March 7, 2013 (Maryland Heights, MO.) The American Hospital Association (AHA) has appointed Lauri Tanner, President and CEO of Ranken Jordan – A Pediatric Specialty Hospital, to the AHA’s Region Six Policy Board.

The Region Six board is one of nine boards that provide the AHA board of trustees with perspectives and insights on public policy requiring AHA advocacy.

Tanner’s role will center on the process of policy development. She also will be able to inform regional policy board delegates and state executives about AHA activities and programs.

The AHA encourages dialogue between regional board members and AHA members and state associations. Through the regional policy board, AHA members in Missouri can discuss their needs and concerns with Lauri.

“I’m honored that the AHA has selected me as a member of their regional board,” said Tanner. “We want to develop policy positions that will move us forward and help us meet the healthcare challenges ahead.  We’re very aware of the need to balance quality care and cost containment.  I plan to do everything possible to advocate for children’s healthcare needs and help our regional board appreciate the benefits of Ranken Jordan’s unique model,” Tanner explained. 

“Our Care Beyond the Bedside approach to pediatric specialty care for children can serve as a national model for hospitals. We believe in a system that maintains quality care and saves countless millions of dollars through a comprehensive, family oriented approach that helps kids get better faster. They can go home sooner and stay home.”

Tanner will serve a three-year term and will meet with other board members three times a year.

The meeting sites rotate annually among states in the region.  The AHA’s Region Six includes Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.