Joan Washburn
Vice President
Allegheny Health Network, Women’s Institute
Member Spotlight Q&A: Joan Washburn
Current company, position, and other organizational affiliations:
Vice-President – Allegheny Health Network, Women’s Institute
School(s)/Degree(s)
B.S. The Ohio State University, MBA, Ohio University
What do you enjoy most about your current position?
I enjoy the collaborative work between the Physicians, Staff, and Hospitals of Allegheny Health Network. I came from a smaller health system and was looking forward to having more insight into a larger system. The diversity of the people I work with and the work that I do gives me a sense of fulfillment every day.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am honestly most proud of how my team and I managed to keep everyone safe and continue to provide care to our patients during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Looking back over the last year, I am still amazed at the resilience of our providers and staff. I thought I would say getting my FACHE, or MBA, or the fact that I am a VP at a large network. But it’s the remarkable work that we all continued in the face of so many unknowns this last year. I always knew I could think on my feet and make tough decisions, but not like what we just experienced. To come out on the other side and look back, it’s amazing.
Why did you decide to join ACHE?
You can never stop learning new things. I appreciate that ACHE provides excellent seminars. I also appreciate the networking at events such as the national conferences.
What has been your favorite ACHE event and why?
I’ve actually enjoyed the online learning. My most favorite seminar was Sarah Fotenot’s seminar, Healthcare Law Essentials. She is an excellent speaker with volumes of insight into the legal environment. Her seminar on the Post-Election Healthcare Environment in December was fascinating.
How have you applied your ACHE experience to your current role?
I recently read an article on Ethics and Big Data, and Big Data Analytics. It’s helped me frame some of my presentations and analytical decisions.
What is your favorite thing to do in Pittsburgh?
Of Course…Steelers and Penguins games.
Ways to connect with you (LinkedIn, email, etc.)
LinkedIn, joan.washburn@ahn.org
