MISSION MATTERS
Why Mission Matters:
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Scott Reiner
n the July issue of the Recorder, we sat down with Pacific Union President Ricardo Graham to get his thoughts on the mission of the Pacific Union Conference. This month, Adventist Health CEO Scott Reiner explains how mission affects Adventist Health, a Pacific Union-based organization.
What does “mission” mean to you?
Mission is the organization’s reason for existence. Our identity provides meaning and purpose in the work we do every day.
What is the mission statement for your organization?
“Living God’s love by inspiring health, wholeness and hope.”
Does your organization also have separate vision, purpose or values statements?
Our vision is to “transform the health experience of our communities by improving health, enhancing interactions, and making care more accessible.” Our values are integrity, compassion, respect, and excellence.
There is a concern that the realities of managing the business of healthcare will be a distraction from the mission of healthcare. The challenge is … integrating core business with mission so they are not at odds with one another.
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Adventist Health’s mission and vision are strongest when understood together. Together they inspire both internal and external audiences. Our vision statement is the destination, while our mission statement is how we get there. Our mission speaks to a sacred calling. This is more than a job. It is an extension of Jesus’ healing ministry. As we live His love through the work we do, those we serve experience who God is and are inspired to health, wholeness and hope.
Who are the stakeholders in your organization, both internal and external?
Associates (employees), physicians, patients, the communities we serve, business partners, and our sponsor (the Seventh-day Adventist Church).
How does the mission of Adventist Health relate to, and differ from, the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church?
Adventist Health does not see the missions as different from one another, but complementary. When you view them together, you get a depiction of Jesus’ earthly ministry: “Seeking first to fill the people’s needs, He then invited them to follow Him.” As we live our mission, lives and communities are transformed. It is then that people’s minds and hearts are open to know more of Him and His saving grace.
How do we ensure that there is excellence in execution of our mission-driven activities?
Adventist Health has put together a Mission Integration Team and is investing in a Mission Integration Model that is currently being rolled out across our organization. We are also working to ensure alignment of mission understanding and culture.