Celebrating a Decade with Mobile Healthcare Association: Reflections from Elizabeth Wallace
As I celebrate my 10th anniversary as the Executive Director of Mobile Healthcare Association, I am filled with gratitude and pride. This decade has been a remarkable journey, and I’d like to share ten highlights that have defined my time here.
1. Celebrating Our Incredible Members
Our members are the heart of Mobile Healthcare Association. Their resilience, collegiality, and industrious spirit never cease to amaze me. I have witnessed unparalleled acts of caring and sharing within our community, making it a truly unique and supportive environment.
2. Team Growth and Expansion
Reflecting on our early days, we started with a small, dedicated team that managed to achieve so much. Today, I am proud to say that we have grown into a robust team that collaborates and shares responsibilities, ensuring we continue to thrive and support our mission effectively.
3. Inspired by Visionaries
One of the most significant influences in my journey has been the inspiration and support I received from industry leaders like Dr. Nancy Oriol. Nancy’s vision for mobile healthcare has shaped our collective dream of a world where everyone has equitable access to quality healthcare.
4. Lifelong Learning in Mobile Healthcare
My journey in mobile healthcare has been an eye-opening learning experience. From deciphering healthcare acronyms like SDOH and SUD to understanding the intricacies of vehicle maintenance to learning about grass-roots advocacy, I have gained knowledge in areas I never imagined, even developing strong opinions on mobile health clinic bathrooms.
5. Embracing the Founders’ Wisdom
The wisdom of our founders, Dr. Anthony Vavasis and Darien DeLorenzo who saw a need to bring together mobile programs from across the United States. Along with support from Mobile Specialty Vehicles, Farber Specialty Vehicles, ADI Mobile Health, and Matthews Specialty, they created the annual conference now in its 20th year. This first building block has led to the impactful Association I am proud to lead.
6. Expanding Member Support
One of my proudest achievements is the growth and evolution of the support we provide to our members. Through grants, educational resources, and specialized training; ITC and Technical Assistance; we have significantly enhanced our ability to meet the needs of our members.
7. Innovating with Technology
Launching our new website was akin to giving birth – a laborious but ultimately rewarding process. Our platform now offers our members comprehensive access to our resource library, member directory, and event calendar, revolutionizing how we connect and support each other.
8. Embracing Change and Adaptability
I am incredibly proud of how our team and mobile programs have embraced change and demonstrated constant growth. Our culture of continuous learning and adaptability ensures we remain at the forefront of the mobile healthcare field.
9. Advocating at the Highest Levels
Being invited to participate in discussions with the White House task force during the COVID-19 pandemic was an unforgettable experience. Advocating for our members and the importance of mobile healthcare at such a high level was an honor and a testament to our impact.
10. Building Trust and Partnerships
Building Trust and Partnerships Building trust with our members and fostering strong partnerships nationwide has been a cornerstone of my leadership. These relationships, built on mutual respect and shared goals, are vital to our success and the continued growth of mobile healthcare. Additionally, the unwavering support and strategic guidance of our Board of Directors have been instrumental in navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities.
Looking Forward
As I reflect on these ten years, I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the future. The milestones we have achieved are just the beginning. I look forward to many more years of innovation, collaboration, and making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Here’s to the next decade of growth and success for the Mobile Healthcare Association!