Fairview Health Services: Pioneering a Lasting Future with Hybrid and Remote Work
The healthcare landscape is evolving, and with it, so too must the way healthcare organizations operate. Fairview Health Services, a leading Minneapolis-based system with over 100 locations and 34,000 employees, recognized this early on. They’ve successfully transitioned from viewing remote work as an exception to embracing it as a core component of their operational strategy – a move that’s not only improved employee satisfaction but also bolstered patient care and driven cost efficiencies.
This isn’t a story of simply reacting to the pandemic; it’s a story of proactive preparation and strategic implementation. let’s explore how Fairview Health Services leveraged technology and a forward-thinking approach to build a thriving hybrid work surroundings.
the Foundation: Microsoft 365 & A Pre-Pandemic Vision
Before 2020, Fairview Health Services had already laid the groundwork for a more flexible future by migrating to Microsoft 365. IT Infrastructure Director Jason Garbisch explains that while the platform enabled remote work, it wasn’t initially a widespread practice. “Working from home was still very much the exception,somthing you might do on a snow day,” he recalls.
This foresight proved invaluable when the need for widespread remote capabilities became critical. The existing M365 infrastructure provided a scalable and secure foundation to build upon.
Scaling for a New reality: Windows 11 & ServiceNow
As remote work became the norm, Fairview Health Services doubled down on its technology investments. Key upgrades included:
* Windows 11 Enterprise: This allowed the institution to fully leverage the power of Microsoft 365 apps and services, enhancing the remote work experience.
* ServiceNow: Implementing ServiceNow streamlined remote support and management, ensuring employees remained productive irrespective of location. This was crucial for maintaining a high level of IT service delivery.
Thes investments weren’t just about keeping the lights on; they were about optimizing the remote work experience.
Beyond Technology: Adapting Workflows & Embracing Telehealth
Fairview Health services quickly discovered that many core business processes could continue seamlessly with a distributed workforce.This realization led to a meaningful expansion of telehealth services, including:
* Video Visits: Providing convenient and accessible care for patients remotely.
* “eVisits” via Virtual Clinic: Offering a streamlined digital experience for routine healthcare needs.
Crucially, collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams played a vital role in maintaining communication and teamwork. The health system found that remote connectivity didn’t compromise the quality of care or internal collaboration.
The Results: Productivity, Cost Savings & Employee Wellbeing
The transition wasn’t without its challenges, requiring careful planning and thorough training. Though, Garbisch emphasizes that it was “mostly seamless and happened really fast.” The results speak for themselves:
* Increased Productivity: Internal studies demonstrate that employees working remotely maintain – and frequently enough exceed – their in-office productivity levels.
* Reduced Costs: Minimizing reliance on expensive real estate translates to significant cost savings for the organization.
* Improved Employee Wellbeing: Eliminating commutes saves employees valuable time and reduces stress, leading to a more engaged and satisfied workforce. Garbisch himself notes saving 60-90 minutes daily by working remotely.
The Future is Hybrid: AI, Automation & a Lasting Shift
Fairview Health Services isn’t resting on its laurels. They’re actively exploring how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and automation can further enhance their remote work capabilities.
EXPLORE: AI improves healthcare collaboration and productivity in a hybrid work environment.
The organization is also taking a strategic approach to modern work, recognizing its long-term benefits. Learn more about Fairview’s strategic approach to modern work here.
Garbisch’s prediction is clear: ”I personally think remote work is here to stay.” This isn’t just a technological trend; it’s a basic shift in how we work, and Fairview Health Services is leading the