Kansas City Hospitals Shake Things Up: A Year of Leadership Changes
This year has been anything but quiet for the healthcare scene in Kansas City, where over a dozen executive changes have transformed the landscape of various hospitals and healthcare organizations. This doesn’t just mean new faces; it’s a thrilling game of musical chairs up top, with significant shifts in management that can impact patient care and community health.
More Changes Than Ever
If you think you’ve seen similar headlines before, you’re right—sort of. Just last year, Kansas City had only four executive changes. But in 2023, that number skyrocketed to an impressive **over a dozen**. The healthcare industry, particularly hospitals, often faces a juggling act, balancing large teams of staff, quick-paced changes in medical technology, and ever-tightening budget constraints. When new positions open up, finding the right talent is no small feat!
A Surge of New CEOs
Buckle up, because seven different hospitals rang in the new year by appointing new CEOs. Among them, HCA Midwest—the area’s largest hospital system—was particularly busy, appointing new leadership across four of its six hospitals. That’s a big deal! Not to be outdone, AdventHealth also got in on the action, naming new CEOs for its two hospitals.
The Children’s Mercy Kansas City is still on the lookout for a new CEO after the beloved Paul Kempinski retired back in May. It’s clear that the executives in these hospitals are stepping into big shoes, but they’re ready for the challenge!
Meet the New Leaders
Let’s take a closer look at some of the new heroes stepping into leadership roles:
- AdventHealth South Overland Park threw a welcome party for Dallas Purkeypile, who officially took the reins as CEO in March. In the same breath, they promoted Jimmy Bolanos to COO and Dr. Michèle Jean-Francois to chief medical officer.
- AdventHealth Shawnee Mission promoted Dr. Alan Verrill to CEO in February. He was previously at South Overland Park, so he’s already familiar with the AdventHealth family.
- Over at the under-construction AdventHealth Lenexa City Center, Sissel Jacob has crossed state lines from Kentucky to set up for an exciting opening in mid-2025!
- Centerpoint Medical Center appointed John McDonald, who had been leading the Lee’s Summit Medical Center for five years. Now he’s taking charge of the Independence hospital, which is quite a step up!
- In a heartwarming story, Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute welcomed Gene Austin as their new CEO, replacing Dr. Charles Rhoades, who had served an impressive 25 years in the role.
- Lee’s Summit Medical Center made waves by promoting Gabe Clements to CEO—a well-deserved recognition after his excellent work as COO.
- Menorah Medical Center named Janie Thompson as COO in August, bringing some local flair back home from Texas!
- Research Medical Center made headlines when they selected Kirk McCarty as their new CEO in September, making him a familiar face after he was previously leading Menorah Medical Center.
- Saint Luke’s Health System announced significant leadership changes as well, bringing in a new governance arrangement following their merger with BJC HealthCare.
- And let’s not forget the University of Kansas Medical Center, which appointed Dr. Steve Stites as executive vice chancellor in August!
The Road Ahead
It’s clear that Kansas City is buzzing with fresh ideas and leadership across its hospitals. As the new leaders settle in, everyone is excited to see how these changes will influence patient care and community health initiatives. The healthcare system is like a living organism—constantly adapting, evolving, and striving to provide the very best care possible. And with this many leadership changes, the entire city is watching closely. Who knows? The future of health care in Kansas City is looking brighter than ever!
