Columbus, OH, January 26, 2024 – Ohio hospitals are gearing up for a year of focused leadership, with new chairs appointed to key committees guiding the state’s healthcare landscape. These appointments, announced by the Ohio Hospital Association (OHA), signal a commitment to safety, innovation, and efficient healthcare delivery across the state.
New Leadership Roles Announced for Key Hospital Committees
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New appointments will shape Ohio’s hospital initiatives in safety, innovation, billing, and behavioral health.
- Matt Akers will chair the OHA Safety Council, focusing on enhancing patient and staff safety.
- Rob Montagnese will lead the Institute of Health Innovations Board, driving advancements in healthcare practices.
- Christy Stansfield will chair the Admitting, Billing & Collections Committee, streamlining financial processes.
- Andrew Maigur, MD, will chair the Physician Advisor Committee, improving collaboration between physicians and administration.
- Dallas Erdmann, MD, will chair the Behavioral Health Committee, addressing the growing need for mental healthcare.
Matt Akers, currently the director of Physical Environment, Safety and Emergency Management at OhioHealth, has been named chair of the OHA Safety Council. Rob Montagnese, president and CEO of Licking Memorial Hospital, will serve as chair of the Institute of Health Innovations Board. These appointments reflect a dedication to proactive safety measures and innovative solutions within Ohio’s hospital systems.
Focus on Billing and Physician Collaboration
Christy Stansfield, director of hospital billing at ProMedica, will lead the Admitting, Billing & Collections Committee as chair for the 2026-27 term. This committee will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of healthcare billing and ensuring accurate financial operations. Andrew Maigur, MD, a hospitalist physician at Premier Health, has been appointed chair of the Physician Advisor Committee, with Ahmad Kilani, medical director of Cleveland Clinic Revenue Cycle Management, serving as vice chair. This pairing aims to foster stronger communication and collaboration between physicians and hospital administration.
What are the key benefits of physician advisor committees? These committees help bridge the gap between clinical expertise and administrative requirements, leading to improved patient care and more efficient resource allocation.
Behavioral Health Takes Center Stage
In addition, Dallas Erdmann, MD, of OhioHealth will serve as chair of the Behavioral Health Committee in 2026, with Jeanne Lackamp, MD, of University Hospitals as vice chair. This appointment underscores the increasing importance of addressing mental and behavioral health needs within the state. The committee will likely focus on expanding access to care and improving the quality of mental health services.
Transition of Leadership
The OHA also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing committee leaders. Dani Spring, director of Quality and Nursing Education at Wood County Hospital, concluded her term as chair of the OHA Safety Council. Heidi Gartland, chief government and community relations officer at University Hospitals, completed her service as chair of the OHA Institute for Health Innovation Board. Kris Siefring of Mercer Health concluded her term as Admitting Billing & Collections Committee chair and will transition to the role of past chair, while Kristen Shoup of Southwest General Health Center completed her service as ABC Committee past chair.
The OHA expressed gratitude for the dedication and service of these outgoing leaders, recognizing their significant contributions to Ohio’s hospital community. Further information about OHA’s committees can be found here.
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