Articles
Finding the Right Size for Your Hospital Board
What’s the ideal size for a board of trustees?
Consider an unlikely model: “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” Goldilocks tried three bowls of porridge, chairs and beds to find which suited her. Each choice meant rejecting two that were perfect for two bears. So, too, with governance.
The unequivocal answer to “ideal size?” is, “That depends.” Large boards may be necessary for some. Small boards may be right for others. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer (see figure below).
Is It Time for a Board Checkup?
Checkups make sense. Annual physicals support personal well-being. Periodic employee performance reviews reinforce goals. Even our cars have routine maintenance schedules.
When was your board’s last checkup? If you don’t know, your board and its progress are at risk of sinking into complacency.