About Mike Gifford
Mike Gifford, born in Rochester, Minnesota, is a monumental force in healthcare. He is unarguably a center of influence in redefining public health care in America, thanks to his relentless dedication, masterful leadership, and incessant longing for knowledge–traits that have undeniably played a crucial role in his trailblazing career.
Health Care Revolution
During his three decades, he has tremendously improved patient outcomes and expanded services. Starting with only 750 patients served and an annual budget of $2 million, he endeavored to create a healthcare platform that was extraordinary in its capacity to provide care. Through his leadership prowess, patient numbers have soared to 15,000 with an annual budget of $264 million. Such exponential growth is indicative of his committed professionalism and unwavering dedication.
Healthcare Innovation and Beyond
Establishing the HIV Medical Home was a tectonic shift in achieving healthcare excellence. This paradigm, the only one approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, integrates health and social services to provide comprehensive, unrestricted patient care. Through his innovation and continuous learning approach, he established a pharmacy, providing essential medication to patients while creating a new revenue source to maintain and expand services.
Expanding the Reach
From increasing the locations where operations take place to providing in-depth technical assistance to organizations in over 30 states, his strategic business acumen guided the expansion on a national level. Several HIV Medical Homes have been opened in locations around the US, and patients consistently exceed national health outcomes standards, dramatically reducing healthcare costs simultaneously.
A Commitment to Equity
Mike has not just exemplified leadership in healthcare; he has passionately worked towards eliminating racial and social disparities plaguing our society. He has actively participated in initiatives such as CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion and campaigned against healthcare injustices, food insecurity, and other policy areas. His commitment to a more equitable society is clear from his tireless work on diversity and inclusion programs within his sphere of influence and beyond.
Distinguished Scholar
His commitment to continuous learning is apparent in his academic endeavors. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and International Relations from Augustana University and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, he has continually strived for academic growth. This quest for knowledge, coupled with a strong work ethic, has driven his success in health care.
Charitable Endeavors
Beyond his dedication to health care, he is actively involved in charitable activities. He serves as a board member for OCHIN and a St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church council member. His engagement in these roles further highlights his commitment to his community and the less privileged.
Interests and Hobbies
When he isn’t working on changing the face of health care, he passionately delves into social determinants of health, racial and social justice, politics and policy, substance use, and the opioid epidemic. Additionally, he enjoys outdoor activities, a testament to his dedication to maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
A journey through Mike Gifford’s life presents a tale of relentless dedication, ceaseless learning, astute professionalism, and transformative leadership. As a man genuinely committed to improving the quality of health care in America, his work and life continue to leave an indelible mark in the healthcare sector and beyond. He is the epitome of leadership, hard work and a model of continuing growth and accomplishment.
