TRUCKEE, Calif. – Tahoe Forest Health System is launching “True North,” a comprehensive community engagement initiative aimed at gathering input from residents, patients, second homeowners, partners and staff to guide the health system’s strategic direction in the years ahead. 

“As we prepare for the future we’re asking one simple question: what does it look like when a health system is the center of health in a community?” said Michael McGarry, chair of the board of directors. “I look forward to working with our community to answer that question on behalf of the people we serve.” 

From October 2025 through June 2026, TFHS aims to engage at least 5,000 community members in discussions about healthcare priorities, access to care, and the meaning of health and wellness in the mountain region. 

“Tahoe Forest Health System was built by the people of this region—from Richard Joseph’s 1949 land donation that established our hospital district to the community’s overwhelming support for the Gene Upshaw Memorial Cancer Center,” said Anna Roth, president and CEO. “True North continues that tradition. This initiative is about listening first and building the future together.” 

Focus Areas: True North centers on three key areas that reflect current challenges and future opportunities. 

Health Within Reach – Exploring ways to improve access to care, reduce wait times, expand services closer to where people live, and address affordability. 

Peaks of Excellence – Identifying specialty services and programs that would provide significant benefits to the community while enhancing the health system’s overall capabilities. 

Transformation – Reimagining healthcare delivery through innovation, workforce development and new models of care tailored to the region’s unique needs. 

“We’re meeting people where they are, not where we expect them to come,” said Kim McCarl, chief strategy officer. “Whether someone participates in a survey, joins a listening session, or engages with us at a community event, we want to hear from them.” 

How the Community Can Participate 

TFHS will gather feedback through various channels, including online surveys, QR codes available at hospital and regional partner agency locations and community events, listening sessions, and collaborations with local organizations throughout the region. Throughout the initiative, TFHS will provide regular updates on what it is hearing and how community input is shaping future decisions. 

Learn More and Share Your Input 
Community members are invited to learn more about the True North initiative and share their perspectives through an online survey. Additional opportunities to participate will be added throughout the engagement period. To explore the focus areas, stay informed as new ways to engage are introduced, and take the survey, visit https://tfhd.com/true-north.