Courage to be First

Courage to be First: The Journey of Mid-Columbia Medical Center Becoming the First Planetree Hospital in America was released in March by Second River Healthcare Press.

The book tells the story of MCMC’s dramatic transformation over the last two decades, beginning with the hospital’s implementation of the Planetree model of care in the early 90s. MCMC’s story was written by Dick Baltus, as told by former CEO Mark Scott, current CEO Duane Francis and many hospital employees, with Leland Kaiser, Ph.D., offering commentary after each chapter.

Courage to be First is targeted at readers in the healthcare management industry, as well as any business committed to improving customer service. Like the hospital itself, the book has received enthusiastic reviews.

B. Joseph Pine, co-author of The Experience Economy (named one of The Best 100 Business Books of All Time) wrote: “There is not a hospital in the world – or any company in the healthcare field, for that matter – that could not benefit from this enlightening book. Read how Mid-Columbia Medical Center has transformed itself into a shining light so you, too, can inspire your employees, enhance your patient experience and improve your outcomes.”