Accelerate Magazine October 2020

WAUKESHA COUNTY BUSINESS ALLIANCE, INC. | WAUKESHA.ORG 30 Describe your company. Serving Wisconsin since 1848, Ascension is a faith- based healthcare organization committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care to all, with special attention to persons living in poverty and those most vulnerable. In Wisconsin, Ascension operates 24 hospital campuses, more than 100 related healthcare facilities and employs more than 1,300 primary and specialty care clinicians from Racine to Eagle River. What is your role? I serve as the Vice President for Medical Affairs and the Chief Medical Officer at Ascension Elmbrook in Brookfield. I make sure our physicians are aligned with delivering high quality, compassionate care that is patient centric. What has been your organization's biggest challenge? While all our sites of care have prepared surge plans to adapt to the changing needs of our community, the rate at which the coronavirus continues to spread is concerning. Currently, the record number of COVID-19 cases and hospital inpatient volumes our state is experiencing is the biggest challenge we face. We are closely monitoring this rapidly evolving situation to ensure we continue to protect our patients, associates and the communities we are privileged to serve. What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career? The most important lesson I’ve learned as a physician and a leader is to take the time to listen to all sides of an issue and offer frank advice in a respectful and fair manner. What is your personal key to success? I approach each day with positive energy and a smile. What’s the first job you ever had? My first job was when I was in 7th grade. I landscaped for an apartment complex during the summer. What is your dream job? My dream job is to be the owner of the New York Knicks with the goal of returning the team to contention. What book are you currently reading or would you recommend? I’m currently reading Ibram X. Kendi's, "How to be an Antiracist” and next I’ll be reading Isabel Wilkerson's "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents.” What is something unique about you? Though my family is originally from India, I was privileged to grow up in a predominantly Italian village in New York. As a result, I am actually a pretty decent Italian chef. What is your favorite pastime? In my freetime I enjoy sports, as a player and a spectator. I particularly enjoy tennis, football and basketball. (I’m a season ticket holder for the Milwaukee Bucks.) • DR. MUSHIR HASSAN Vice President of Medical Affairs & Chief Medical Officer, Ascension Elmbrook EXECUTIVE PROFILE