Exciting Changes in Florence: McLeod Health Welcomes New Chief Quality Officer
Florence, South Carolina, is buzzing with exciting news as John Byrnes, M.D., D.ABA, has been appointed as the new Chief Quality Officer and Senior Vice President of Quality and Safety for McLeod Health. This announcement is sure to have many in the community paying attention, as Byrnes brings over 25 years of experience in improving healthcare services across the country.
Meet Dr. Byrnes
Before joining McLeod Health, Dr. Byrnes was the Chief of Medical Affairs at ChenMed in Miami, Florida. His extensive background includes holding the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at the Health Division for Adventist Health, not to mention serving as the Regional Chief Medical Officer for areas including Northern California, Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii. His track record speaks volumes about his dedication to the healthcare field.
A Vision for Healthcare
Dr. Byrnes isn’t just another executive; he is a passionate advocate for transforming healthcare in the United States. “Healthcare is a constantly changing environment,” Byrnes states, emphasizing the need for taking action to enhance quality and safety for patients. He looks forward to cooperating with leaders and physicians at McLeod to foster a culture of excellence. His mission is to provide world-class clinical outcomes to all patients who walk through McLeod’s doors, showcasing his unwavering commitment to healthcare improvement.
Innovative Solutions
Throughout his career, Dr. Byrnes has developed programs that deliver innovative solutions to common challenges in healthcare. His focus has always been on improving outcomes, reducing costs, and most importantly, enhancing patient and provider satisfaction. He is also recognized nationally for his contributions to healthcare discussions and practices, evidenced by his authorship of books such as “The Safety Playbook” and “The Quality Playbook”, along with numerous articles and publications.
McLeod Health: A Community Pillar
Founded in 1906, McLeod Health has long been a pillar of the Florence community. This not-for-profit organization boasts a workforce of more than 15,000 team members and supports over 900 medical staff. With seven active hospitals and a strong commitment to community health, McLeod delivers exemplary care across its 18-county service area.
Exciting Developments Ahead
As if bringing Dr. Byrnes on board wasn’t enough, McLeod Health is also on the cusp of several expansions. Plans are underway to open a stunning $56 million, four-story hospital facility on the Carolina Forest campus, set to serve the growing population in Horry County and the Grand Strand area. Groundbreaking will begin in Spring 2024 with an anticipated completion by 2026. This will be the first new hospital established in Horry County in over a decade!
A Comprehensive Cancer Center Coming Soon
In addition, McLeod Health plans to debut its first comprehensive Cancer Center in 2025. This center will offer a range of services including medical oncology, chemotherapy, and radiation oncology, making it a crucial resource for cancer care in the region.
Conclusion
With Dr. Byrnes taking the reins in quality and safety at McLeod Health, coupled with the exciting expansion plans, the future looks bright for healthcare in Florence and beyond. The entire community can benefit from these changes designed to enhance health and well-being. It’s an exciting time to be part of this evolution, and residents can look forward to improvements that prioritize their health and safety.
