Case Studies
Building Resilience: Developing a Comprehensive System Emergency Management Program for a Major Healthcare System
Faced with the challenge of establishing a system emergency management capability across its vast network, a major healthcare system partnered with Bryghtpath to design and implement a comprehensive System Emergency Management Program, meeting ISO 22361 standards and Joint Commission requirements while integrating seamlessly with existing hospital capabilities.
The Opportunity
A major healthcare system in the southwestern United States recognized the need to enhance its emergency management capabilities to address growing complexities in healthcare operations and regulatory compliance. With existing hospital-level emergency management in place, the organization sought to develop a comprehensive System Emergency Management Program that aligned with ISO 22361 standards and Joint Commission requirements.
The goal was to unify crisis response across the system, expand support for non-hospital facilities and teams, improve governance, and integrate business continuity and hospital emergency management into a cohesive framework, all while preparing for a seamless transition to an in-house team.
Approach and Results
Bryghtpath partnered with the healthcare system to develop a comprehensive System Emergency Management Program designed to meet ISO 22361 and Joint Commission standards. The effort began with the creation of a governance strategy that aligned Business Continuity, System Emergency Management, and Hospital Emergency Management under a unified framework. This included establishing a resilience steering committee to ensure cross-organizational collaboration and alignment.
The program’s foundation was built through the development of a System Emergency Management Framework and Plan, which included a crisis management structure, templates, operational checklists, and training materials. Bryghtpath also implemented a scalable exercise strategy, leveraging tabletop simulations and a lessons-learned methodology to drive continuous improvement and ensure program effectiveness.
By collaborating closely with hospital emergency management teams, Bryghtpath ensured seamless integration between system and local-level capabilities. The program was transitioned to the in-house team, supported by training and maturity scoring tools to enable long-term sustainability. The result was a resilient and cohesive emergency management program, enhancing the organization’s ability to respond to crises systemwide.
Key Activities
- Developed a governance strategy to unify Business Continuity, System, and Hospital Emergency Management programs.
- Designed a System Emergency Management Framework and Plan, aligned with ISO 22361 and Joint Commission standards.
- Created training materials and conducted sessions for stakeholders, crisis team members, and executives.
- Implemented an exercise strategy with tabletop simulations and a structured lessons-learned process.
- Collaborated with hospital teams to ensure alignment and transitioned the program to the in-house team.
Outcomes
- A fully implemented System Emergency Management Program aligned with ISO 22361 and Joint Commission standards.
- Improved governance and integration across Business Continuity, System, and Hospital Emergency Management programs.
- Enhanced preparedness through tailored training, exercises, and a structured lessons-learned process.
- A unified crisis management framework supporting systemwide collaboration and resilience.
- Seamless transition of the program to the in-house team for ongoing management and future growth.
Get a PDF copy of this Case Study
We can help.
Let the experts at Bryghtpath put their decades of experience to work for your organization
Our team has the experience, tools, and partnerships to help your organization successfully navigate the rough waters ahead – and ensure your organization is prepared.