Innovative Digital Strategies Expand Access to Rural Care | Emily Shields | TEDxBradley University
What happens when compassion meets cutting-edge technology in the most remote corners of our country? Rural communities often face significant barriers to health care — distance, provider shortages and limited resources. OSF OnCall, the digital health entity within OSF HealthCare, is turning that challenge into an opportunity for innovation. Through a strategic blend of virtual visits, mobile units, remote monitoring and embedded care teams, OSF is reimagining how — and where — care is delivered. These solutions are improving health outcomes while advancing equity, economic stability and community resilience. Grounded in its Catholic Mission and guided by a deep sense of purpose, OSF OnCall delivers personalized, timely care to patients who need it most. In this talk, Emily Shields shares how scalable, human-centered strategies are creating lasting change — not just in health care, but in the lives of the people it serves. Emily Shields serves as Chief Strategy Officer for OSF HealthCare, responsible for leading the development, communication and execution of strategic initiatives that drive growth, innovation and long-term success for OSF. She plays a key role in advancing the OSF HealthCare brand and shaping growth strategies that support the system’s Mission and future Vision.
Shields has helped lead four hospital acquisitions, expanding the OSF HealthCare footprint to 17 hospitals. Shields spearheaded joint venture opportunities, including an inpatient behavioral health hospital and an ambulatory surgery center. She has built meaningful relationships with providers and health systems, and developed strategies to grow service lines and influence referral patterns. Additionally, she led an initiative that partnered with local and regional employers to create customized services that improve care quality, enhance the patient experience, and reduce costs. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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