From tragedy to advocacy.

Some of the fiercest proponents of the patient-safety movement are motivated by personal tragedies-the loss of a child or husband to medical errors. These advocates are determined to speak up for what's right for patients.."A lot of healthcare is designed around those of us providing the care. How can you possibly understand what patients want if they're not in the room?" says Mark Novotny, left.

Does it compute?

With the ever-increasing focus on technology in healthcare, the question still remains if it delivers on its promises. New studies have shown mixed results, and one author notes you don't have to rely on the high-tech, costly variety. Beta blockers, aspirin and other treatments have given a low-tech, real boost to productivity, says Jonathan Skinner, left. "They explain a lot of the gains in cardiovascular disease".

Eye of the beholder. Productivity and efficiency in healthcare reform can mean different things to different groups in the industry.

Productivity is a big issue in the reform debate, but what exactly it means depends on whom you ask. The competing time needs of doctors and nurses can cause tension while wringing more efficiency out of use of patient-care areas. "You can be more productive in those rooms by adding some creativity and flexibility" to scheduling, says Patricia Tyson, left, of group-purchasing alliance VHA.