Communications Committee members reached out to PHA’s President and CEO Brad Wong with questions of interest to PH Professional Network (PHPN). This is the first time he has discussed his vision for PHPN and the recent PHA staffing changes with the full PHPN membership.
What is your vision for PHPN?
I recognize that you are all busy professionals, who are also raising families, going back to school, holding second jobs or otherwise being pulled in many directions outside of your hectic work schedule. As PHA staff, we try to make it as easy as possible for you to get the CE credits you need for licensure, volunteer your time, be engaged and be recognized for your efforts. In addition to providing you with valued educational and professional resources, it is my goal that anyone dedicating their time to PHA not only gains a sense of appreciation and satisfaction, but also finds it to be an enjoyable experience.
Since I have been here, one of the things I have heard repeatedly in the medical arena is that the best care is delivered when all members of the PH care team work together. If teamwork is what is best for patients, I would like to make sure we replicate that in the PHA environment. It is my hope that we can also help PHPN increase the value of what it offers in terms of education, networking, professional development and community activism. By doing so, PHPN will be recognized not only as the PH-focused professional organization to belong to, but also as the place you want to be because of the collegiality of its members.
Can you address the changes at PHA and how the recent staff reductions affect PHPN?
The staff realignment that we went through last fall was a difficult decision. Moving forward we want to build upon past successes, become more flexible and grow our programs, including PHPN. Much of the realignment had to do with making our operations at PHA Headquarters more efficient, including reducing the level of redundant activity and lowering overhead expenses so that more resources could be directed toward programs like PHPN.
My experience attending PHA’s International Conference & Scientific Sessions in Dallas and going through the job application process showed me how there are no walls at PHA and everyone is family: non-physician clinicians, physicians, patients, caregivers and industry partners. From the outside, it looked seamless, and it is what makes PHA so effective and a great home for the PH community. We want to bring that same feeling of family into our work environment at PHA by breaking down silos and bringing down walls. From health care professional volunteers to staff, we want to make sure everyone is recognized for the contributions that they bring and that my office sends a message that input from all individuals is welcome.
How does PHA plan to support local fundraising events since the chapters are no longer in place?
Just like no two fingerprints are alike, the same holds true for fundraising events. The best ones are unique and reflect the spirit of the local community and volunteers as they provide a rewarding opportunity to fight back. A cookie cutter planning approach just can’t do that, so we welcome PHPN members to partner with us and share how we can support their success and ensure that events showcase the individuality of their volunteers and supporters. PHA’s goal is to be a helpful partner, not to take over the management of these events. Whether event organizers need a cheerleader, a facilitator or one of the many options in between, we want to provide the optimal level of support for each community. The best way to start planning your event is by contacting our development office at 301-565-3004 x753 or Events@PHAssociation.org.
How much does PHPN contribute to PHA’s educational activities?
PHPN is heavily involved in the development of PHA’s educational activities. The PHPN Symposium Committee plans a live educational meeting for their colleagues while the PHPN Practice Committee produces at-home practice tools and resources for health care professionals. The PHPN Education Committee develops educational materials for patients, and the PHPN Communications Committee spreads the word about new resources and upcoming activities.
PHPN members are also representatives on other committees that support Conference, PHA on the Road, PHA Online University, Advances in Pulmonary Hypertension, early diagnosis and more. They also serve on PHA’s Board of Trustees and Scientific Leadership Council. Members present webinars to patients and colleagues; speak at Conference, PH on the Road and the PHPN Symposium; and share knowledge on the PHPN email group. It is hard to imagine a more dedicated group of health care professionals than those PHPN members volunteering their time with PHA.
Future issues of the PH Pulse will check back in with Brad and provide more information about PHPN’s role in PHA. The committee thanks Brad for his time and candid responses!