Janice Harbin

Janice Harbin

President and Chief Executive Officer, Anthony L. Jordan Health Corp. (Jordan Health)

Years in current role: 8.5

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I have been in community health care for nearly 40 years. Community is the center of the mission of the Jordan Health organization. It is the heart and passion that drives all we do. Some think it is a selfless act. However, the fulfillment and joy you receive daily from your patients, teammates and community is immeasurable. It’s been life-changing to ensure that quality health care is available for the patients who enter through Jordan doors and ensure everyone in the community has access to quality care.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve dealt with over the past year?

Over the past year, with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we were challenged on how to navigate in-person care for some of our complex patients and move forward significantly with a telemedicine model for others. We continue to find the balance between in-person and telehealth, especially since telephones are the primary avenue for telemedicine for a significant number of the patients we serve.

What do you see as the biggest changes in the health care industry in the next 3-5 years?

Connectivity. Both urban and rural underserved communities must be prioritized to ensure that the patients served in community health centers, like Jordan Health, have the technology to navigate innovation care which is increasingly available to those who are not socially and economically challenged.

What community organizations do you support as a volunteer and why?

I am a Rochester Rotarian and a member of our School #8 Scholarship Program. Helping students to navigate the world of opportunities enabled me to grow with them. My student, who I met when she was only 12, has just graduated high school and has a scholarship to RIT. Her career choice at age 12 was “putting make up on people.” At an afternoon tea, I shared with her that I saw her as an Oscar Award winning make-up artist for an award-winning movie. “Nope, she said, I just like doing make up.” This fall this young lady will enter college to pursue a career in mental, behavioral health. The earlier we can intercede with our children, and as a village, they are all our children; we can help them see the greatness and possibilities in themselves. Why do I volunteer? That’s why.

What are you most looking forward to doing as COVID restrictions ease?

HUGS!!!!