Rising healthcare demands, driven by technological advancements, and progressing patient expectations, are transforming the industry. In this changing environment, visionary leaders play a crucial role in managing the complexities and initiating innovative solutions. The challenge of addressing these increasing demands while maintaining high standards of care requires a combination of strategic insight and compassionate leadership.
One such leader marking significant steps in the healthcare sector is Boris Rivic, the Chief Executive Officer of Arsano Medical Group. Rivic has utilized his extensive experience from various industries to revolutionize healthcare management in Croatia. Under his leadership, the organization has quickly emerged as a powerhouse in the private healthcare market, setting new benchmarks for quality and growth.
Rivic’s journey into healthcare leadership is marked by a strategic transition from other industries, driven by a profound commitment to improving healthcare delivery. At the age of 39, he stepped into the healthcare sector with nearly two decades of leadership experience, bringing a fresh perspective to the industry. His previous roles, including a supervisory position at the Special Hospital for Orthopedics Dr. Nemec and deputy director at Aviva Polyclinic, laid the foundation for his current role as CEO, where he continues to drive Arsano Medical Group’s mission forward.
Let’s explore how Rivic’s transformative journey from industry leader to healthcare pioneer is reshaping Croatia’s healthcare horizon with innovative strategies and progressive leadership!
An Ambitious Leader in Healthcare
Boris Rivic’s decision to pursue a career in healthcare leadership was fueled by the sector’s potential for innovation and the pressing need for improved healthcare services. “The healthcare sector is very inspiring for me, especially at this time when the sector is exposed to accelerated changes initiated by new technologies and trends,” he explains. The demographic shifts in Croatia and Europe, particularly the aging population, highlighted the urgent need for diverse health services and robust healthcare management.
Rivic recognized that the increasing focus on preventive care and healthy lifestyles, coupled with a shortage of qualified professionals in healthcare management, presented both challenges and opportunities. “Croatia and Europe are faced with a very pronounced trend of population aging, which boosts the need for a wide variety of health services,” he notes. This understanding prompted him to apply his leadership skills to the healthcare sector, aiming to set new standards for service delivery and organizational efficiency.
Milestones of Growth and Excellence
Since its inception, Arsano Medical Group has achieved several key milestones that score its rapid growth and market leadership. In just three years, the group has become the largest private healthcare investor in Croatia and the region, with investments exceeding 55 million euros. This impressive growth is reflected in their annual revenue of 45 million euros and a workforce of over 600 employees. The group’s network, comprising eight institutions across Croatia and Slovenia, serves more than 230,000 patients annually.
Rivic takes pride in the group’s reputation as a desirable employer and a provider of top-quality healthcare services. “We are proud of the fact that in a very short time we have been recognized as a desirable investor and business partner, as a desirable employer, and as a provider of top-quality healthcare services,” he asserts.
Evolving Leadership Style
Transitioning from other industries to healthcare required Rivic to adapt his leadership style to the unique demands of the sector. He emphasizes the importance of communication skills in healthcare leadership, stating, “Considering that healthcare is a rather unique and sensitive sector in terms of leadership, developed communication skills are key.” This sensitivity stems from the dual expectations of patients and healthcare professionals, both of whom seek more than just transactional relationships.
Rivic’s leadership philosophy centers on creating an environment where healthcare teams can thrive, fully focusing on patient care and well-being. “My job is to provide the best conditions for healthcare teams so that they can fully focus on patients and their well-being,” he says. This patient-centric approach not only ensures high-quality care but also aligns with the overarching business goals of Arsano Medical Group.
Addressing Systemic Challenges
The Croatian healthcare system, like many others in the EU, faces significant challenges, particularly in ensuring the availability and quality of health services. Rivic highlights the issue of sector fragmentation, with many small institutions lacking the resources for sustainable growth. “The biggest challenge is the lack of consolidation of the sector, which is dominated by a large and still growing number of small institutions that do not have the necessary resources to ensure long-term growth in the quality of healthcare services,” he explains.
Arsano Medical Group addresses these challenges through strategic investments and a focus on quality and accessibility. By consolidating smaller institutions and integrating them into a cohesive network, the group enhances service standards and operational efficiency. This strategy not only improves patient care but also positions Arsano Medical Group as a leader in the private healthcare sector.
Technological Advancements and Innovation
Innovation is central to Arsano Medical Group’s strategy, prioritizing the digitization and personalization of healthcare services. Rivic explains the significance of technological trends, particularly artificial intelligence in radiology. “Key trends are digitization and personalization of all possible services. In radiology, the technological trend of artificial intelligence is additionally highlighted,” he notes.
The group’s investment in digital infrastructure, including the Meddox application, has revolutionized patient care by digitizing medical documentation and facilitating personalized communication. Additionally, advanced CRM platforms and comprehensive digital systems across hospitals, radiology and laboratories ensure seamless patient journeys and proactive health management. This integration of technology not only enhances patient experience but also streamlines operations, making high-quality care more accessible.
Balancing Innovation with Patient Care
Maintaining a balance between innovation and high-quality patient care is a constant focus for Arsano Medical Group. The group’s commitment to continuous investment in state-of-the-art medical equipment and ongoing training for healthcare workers ensures that they remain at the forefront of medical advancements. Rivic emphasizes the importance of detail-oriented service, stating, “We are continuously developing our medical hospitality program and our patient discharge system, through which we ensure that instead of a sheet of paper, our users receive a clear picture of their condition and precise instructions on how they can continue with their best possible lifestyle.”
This careful approach to patient care is a significant competitive advantage for the hospital. By fostering structured and focused relationships with patients, the group not only enhances patient satisfaction but also strengthens its market position.
Navigating Leadership Challenges
Leading a large and diverse organization comes with its own set of challenges. Rivic acknowledges the complexity of managing multiple stakeholders with varying needs and expectations. “The most demanding thing about my current role is the necessity of having a 360 view all the time,” he admits. Balancing the goals of investors, board members, healthcare professionals, and patients requires a nuanced and inclusive approach.
Despite these challenges, his strategic vision and effective communication skills have been instrumental in creating a cohesive and motivated team. His ability to steer these complexities and drive the organization towards its goals represents his leadership skill.
Attracting and Retaining Top Talent
In a competitive healthcare market, attracting and retaining top medical talent is crucial. Arsano Medical Group’s reputation as a leading employer in private healthcare is built on continuous investment in education, training, and the latest equipment. Rivic notes, “Due to our technological equipment and our leading market position, we are a quality reference for every young healthcare worker.” This recognition as a desirable employer not only attracts young professionals but also encourages a culture of excellence and innovation within the organization.
Strategic Goals for the Future
Rivic envisions ambitious goals for Arsano Medical Group, aiming to establish it as the benchmark for top-tier service in private healthcare, the sector’s best employer, and the region’s most successful business. “The key goals are to position Arsano Medical Group as a synonym for the highest standard of service in private healthcare in Croatia and the region,” he asserts.
With the support of investors and a dedicated team, he is confident that these goals are within reach. His strategic vision and commitment to excellence will continue to drive the group’s growth and success in the coming years.
Integrating Cross-Vertical Services
One of the innovative strategies of Arsano Medical Group is its integration with other healthcare verticals within the Provectus Capital Partners portfolio. This includes collaborations with Adria Dental Group and Vetti Group, leaders in dental and veterinary care, respectively. By creating a network that spans multiple healthcare domains, the organization can offer comprehensive and personalized healthcare solutions to its patients.
This approach not only broadens the scope of services available to patients but also enhances the overall patient experience. “The club of users of all our services in those three verticals enables us to offer various personalized promotional offers,” Rivic explains. This integrated model positions the organization as a holistic healthcare provider, capable of meeting a wide range of patients’ needs.
Community and Patient Engagement
Arsano Medical Group places a strong emphasis on community engagement and patient education. By promoting a proactive approach to health and wellness, the group aims to empower patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain healthy lifestyles. This is achieved through various outreach programs, workshops, and the use of digital platforms to provide valuable health information.
Rivic believes that engaging with the community and educating patients are vital components of modern healthcare. “We continuously research possibilities of offering additional services to our users,” he says.
Advice for Aspiring Healthcare Executives
As a strategic leader, Rivic offers valuable advice to aspiring healthcare executives in Croatia. “Cultivate strong partnerships, stay informed on industry trends, and lead with integrity to inspire positive growth and advancement in healthcare,” he advises.
His journey and achievements inspire those looking to make a significant impact in the healthcare sector. His leadership not only transforms Arsano Medical Group but also sets a basis for excellence in private healthcare.
Rivic’s leadership highlights the transformative impact of strategic vision, innovation and a patient-centered approach in healthcare. His journey from managing a small orthopedic clinic to leading the largest private healthcare holding in the region underlines his adaptability and commitment to excellence. As Arsano Medical Group continues to grow and set new standards in private healthcare, Rivic’s farsighted leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the industry.
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