A Message From Our CEO
Welcome to Avera’s 2021 Annual Report. Thank you for your interest in our health ministry.
We end fiscal year 2021 in a spirit of hope. The COVID-19 vaccines have been a true gift to our nation and world. Although waves of the pandemic are ongoing, we are entering a new normal.
Every individual, every family across our world has experienced challenges. Yet it’s especially challenging for health care organizations on the front lines of fighting the pandemic. We were called upon to prevent illness among our general population by educating people about this virus. To care for the sick and dying, even when we were running short of space or the personnel to do so. To be creative and resourceful in the face of shortages. To take a leading role in vaccinations. As a result, Avera teams achieved some amazing innovations, such as virtual visits and specialized at-home care to take pressure off hospitals.
The 20,000 employees of Avera display an amazing depth of commitment to the mission of Avera as we live out our gospel values of hospitality, compassion and stewardship.
This calling is more than an attitude of care and compassion. It’s doing the right thing at the right time for each patient. In a word, this is quality, and our quality at Avera is validated by numerous awards and recognitions. In 2021 – even in the midst of a worldwide pandemic – Avera was named among the 15 Top Health Systems in the nation.
It’s been an extraordinary time spent in uncharted territory. I’m so grateful for the people of Avera who stepped forward to say “we’re going to do this” – and “we’re going to do this together.”
Now it’s time to look forward with a renewed focus, to grow and enhance our health ministry, and meet our patients where they are through innovative technology.
I am grateful to our sponsors, the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters, the senior leadership and Board of Directors who faithfully serve alongside me, as well as all the people and partners who come together to form this great organization known as Avera. Together, we impact many lives for the greater good.
Sincerely,
Bob Sutton, President and CEO