the ‘silver tsunami,’ establishing a hospital with the structures and amenities suited to seniors in the Kansas City metro. Her vision is now informing the design of senior-friendly care.”

In addition to partnering with geriatric physicians to offer specialized care and patient management, the culture and design of the hospital relates to senior care. The hospital facilities are arranged to accommodate mobility issues, and patients’ sight and hearing are taken into consideration throughout the building and in clinical spaces.

Fincher’s vision for the hospital has drawn accolades and produced results. The hospital has been honored for quality and patient safety, while the Senior Care Services have been recognized locally for their impact on the community. Within the hospital system, other hospitals are learning from the service line and emulating the approach to senior care.

NOTE: A video tribute to Fincher is available online. Click the photo in this news release to access a print-ready photo.