WakeMed offers lessons learned during COVID-19 pandemic

Preparing to respond to a second wave of COVID-19 cases has yielded eight lessons at WakeMed Health & Hospitals in Raleigh, N.C. As WakeMed made functions operational in response to a possible surge, the organization discovered the depth of its capabilities. It also learned the importance of flexibility, speed, regional cooperation and community support. WakeMed changed its payment system for physicians, who were receiving productivity-based compensation. A senior nurse led the team that developed a plan for expanding the hospital’s capacity by 50% when the next surge occurs. (HealthLeaders Media story, 6/17/20)