Col. Amy Jackson PA-C is making history. A couple of years ago, she took command of Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point, becoming the first PA to do so in the organization’s history.
Jackson set several priorities for her years in command. Her first priority was to serve her organization.
“I have seen a shift in my leadership style since entering into this role. I am redesigning my style in flight, in order to meet the requirements of my position in this executive role,” she said.
The second priority was providing access to care for the West Point community. Jackson saids a silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic operational environment was the enhanced use of virtual healthcare delivery.
She said nearly 40% of their encounters are now done online.That is goof for patients because it is more convenient for them to manage their health conditions. Patients may follow up with them by getting a call on their phones.
“Plus, our pharmacy technicians have completed over 7,000 deliveries of medication to the parking lot, thus reducing contact with any potentially symptomatic patients. It is critical that access to care is number one for our patient community. Virtual healthcare appointments have made access possible in the COVID-19 environment,” she said.
Another priority for Jackson was building community.
“I recognize that I am just one person. In order to achieve our institutional goals, we have to work as a team. All of us have to all be rowing in the same direction. Working collectively, we can achieve positive transformation as an organization, and we can take it to the next level. I am focused on creating relationships and building a collective effort,” she said.
She initiated team-building events and a strategic planning conference to identify a strategy for the organization. This helped create opportunities for cohesive relationships.
“We intend to analyze and validate our mission and vision, chart a path to achieve long term goals and objectives, and develop action plans for those goals and objectives,” she said.
Jackson says successful planning for the future at this level begins with an emphasis on culture and people.
“Our people are our greatest asset and strength. The next step in planning for the future is to understand the environment and the mission and vision of our higher headquarters, and be prepared to operate and succeed in dynamic and ambiguous scenarios.
“I recognize diversity is a strength across our organization. The U.S. Army is a true melting pot – we are by nature a diverse organization! We honor all people; we give them the dignity and respect that they deserve as valued members of a squad and team. People need to hear this from their leadership. I decided to share my story with my “squad” so they might understand me, where I come from, and how we share commonality and differences alike,” she said.
Her community forums, called Tree Talks, provide a platform for soldiers to voice any issues they may have noticed or experienced.
“I am genuinely interested in making things better. I am taking the opportunity to meet people in order to make genuine connections. I expect that these connections will afford me the opportunity to take care of those who follow me, as I believe this is why leaders are entrusted with the responsibility and authority of command,” she said.
After just a couple of months, Jackson is off to a running start, representing PAs at the executive level of leadership and medicine.
