Role statement: one hospital's experience

This article is a case study of a strategic planning process used by one Edmonton teaching hospital to develop a five-year planning document or role statement. In contrast to hospital role statements that are typically composed in the organization by senior personnel, input was sought from other health care providers, affiliated organizations and community groups. The role statement has since been endorsed by the provincial government and is the primary reference document for future funding strategies. General conclusions and observations are offered regarding role statements and their development.