Brigham Health was unveiled last month as the new name for the parent organization that includes Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital and the Brigham and Women’s Physicians Organization. All three entities will retain their individual names and identities. Brigham Health replaces Brigham and Women’s Health Care (BWHC). 

Brigham Health President Betsy Nabel, MD, discussed with BWH Bulletin what this change means for us. 

Why did we change from BWHC to Brigham Health?

Nabel: Those who know the Brigham think of it as a top-tier New England hospital – a place to go for care when needed, especially complex procedures. But according to market research, many outside of New England assume we are solely a women’s hospital. And while we are certainly a leader in women’s health care, we want to be sure it’s clear that our excellence and expertise extend to so many other areas. Brigham Health reinforces that we are not just one point on a map, or even a single point of discovery.

The new name eliminates some of the confusion we have found among those outside of New England. Talking about the services of BWH, BWFH and the BWPO as simply Brigham Health will enable us to more effectively reach people who are seeking health information, referrals and care.

How does this change fit into our strategy?

Nabel: This change is a vital component of our institutional strategy. For example, one of our strategic priorities is to improve health. In addition to providing highly specialized care in the hospital and ambulatory settings, we also must engage people around the world as we promote health and wellness and concentrate on preventing disease in populations.

Another example is twofold. By building national and international lines of business, we reinforce our financial strength and advance our work in business development – two areas essential to guaranteeing we continue delivering on our mission.

Why was the name Brigham Health selected?

Nabel: Brigham Health reflects our role as a leader in maintaining and restoring health around the world, encompassing all that we do in delivering care, advancing scientific discovery and educating the next generation of health care professionals. It broadly defines everything we do today and provides a new platform for amplifying our commitment to what everybody desires: health.

For more Brigham Health information and resources – including an FAQ, downloadable logos and presentation templates – visit BWHPikeNotes.org.