On Feb. 24, community leaders, health care professionals and business partners gathered at the SMU Cox School of Business for Collective Impact: The Intersection of Health, Business and Innovation, a conversation focused on the future of health in Dallas County.
Held at the James M. Collins Executive Education Center, the evening brought together leaders across the health, business and philanthropic communities for a candid discussion about the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of health care in the region.
Hosted by Parkland Health Foundation, the event created space for meaningful conversation around how collaboration and innovation can improve health outcomes across Dallas County.
The discussion was moderated by Parkland Health Foundation President and CEO Dr. Michael Horne and featured Dr. Frederick Cerise, president and CEO of Parkland Health, alongside Melissa Thompson, president of the McKesson Foundation. Together, they shared perspectives from both the health system and philanthropic sectors on the evolving role of technology and partnership in shaping the future of care.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence in health care and how emerging technologies are influencing both clinical care and hospital operations. Panelists discussed how new tools are helping physicians access better data, improve decision-making and coordinate care more effectively across complex health systems.
The panel also reflected on how innovation and technology are contributing to stronger health outcomes in Dallas County and across health systems nationwide. Hospitals and community partners are increasingly using data and emerging technologies to expand access to care, identify gaps in services and improve the overall health of their communities.
Attendees also heard early insights into themes emerging from Dallas County’s Community Health Needs Assessment, which helps identify the region’s most pressing health challenges. The assessment provides valuable context for understanding the social, economic and health factors that influence outcomes across Dallas County and helps guide future strategies aimed at improving community health.
Throughout the evening, speakers emphasized the importance of collaboration between health systems, philanthropic partners and the business community. Conversations like these help spark new ideas, strengthen relationships and identify opportunities to improve care for the communities Parkland serves.
The event reflects Parkland Health Foundation’s broader effort to bring together leaders who care deeply about the future of health in Dallas County. By creating space for these conversations, the Foundation helps encourage partnerships and ideas that support better care and healthier communities.
Want to see the event for yourself? Click below to watch the full recording.