Mercy reorganization gives doctors more control

Des Moines Register, January 30, 2012

Mercy Medical Center Des Moines is reorganizing its administrative structure effective on Feb. 1 to give physicians more control, responsibility and accountability. "The current structure is very hospital-centric and less physician-centric," said Mercy chief executive David Vellinga. The new structure places seven physicians in lead roles where they will partner with non-medical administrators to develop strategy and ensure proper delivery of medical care and services at the hospital. In the past, Vellinga said, two physicians had responsibilities for the organized medical staff, but they played limited roles in strategy and development of services.