Happy New Year! I wanted to share some positive news with you regarding our system.  Two separate bond rating agencies have improved our standing and returned UMass Memorial Health Care to investment grade status after two-years in a lower rated category. The news this week from Moody’s Investor Services and Fitch Ratings clearly demonstrates our turnaround as an organization. These higher ratings, among other things, give us the flexibility to make improvements to our facilities, technology and services allowing us to deliver more patient-centered care.

None of this would be possible without your help and support. The 20,000 ideas you have implemented the past two years has been the foundation of our recovery.  By embracing our idea system and fostering a culture of inclusion – everyone everyday – you have helped the system to work more collaboratively and efficiently.

Thanks to all of you for your great ideas and for taking great care of our patients and one another,

Eric