The Power of Partnerships
Meet Dora Mills:
Dora Mills, M.D. is the Chief Health Improvement Officer of MaineHealth. Previously, she was the Vice President for Clinical Affairs and Director for the Center of Health Innovation at the University ofNew England. She also served as the Medical Director of MaineCare, and the Director of Public Health for the Maine State Government. Dr. Mills received a Bachelor’s in Biology and Russian from Bowdin College, an M.D. from the University of Vermont, and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University.
Key Insights:
Dr. Mills’ experience exemplifies the power of partnerships in healthcare and public health.
• Words of Encouragement. One day in college, the head of the Biology Department told Dr. Mills she should consider medical school. It was the first time someone encouraged her to think about a medical career, and it gave her the confidence to pursue one. Today, Dr. Mills tries to provide the same encouragement as a mentor.
• Public-Private Partnerships. Maine achieved high levels of vaccination through partnerships. Companies like L.L. Bean lent employees to staff vaccine clinics.Additionally, breweries and restaurants across the state hosted clinics, offering free beer and food to those who got vaccinated.
• Women in Public Service. Dr. Mills has seen many great women leaders, including her sister, the current Governor of Maine. For women interested in running for office, there are programs to help. And if you run for office, seek out advice, butmake sure to still be who you are and use your own voice.
This episode is hosted by Joanne Conroy, M.D. She is a member of the Advisory Council for Her Story and serves as the CEO and President of Dartmouth-Hitchcock and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health.
