The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2023 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 25, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 16.
Next is Government Healthcare Executive of the Year finalist William Tinston, who is director of the Federal Electronic Health Record Modernization Office at FEHRM. Here, he shares proud moments, career advice and more.
What are you most proud of having been a part of in your current organization?
I am most proud of the upcoming deployment of the single, common federal electronic health record at Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago, Illinois. Our collaborative, cross-agency team is driving better outcomes for Americans with this deployment.
Which rules do you think you should break more as a government/industry leader?
Rules are different than laws. The whole journey of deploying a federal electronic health record is focused on assessing policies, rules and procedures and revising them to do the right thing. We need to understand how we govern ourselves and adjust as needed and be transparent about it. It’s not so much about breaking rules, but more about changing them so we can accomplish what we can for America and achieve better outcomes.
People are far more important than rules. We need to focus on the people we serve and the people who support us. Rules exist to protect our country and people, and as long as we are doing that, it is fair to address rules with skepticism. Do the right thing and make sure everyone knows what you are doing.
What’s your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Prepare yourself continuously and take opportunities when they present themselves.