National speaker discusses the future of health in America

On Wednesday, January 30, former Aetna CEO Mark Bertolini will discuss “When East Meets West: The Future of a Healthy America.” The presentation takes place at 6 pm at the National Museum of Wildlife Art, as part of the St. John’s Health Words on Wellness speaker series.

Health care was reported as a top concern of Americans in the exit polls for the November 2018 elections. Yet despite spending more on health care than any other country, the US remains ranked 37th in the world for health care outcomes. Bertolini, recognized in 2017 as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare, embraced eastern and western medical techniques to recover from a near-fatal ski accident. He then transformed the Aetna workforce with mindfulness, yoga, and a significant raise for front line employees. Could this approach set the new standard for Americans’ health?

“Mark Bertolini’s presentation is timely and warranted,” said Julia Heemstra, director of St. John’s Health wellness department. “His leadership style of compassion and collaboration had a dramatic impact on Aetna as an institution. We look forward to seeing how his thoughts and actions might influence our community.”

The presentation will be facilitated by Susan Bauer-Wu, PhD, RN, FAAN, president of the Mind and Life Institute. Dr. Bauer-Wu is a fellow in the American Academy of Nursing. She previously served on the faculties of Harvard and UMass medical schools, as president of the Society for Integrative Oncology, and as director of a research center at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The event is free, but ticketed. Tickets are available at tetonhospital.org/wordsonwellness. Doors open at 5:15 pm, and appetizers and a cash bar will be available. Tickets include access to the galleries prior to the presentation. For information, call 307.739.7399.