In Massachusetts, only 3% are not insured, but 22% have problems in access. The situation in the Southeast Region is particularly difficult due to a shortage of providers which is severe and becoming critical. To begin to address these concerns, about 50 people were invited to participate in A Deliberation on Health Care Access, a structured dialogue of regional leaders in the health care community and members of the Leadership South Coast class of 2010  at the Advanced Technology and Manufacturing Center (ATMC) in Fall River on May 12, 2010. "I selected the structured dialogue approach for this event based on my personal experience with the process and its facilitation team," stated Leadership SouthCoast Director Michael Metzler, former CEO of Saint Anne's Hospital. "We have an opportunity to be a national model in how we address issues such as access, cost, and wellness within the reformed system." The work of the day will be collected on a website and will hopefully motivate future work and grants to address priority needs. Click here for the Herald News article about the forum. For further information, contact Michael Metzler at 508-264-2818
 

(Top row, left and center) United Way of Greater Fall River Executive Director Robert Horne listens as Leadership SouthCoast Director Michael Metzler welcomes the group. (Top row, right) Uma Kolli, M.D., of HealthFirst Family Care Center speaks with Fall River Schools Director of Nursing Karen Long during a break. (Middle row, left) Leadership SouthCoast participant Dan DeCosta of Citizens-Union Savings Bank posts a recommendation on improving access to healthcare on the wall with others from his team members. (Middle row, right) Robin Cabral of the Greater New Bedford Association of Realtors watches as Julie Jennings of Sylvia & Company Insurance Agency places a sticker on one of her priority recommendations. (Bottom row) Michael Metzler reviews the postings after they have been grouped by participants.