What happens when patient care meets business reality?

Michelle Eichelmann, Executive Director for Oncology Services at St. Luke's, shares her journey from chiropractor to healthcare administrator and discusses the challenges of running a cancer center in today's healthcare environment.

• Originally from St. Louis with a doctorate from Logan College of Chiropractic
• Specialized in symptom management and acupuncture for oncology patients before transitioning to leadership
• Oversees medical oncology, radiation oncology, infusion centers, research, tumor registry, and navigation
• Identifies cost containment as a major challenge while maintaining quality care
• Explains that standardized treatment guidelines (NCCN) dictate cancer therapies, not cost considerations
• Discusses how hospitals often operate at financial losses while continuing to serve communities
• Describes the shift toward value-based medicine and quality metrics driving reimbursement
• Emphasizes transparent communication and trust-building as essential leadership qualities
• Shares optimistic but cautious perspective on AI's potential to improve healthcare efficiency

The Friends of St. Luke's philanthropic organization helps fund millions of dollars in free care annually. To contribute, visit the Office of Development at St. Luke's website.