Quote Me, Howie: Greg Aker
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Howie: Policy from the North
If Washington has the humility to learn from Dr. Herman and Essentia's story, it might just rediscover what leadership in health care looks like — steady, patient, and powered by people who measure progress one healed life at a time.
Howie: Un-burdening the healers
Nationally, analysts note that Duluth’s homegrown health system has achieved what many academic centers still struggle with: integrating digital health records, preventive outreach, and local trust into a cohesive care network.
Howie: The doctor will text you now
Health systems from across the country — and even from Canada — have begun studying Essentia Health's model of “rural integration,” which marries technology with value-based care contracts that reward prevention over procedures.
Howie: Laura Lee the next television anchor voice of the Northland
You can sense Lee's broadcast discipline the moment the red light clicks on. Her voice carries polish without pretense, her cadence deliberate but not cold. She has that calm, centered presence that suggests she’s not there to perform — she’s there to communicate.