Alameda Health System (AHS) is asking employees to share their best ideas for improving efficiency and reducing costs as the organization confronts significant financial strain.
AHS leaders acknowledge that the organization is weathering one of the most challenging periods in its history. Changes in federal and state funding have created a substantial budget gap, requiring AHS to find $100 million in savings to protect its mission and continue caring for the Alameda County community.
While the Center for Operational Transformation (COT) has several initiatives underway to increase revenue and reduce expenses, leaders say that no single effort will be enough to close the gap. They are turning to those closest to the work for help.
“We know that the people closest to the work often have the strongest ideas,” said Alex Gallo, vice president of financial transformation. “Closing this financial gap will take all of us, and your ideas will help lead the way.”
To harness that frontline insight, COT has launched $100M Together, a systemwide effort to gather employee-generated ideas to reduce waste, streamline processes and rethink how services are delivered. Staff can submit suggestions, big or small, on the COT intake form on the intranet page.
So far, the COT has received seven ideas from early contributors who have stepped forward with thoughtful recommendations that are actively being explored. Their participation reflects the collaborative spirit the organization hopes to inspire across the system.
To further recognize this work, Spark certificates will officially launch in January, and employees whose ideas meaningfully support savings or efficiencies will be honored in the AHS newsletter.
Justin Moore, vice president of system innovation, emphasized that every voice matters. “Together, we can meet this challenge,” he said. “Your ideas will help shape our path forward during a time when our mission and our people need it most.”