Welcome to Pontiac: A New Vision for Healthcare
Pontiac, a city known for its rich history and community spirit, is about to see some exciting changes in its healthcare landscape! Recently, Lorenzo Suter stepped into his new role as the president and CEO of McLaren Oakland, bringing a personal and passionate perspective shaped by his own challenging background.
A Journey Born from Hardship
After growing up homeless in a tough environment near Lexington, Kentucky, Lorenzo’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly and made the tough decision to pull him out of a bad situation, Suter learned early that environments can either uplift or hold us back. “It was one of the most creative and ingenious decisions I’ve ever witnessed,” he recalled, speaking about their life under a bridge and his mother’s multiple jobs to provide for them. Thankfully, support finally came through Habitat for Humanity, which helped them secure a home. Suter now proudly serves on its board of directors, giving back to the community that saved him.
A Heart for Service and Change
Suter’s experiences shaped his values, pushing him to focus on serving others and igniting change wherever possible. He remembers meeting a local pastor and a Rotarian who became his mentors and encouraged him to pursue his passion for health care. Over the years, he’s transitioned from being a certified nursing assistant to holding advanced degrees in healthcare administration from Vanderbilt University and the University of Phoenix. Through hard work, he has become a powerhouse in healthcare administration, understanding that real change happens at the community level.
Pontiac’s Future with McLaren Oakland
Now, Suter is on a mission to improve healthcare access in Oakland County. “Today, I have the influence to bring things to the community,” he stated. He emphasizes the importance of localized healthcare that meets the community where they are. In fact, the newly opened McLaren-Oxford campus, with its myriad of services ranging from emergency care to cancer treatment, exemplifies his vision for accessible healthcare. Situated at 385 N. Lapeer Rd., it promises to be a game-changer for residents who previously had to travel far for essential services.
Healthcare Tailored for the Community
Accessibility is at the core of Suter’s goals. He noted the challenges faced by patients who must travel long distances for care, which can prevent them from receiving timely treatment. With the McLaren-Oxford site, patients can expect quick, reliable healthcare without the long commute. “It’s about user accessibility,” he emphasized, envisioning a future where local healthcare is just a stone’s throw away.
Holistic Care and Wellness for All
But Suter isn’t stopping there. He aims to expand services further, including specialized care in fields like cardiology, orthopedics, and dermatology. He’s keen on bringing holistic care to the community, focusing on prevention and wellness to keep people out of the hospital in the first place. “Make it a healthy community,” he declared, encapsulating his mission to not just treat illnesses but promote overall health.
A Fast-Paced Visionary
Through his journey, Suter has learned the importance of speed and execution in healthcare delivery. With a sense of urgency rooted in his past, he understands that every moment matters when it comes to patient care. “The patient comes first, it cascades down to decisions,” he said, highlighting his commitment to prioritize the needs of the community in all his actions.
The Exciting Road Ahead
As Pontiac looks to the future, Suter’s leadership at McLaren Oakland inspires hope and excitement among residents. His steadfast commitment to community service, accessibility, and holistic wellness promises not just to change healthcare but to improve lives. In doing so, he carries the hopes and expectations of countless individuals who seek better care and healthier lives. Pontiac, under Suter’s guidance, is poised for a remarkable transformation in health and wellness!
