Innovating in healthcare: the U.S. experience

This Learning Expedition aimed to draw inspiration from the innovation dynamics driven by New York’s healthcare institutions, often facing major challenges: unequal access to care, emergency department pressure, aging population, and economic constraints — all acting as catalysts for innovation among committed organizations.

The mission began at the NYU Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, with an opening session focused on analyzing the U.S. healthcare system. Three distinguished experts offered complementary insights:

• Victor G. Rodwin, Professor Emeritus at NYU Wagner and a recognized expert on the American healthcare system
• Maryaline Catillon, health economist at Analysis Group, trained at Harvard, EHESP, and the Pasteur-Cnam School of Public Health
• Kenneth Mandl, Director of the Health Informatics Program at Harvard Medical School

The discussions centered on:

• Healthcare organization in the U.S.
• Funding models
• Data interoperability and digital transformation
• Innovation and performance dynamics

In the afternoon, the delegation visited Oscar Health, a disruptive health insurance company. Hosted by Mario Schlosser, Co-Founder and CTO, participants explored a model built on artificial intelligence, data-driven value creation, and enhanced patient experience.

The following day began at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, a frontline facility in Queens with one of New York’s busiest emergency departments.

Dr. Bruce Franz (CEO) and Dr. Sabiha Raoof (CMO) shared valuable insights into innovating under pressure in a high-demand environment.

Next, the group visited Northwell Health, the largest integrated health system in New York State.
Leaders Michael Dowling (President & CEO), Elaine Brennan, and Jeff Kraut presented their vision of strategic innovation, governance, and performance.

The day concluded at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), a world-leading oncology center, where access to care, personalized treatment, and scientific innovation were at the core of discussions.
Special thanks to Dr. Francesca Gany, Dr. Selwyn Vickers, Dr. Shelly Anderson, Dr. Anaeze Offodile, and Dr. Agnes Viale for their warm welcome and the rich exchange of ideas.

The following morning, the group visited Montefiore Health System, an academic health system affiliated with Albert Einstein College of Medicine, known for its strong commitment to health equity.

Highlights included:

• An overview of Montefiore’s organizational model
• Their Magnet journey
• Care Management practices
• An exchange with a French surgeon on Franco-American research collaboration

Warm thanks to Peter P. Semczuk, Maureen Scanlan, and Enas Ibrahim for their inspiring contributions.

In the afternoon, the delegation visited NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital / Weill Cornell Medicine, with a focus on geriatric care.

Participants explored the work of:

• The Center on Aging and Behavioral Research
• The Center for Elder Abuse Prevention (CEASe)
• The Continuing Day Treatment Program focused on mental health
• Special thanks to Dr. Sara Czaja, Dr Mark Lachs, Dr Cary Reid, and the entire team for their commitment and thoughtful engagement.

The final day began at NYC Health + Hospitals | Bellevue, the oldest public hospital in the United States.
Highlights included:

• A presentation on the institution’s history and mission
• A forum on psychiatry, nursing, and patient experience
• A focus on the Special Pathogens Program
• Tours of emergency, critical care, and ambulatory services

In the afternoon, the delegation visited NYU Langone Health, an academic medical center recognized for its quality strategy, strong performance culture, and advanced technology integration. Discussions focused on governance models, risk and infection control, hospital capacity, and a visit to the advanced cardiac imaging unit.

The mission concluded with a collective debriefing session — a precious opportunity to reflect on key learnings, strengthen group bonds, and envision future perspectives.

Throughout this intense and inspiring week, the delegation met committed professionals, forward-thinking institutions, and systems where innovation arises out of necessity.

One shared conviction emerged: innovation only matters if it truly improves care and enhances the lives of patients.