By AACVPR | August 17, 2018
AACVPR is led by people passionate about the impact the organization can have. This concludes our News & Views 2017-18 "Get to Know Your Board" series. We wrap up the series by getting to know Cathie Biga, your 2017-18 AACVPR Director at Large. Learn about her professional background, what she predicts will be a "hot topic" this year, and what she sees as the most valuable benefit of being an AACVPR member.
Tell us a bit about your professional background.
I was a critical care nurse for 15 years, caring for CCU patients, and then I went on to become a CV service line leader followed by stints as a hospital vice-president and CEO. I have been on the practice side of healthcare for 20 years – but I really am not that old!
What is your position on the Board, and what do you hope to accomplish while in this position?
I am honored to be an at large member of the Board and hope to bring my expertise to this talented entity as we expand the utilization of cardiac rehab in this rapidly changing world. It will be only through the types of intervention that rehab offers that we will truly be taking care of our patients throughout the continuum of their disease process.
How long have you been a member of AACVPR, and what inspired you to join the AACVPR Board?
Two years, and I was inspired by the leasers of this incredible organization that not only believe in their mission, but also identify continuous opportunities and methods to expand the reach of cardiac, pulmonary and PAD rehab to our communities and patients.
Are there any key aspects of the field you hope to explore this year? Anything you predict will be a “hot topic” in 2018?
I think the quadruple aim and specifically the intersection of cost and quality will remain our focus in health care delivery. We must ensure access to rehab, high utilization and strong outcomes for our patients
What do you see as the most valuable benefit of being an AACVPR member?
Access to incredible resources and networking. Only through networking can we identify best practices and replicate them in our own environment.
If you have a favorite quote, could you share it with us?
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
What is one thing you love to do in your free time?
Playing and enjoying my grandkids!