Lauren Jones’ brother has profound hearing loss and relies on a cochlear implant. Growing up in southwest Missouri, Lauren and her family had to travel to Kansas City and St. Louis to see the medical specialists who could care for her brother. Now, she is one of six community members on Children’s Mercy with Mercy’s new patient family advisory committee (PFAC), which is working to help families who will benefit from care closer to home.

“I was pleasantly surprised to see so many parents on the PFAC,” Jones said. “While I don’t have the same type of journey as many of these families, I’m learning a lot hearing about their experience.” Jones is the clinic director of speech and audiology services at the MSU Collaborative Care Clinic, where she works with patients who transition between healthcare services at MSU and in the Springfield community.

When she learned about the PFAC, she saw it as a chance to learn more about how the patient experience could improve while adding her own experience to the conversation.

“My parents frequently had to take time off work to take my brother to see specialists in bigger cities,” Jones said. “Even as a child, I knew this was hard on my family. When I heard about the work Children’s Mercy and Mercy are doing to enhance pediatric specialty care in Springfield, I knew I wanted to be involved. If I can provide any kind of perspective or advice that helps families who find themselves in a similar situation as my family, I’ll feel like I’ve made a difference.”

When Mercy and Children’s Mercy officially teamed up in 2025 to enhance pediatric specialty care for kids across southwest Missouri, they quickly began working to form a patient family advisory committee. The search for PFAC members began in October 2025, as parents began contacting both hospital systems to express their interest in the work. Children’s Mercy with Mercy’s new PFAC had its first meeting in April of this year and welcomed six community members to the committee.

Children’s Mercy has more than 20 PFACs already in place.

“These groups ensure patients and their family members have a voice at the table,” said Debbie Schwartzkopf, chief administrative officer for Children’s Mercy with Mercy. “Their experience and perspective are vital as we design and build pediatric clinics and expand our hospital services. Our PFAC collaborates with hospital leadership to ensure the highest level of quality, safety and experience of care is provided to every patient and family. They strive to support the mission of the partnership, promote communication between staff and families, provide ongoing feedback to collaboratively problem solve for solutions that are patient-and-family-centered; and incorporate diverse perspectives representing the populations served.

PFAC members play an active role in incorporating the perspective of patients, families and community into the care experience.” PFAC members will serve two-year terms, and the goal of the committee is two-fold. First, PFAC members will help educate the community about the services Children’s Mercy with Mercy provides. Second, members will provide community input and guidance as the two health systems enhance pediatric care in Springfield. Since the committee’s creation, the group has already met with several leaders and providers who are working on the Children’s Mercy with Mercy collaboration. The group has also been tasked with creating an online resource hub for pediatric patients and their families.

“During my 30 years with Children’s Mercy, I’ve had the privilege of working with several PFACs and seeing the impact their voice and their work have on the care we provide children,” Schwartzkopf said. “Now that we’re launching our very first PFAC in Springfield, I’m so excited to see how these families will help us bring the very best care to kids in our community.”

Members of the PFAC include Stacy and Dustin Atwood, Ashlea Cardin, Stefanie Hohensee, Lauren Jones and Shannon Nevins. Mercy and Children’s Mercy officially began their collaboration to enhance pediatric care for kids across southwest Missouri in August 2025. As Children’s Mercy brings its pediatric expertise to Springfield, the joint venture will create a seamless pediatric system of care that strengthens coordination between providers, supports community clinicians and improves access—so more kids can get the specialized care they need, when they need it, close to home.

Through the collaboration, Children’s Mercy began management for a wide range of hospital based pediatric services starting in November 2025 including:

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Outpatient Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy

Along with naming key leaders within the organization, Children’s Mercy with Mercy marked a major milestone in the creation of its new Children’s Mercy with Mercy O’Reilly Pediatric Center. A celebratory beam raising event was held May 12 as community leaders, care team members, supporters and families signed the ceremonial beam before it was lifted into place— marking continued progress on a new dedicated pediatric outpatient facility designed specifically for children and families in southwest Missouri.

The O’Reilly Pediatric Center is being built on Mercy’s South campus in Springfield and will bring Mercy Primary Pediatrics and Children’s Mercy pediatric specialists together under one roof, providing a centralized location for comprehensive pediatric services. The two-story, 40,000-square-foot outpatient center reflects the shared commitment of Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield Communities to improve access, care delivery and care coordination.

Children's Mercy at Mercy Springfield Communities

Children’s Mercy has been caring for children for 129 years, and since 2012, its Wichita location has served more than 10,000 patients across the region. The new free-standing clinic reflects an ongoing commitment to delivering compassionate, family-centered care where and when it’s needed. 

Located at North Greenwich Road and East 29th Street N, the new clinic represents a $18.3 million investment and is designed to optimize collaboration among care teams, enhance the patient experience and expand access to world-class pediatric care.  luding cardiology, endocrinology and nephrology. By creating additional capacity for both in-person care and telemedicine, the new location will make it easier for families to access coordinated pediatric specialty services in one place.

“For more than a decade, Children’s Mercy has been honored to walk alongside Wichita families, providing expert pediatric specialty care with compassion, coordination and hope close to home,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations. “Opening this new clinic is more than a milestone — it is a reflection of our belief that every child deserves access to exceptional care, and every family deserves the support to help their child thrive.” 

With 30 exam rooms, on-site lab and imaging and 16 providers across 11 specialties, the clinic is expected to deliver more than 16,000 visits annually, expanding access to care for more children. 

The Wichita clinic builds on years of service in the community, where Children’s Mercy has offered specialty care including cardiology, endocrinology and nephrology. By creating additional capacity for both in-person care and telemedicine, the new location will make it easier for families to access coordinated pediatric specialty services in one place.

Children’s Mercy today announced that Kevin Barth has been named Chair of its Board of Directors and Mark Jorgenson has been named Vice Chair. 

Barth, the Chairman & CEO of the Kansas City Region for Commerce Bank, and Executive Vice President of Commerce Bancshares, Inc., has a long history of leadership in the Kansas City business and civic community. For the past two years, he served as the Vice Chair on the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors.

Jorgenson joined the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors last year. A retired financial services executive and former Executive Vice President and Head of Community Banking for U.S. Bank, he remains active in the Kansas City business and civic community, serving on several boards including President of the KC2026 Board of Directors, The Civic Council of Greater Kansas City, Hall Family Foundation, Hunt Midwest Enterprises and the Police Foundation Board of Kansas City.

Barth succeeds Diane Gallagher, Senior Vice President, Civic & Community Initiatives, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, who joined the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors in 2021 and became Board Chair in 2024. Although her Chair term is up, she will continue to serve as a member of the board. 

“Kevin, Mark and Diane lead with both heart and purpose, and their dedication to children and families has made a lasting difference across our community,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy. “As we enter an exciting new chapter marked by significant growth, their ongoing service will be critical in shaping the future of Children’s Mercy. Together, they will help guide our vision to bring exceptional pediatric care and cures to more kids and families.” 

“It is a true honor to serve as Chair of the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors and to support an organization that has touched the lives of so many across our region and beyond,” said Barth. “I have long admired the compassion, expertise and dedication of the Children’s Mercy team, and I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members and the organization’s leadership to help carry this important work forward.” 

“Serving as Board Chair has been one of the great privileges of my life, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of an organization that means so much to children and families, including mine,” said Gallagher. “Children’s Mercy is a place filled with extraordinary people doing extraordinary work, and I look forward to continuing to serve in this next chapter.” 

Children’s Mercy also welcomes Terry Bassham to its Board of Directors. Bassham brings decades of business, legal and financial leadership experience to the position. He retired in 2021 after a 30-year career in the public utility industry, including serving as CEO, COO and CFO of Evergy and its predecessor, Kansas City Power & Light. During his tenure, he helped lead major growth milestones, including the acquisition of Aquila and the merger of Great Plains Energy and Westar, which significantly expanded the company’s regional footprint. He also brings a strong legal and finance background that includes previous leadership roles as CFO and general counsel at El Paso Electric and a Juris Doctorate from St. Mary’s University. 

“I’m honored to join the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors and support an organization that means so much to families across our region,” said Bassham. “Children’s Mercy has earned the trust of this community through its exceptional care, compassion and commitment to children, and I look forward to contributing to that work with the board and leadership team.” 

He will also serve as the inaugural holder of the Paul and Linda DeBruce Endowed Chair in Cancer Immunotherapy, established through the generosity of the DeBruces, longtime supporters of Children’s Mercy. 

The Molecular Oncology & Cellular Therapeutics division will focus on advancing new treatment options for children with cancer, while also exploring emerging therapies that could benefit children with autoimmune diseases and complications related to transplants. The goal is simple but powerful: move promising research more quickly from the laboratory to the bedside, where it can make a meaningful difference for children and families. 

In this new role, Dr. Li will help expand Children’s Mercy’s ability to offer innovative cellular and immunotherapy treatments and strengthen its partnership with the University of Kansas Cancer Center. This collaboration supports faster progress in pediatric research and helps ensure children have access to leading-edge therapies close to home.   

“Breakthroughs in cancer treatment are advancing rapidly, particularly in immunotherapy and cellular therapeutics,” said Steve Leeder, Ph.D., PharmD, Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer, Children’s Mercy. “Dr. Li’s leadership will help ensure children benefit from these innovations.”  

Dr. Li is an internationally recognized scientist with deep expertise in cancer biology, cell-based treatment development and the use of artificial intelligence to accelerate drug discovery. He most recently served as a professor and Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas Scholar at Baylor College of Medicine, where he also led Molecular Epidemiology. 

His research brings together molecular, cellular and computational science, including artificial intelligence, to identify new treatment targets and develop biologic therapies for cancer and other serious diseases. Dr. Li currently leads one of a small number of National Cancer Institute‑funded U54 Cancer Prevention‑Interception Centers focused on advancing precision medicines. 

Supported by multiple National Institutes of Health grants, Dr. Li has served as principal investigator on research exploring PD‑L1 biology, p53‑directed therapies and computational drug development. His career includes leadership roles at Baylor College of Medicine, Cleveland Clinic and the University of Louisville, as well as postdoctoral training at Yale University with Nobel laureate Dr. Sidney Altman. He has earned national and international recognition for his work, including election as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. 

“Children’s Mercy offers world-class clinical care and a strong research foundation,” Li said. “I look forward to leveraging these strengths to advance innovative therapies and bring new hope to children and families facing cancer.”  

For years, faculty and clinicians at both institutions have worked together on projects that bridge discovery and patient care. The idea for a more formalized agreement began when a student sought to collaborate on a Children’s Mercy research project. The student worked with Gerald Wyckoff, Ph.D. chair of pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences and a UM System Curators’ Distinguished Professor. They got the approval, but found the process proved slow and complex.

That experience prompted conversations about creating a more efficient system. Wyckoff worked closely with two individuals from the Children’s Mercy Research Institute, Mark Hoffman, Ph.D., chief research information officer and Laura Ramsey, Ph.D., section chief of individualized therapeutics, clinical pharmacology, toxicology and therapeutic innovation. Together, they built a new framework designed to build on existing collaboration in a more intentional, structured way, ensuring that opportunities are easier to access and scale.

“Science is a team sport,” Wyckoff said. “This is a really effective team because we’ve got people who are motivated on both ends of the spectrum.”

Under the new agreement, the need for individual, project-by-project administrative approvals has been removed, eliminating a key barrier that often slowed the start of collaborative work.

That speed matters when children’s lives and wellbeing are on the line.

“Together, we are strengthening the pipeline of researchers prepared to tackle the complex challenges affecting pediatric patients,” Ramsey said.

Now, doctoral students can more readily engage with Children’s Mercy research teams, gaining hands-on experience in translational science while contributing to work that directly impacts children’s health.

Researchers at Children’s Mercy now have faster access to emerging talent not only in the natural sciences, but in a broad range of disciplines that can provide valuable skills and knowledge.

“UMKC and Children’s Mercy have a long history of collaboration,” Hoffman said. “This will streamline the process for UMKC Ph.D. students to perform their graduate work at Children’s Mercy. The inclusion of the UMKC School of Science and Engineering opens the door for deeper collaboration in biomedical engineering, AI and other technical topics.”

Christine Getz, Ph.D., dean of the UMKC School of Graduate Studies said this kind of immersive research experience is invaluable for students.

“Access to meaningful, real-world research opportunities is essential to preparing the next generation of scientists,” Getz said. “Being part of translational research allows our Ph.D. students to advance their own education while making a tangible impact on human health worldwide.”

The agreement also establishes regular joint reviews between UMKC and Children’s Mercy, allowing leaders and researchers to proactively identify emerging areas for collaboration rather than waiting for opportunities to arise organically.

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to academic excellence and innovation, positioning students at the center of a vibrant research ecosystem.

Sumeet Dua, Ph.D., UMKC vice chancellor for research and innovation, highlighted the broader significance of the collaboration.

“True innovation happens through strong collaboration,” Dua said. “By aligning the strengths of UMKC and Children’s Mercy, we are putting our students at the forefront of discovery and empowering them to fast-track research from the lab directly to the families who need it most.”

Children’s Mercy will collaborate with Basepath Health, an AI-native operating platform for advanced therapies, combining intelligent workflows and longitudinal patient navigation to establish a next-generation, scalable model for delivering these life-changing treatments across multiple disease states and care settings. With demand rising and more therapies expected in the years ahead, the expansion will increase Children’s Mercy’s capacity and accelerate the pace at which patients can receive these highly specialized treatments—with a goal of outpacing many providers across the Midwest and the nation.  

“Children’s Mercy has long been at the forefront of pediatric care, and cell and gene therapies represent the next frontier in what’s possible for kids facing the most complex conditions,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy. “By expanding these highly specialized services, we’re helping families access cutting-edge technology and comprehensive support—right here, close to home. This is how we continue to lead and deliver on our promise to bring the very best care to every child, when it matters most.” 

Cell and gene therapies are transforming care for children and young adults with rare genetic disorders, aggressive cancers and a growing range of complex diseases. As use of these therapies expand across specialties, from hematology and oncology to neuromuscular and beyond, their potential to address the root cause of disease continues to broaden. While conventional medicine can help manage chronic symptoms, newer options—such as in vivo and ex vivo gene therapies and CAR-T cell therapy—aim to halt or even reverse disease progression, often with a single treatment.  

“Cell and gene therapies are opening a new era of hope for children, adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease—treating the root cause, not just the symptoms,” said Shabnam Arsiwala, MD, FAAP, Director of Children’s Mercy’s Sickle Cell Disease Program. “Through our collaboration with Basepath Health, we’re focused on helping more families access these therapies—while surrounding every patient with the comprehensive, family-centered support that’s at the heart of our program.” 

Even as new cures arrive rapidly, access remains constrained. Families can face long waits because only a limited number of hospitals can provide these therapies, and the operational and financial requirements are significant. The expanded program is designed to reduce barriers and help more children receive timely treatment in a pediatric setting built for them.  

Children’s Mercy will lead clinical care delivery, with Basepath Health enabling a next-generation operating model that streamlines complex, time-sensitive care pathways across pre-treatment, treatment and post-treatment phases—supporting patient identification and education, treatment navigation, and long-term outcomes tracking and reporting required for federally approved therapies. This collaboration is designed to reduce administrative and operational burden on clinical teams, allowing physicians and caregivers to focus on delivering care while maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence and patient-centered care. 

“As more cell and gene therapies come to market, the challenge is how to translate and integrate them into real-world delivery,” said Akshara Reddy, co-founder and CEO of Basepath Health. “Delivering these therapies requires a fundamentally different level of infrastructure, coordination and operational alignment. Basepath enables health systems to do exactly that.” 

Children’s Mercy began offering cell and gene therapy more than 10 years ago. In the past year, the health system delivered these personalized therapies to a limited number of patients. Through this collaboration, Children’s Mercy aims to treat five times as many patients in the next four years. 

Children’s Mercy currently offers a broad portfolio of FDA-approved cell and gene therapies. Selected examples include Zolgensma^®, Itvisma^®, Elevidys^®, Casgevy^® and Kymriah^®.  The program is designed to scale alongside a rapidly evolving pipeline, enabling access to additional therapies as they emerge. 

“It’s incredibly exciting to see this vision come to life. Every milestone brings us closer to a space designed entirely around kids and families,” said Debbie Schwartzkopf, DNP, RN, CPHQ, Chief Administrative Officer, Children’s Mercy with Mercy. “By joining forces with Mercy Springfield Communities, we’re expanding access to trusted pediatric expertise in the region.”  

The O’Reilly Pediatric Center is being built on Mercy’s South campus in Springfield and will bring Mercy Primary Pediatrics and Children’s Mercy pediatric specialists together under one roof, providing a centralized location for comprehensive pediatric services. The two-story, 40,000-square-foot outpatient center reflects the shared commitment of Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield Communities to improve access, care delivery and care coordination. 

“Partnering with Children’s Mercy, one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals, means we can bring even more pediatric expertise to the children and families we serve,” said John Myers, President of Mercy Springfield Communities. “Together, we’re connecting care teams and coordinating services so families in Springfield and across the region can access exceptional pediatric care closer to home.”  

The construction milestone also reflects strong community support behind the project, including a lead gift from the O’Reilly family to help bring the center to life.  

“When we heard about Mercy’s and Children’s Mercy’s efforts to enhance pediatric care for kids, we knew we wanted to be involved and help create a generational change for children in our community,” said Larry O’Reilly. “This clinic will make it easier for kids to access a range of specialists, and its design and functionality will be built around their needs. We hope every family who walks through these doors feels supported, seen and surrounded by people who are here for their child.” 

Children’s Mercy is already providing management for a wide range of hospital-based pediatric services in Springfield, including pediatric inpatient care, PICU, NICU, pediatric surgery, pediatric emergency care and additional pediatric therapies and support services.  

Pediatric specialty outpatient services will include: 

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedics
• Otolaryngology
• Pulmonology
• Surgery 

The O’Reilly Pediatric Center will be located at 6375 S. Innovation Avenue in Springfield. Construction is scheduled to be completed later this year with an anticipated opening in December 2026. 

One of just 28 freestanding pediatric hospitals in the U.S., Children’s Mercy takes care of children across a multi-state region and nationwide, providing the highest level of pediatric expertise, rapid rare-disease diagnosis and highly specialized treatment. High-acuity areas such as the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Emergency Department consistently serve some of the region’s most medically complex patients. Third party assessments by Deloitte and HDR warn that, within five years, existing capacity will meet only 67% of projected total bed needs and 40% of projected NICU demand.

“Demand is already pressing our capacity, so this is about readiness and responsibility. When a child in our community needs an ICU bed, and minutes matter, we must have the space and the very best teams ready to act,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “This investment protects our ability to say ‘yes’ to the next child who needs us, while strengthening the expertise, compassion, and advanced care families count on. It’s the same obligation we’ve carried for 129 years, and we’re building for what comes next.”

The new tower will expand overall total capacity by 25-30% and integrate next‑generation technology with more flexible spaces. Early design plans include:

• A new home for the PICU and NICU, and expansion of the ED, that will increase patient capacity and support the most complex pediatric needs.
• A state-of-the-art surgical center with future-ready technology, including robotics.
• Improved clinical flow and adjacency to help care teams collaborate more seamlessly.
• More natural light, green space and thoughtfully designed areas that enhance patient and family comfort and healing.
• Spaces intentionally designed to translate bold science and research into real-world treatments and cures.
• A new lobby with dedicated spaces designed to support patients, families and staff.

Children’s Mercy was founded by two trailblazing sisters who believed all children deserved the very best medical care—not someday, but now. Today, leaders across Children’s Mercy thanked the Board of Directors for continuing to back that promise by investing with urgency.

“This moment reflects real momentum and a clear choice to honor our legacy by building what kids need next,” said Dr. Quiroga. “It’s powered by our people, backed by our Board and made possible by a community that believes children deserve nationally recognized care, built for families. This isn’t just Children’s Mercy growing; it’s Kansas City leading for kids today, and for the future.”

Diane Gallagher, Chair of the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors, added children guide every decision. “Everything we do begins and ends with kids—from expanding care closer to home across our region, to confronting the pediatric mental health crisis head on, to building a world-class research enterprise that advances gene therapy, theranostics and rapid diagnosis. This new tower is being built because of the urgent need we have for more pediatric beds in the region and for our care teams to push what’s possible in pediatric medicine, which is made possible by a community that believes deeply in investing in kids.”

The estimated cost of the project is more than $1B, which will be supported by private-public investments built on community philanthropy and long-standing collaboration.

Enabling work is expected to begin this fall, with a goal of project completion in 2031.

The new location will be open to patients starting Monday, March 16. A second location is planned to open in Shawnee later this year. 

Designed for families who need timely medical care for common illnesses and minor injuries, this location offers walk‑in and online scheduling options with evening and weekend hours, times when other care options are not always available. The clinic is staffed by Children’s Mercy pediatric health care professionals who specialize in caring for children and teens. 

Express Care is designed for quick treatment of minor illnesses, while our Urgent Care locations provide a higher level of care for more complex—but still non‑emergency—needs. 

The Orthopedic Injury Clinic will be staffed by orthopedic specialists who can treat broken bones, strains, sprains and other orthopedic injuries. This location will also support follow-up appointments with Orthopedic and Sports Medicine providers, ensuring continuity of care for patients.  

“Families today need care that fits into their busy lives without compromising quality,” said Allison Gardner, DNP, RN, NE-BC, CPN, Vice President and Associate Chief Nursing Officer for Ambulatory Practice Ops at Children’s Mercy. “This new location allows us to meet families where they are, providing the same expert pediatric care Children’s Mercy is known for in a setting that’s convenient, accessible and focused on kids.” 

Express Care will provide treatment for conditions including: 

• Cold and flu symptoms
• Evaluation for RSV, COVID and Mono
• Ear infections
• Sore throats
• Minor stomach illness
• Minor cuts and burns
• Other non‑emergency concerns 

Orthopedic Injury Clinic will provide treatment for:  

• Broken bones (bone hasn’t broken skin)
• Strains
• Sprains
• Other orthopedic injuries 

Children’s Mercy on Ash Ave.: 

• Opening date: March 16, 2026
• Location: 9713 N. Ash Ave., Kansas City, MO 64157
• Phone: 816-983-6150
• Hours: Sunday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Appointments: Walk‑in and online scheduling available 

For more information about Children’s Mercy on Ash Ave., visit ChildrensMercy.org. 

Turns out that most babies are immune because of germ-fighting antibodies they receive from their moms.

The study, published March 11 in the prestigious journal Nature, dove into new depths to explore why only some babies develop severe infection to common bacteria. E. coli is a common bacteria that lives in the intestines of nearly all people and is a leading cause of severe infection in newborn babies. The research revealed that the babies that became most severely ill from E. coli infections also had markedly lower levels of germ-fighting antibodies transferred from their mothers.

“This helps explain a long-standing question: if most babies are exposed to germs soon after birth, why don’t even more develop severe infection?” says senior author Sing Sing Way, MD, PhD, an expert on how the immune system changes in expecting mothers and babies in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Cincinnati Children’s. “Our findings provide a key missing piece to this puzzle — the antibodies stimulated by the presence of these common bacteria in our intestines protect us against infection. In pregnancy, the natural transfer of these germ-fighting antibodies from mothers to babies in the womb protect the vast majority against infection. In the rare situation when these antibodies are low in mothers or inefficiently transferred, babies are at much higher risk for infection.” 

Exploring why most babies avoid infection

Scientists have long known that newborns are naturally more vulnerable to infection, in large part because their immune systems have not had time to fully mature.

Pediatricians also have known that E. coli is among the most common causes of infection that babies face. Interestingly however, despite almost all babies being exposed to E. coli shortly after birth, severe infection occurs only in about 1 in every 1,000 live births. This discordance prompted the research team to investigate why numbers of babies with severe illnesses weren’t even higher.

Centers team up to study real-world samples

The research involved a collaboration among investigators at Cincinnati Children’s, the University of Queensland in Australia, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Children’s Mercy Kansas City and the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Medicine.

To conduct the study, researchers retrieved dried blood samples collected for routine newborn screening from 100 babies that eventually developed E. coli infection. They compared the antibody levels found in those samples to hundreds of other infants that did not develop infection.

The analysis revealed that antibodies targeting E. coli were consistently reduced in infected babies. Since E. coli can show a lot of variability, a panel of strains isolated from infected babies were used to evaluate the levels of these germ-fighting antibodies.

Mouse studies suggest how to improve protection

Mice used in research are often purposefully raised without any exposure to potential germs including E. coli, and therefore lack these germ-fighting antibodies. Using such mice, the research team found that introducing a probiotic strain of E. coli, called Nissle 1917, to mice before pregnancy stimulates production of protective antibodies that efficiently protect newborn mice against infection. This probiotic is widely available for human use in Europe, Asia and Australia under the trade name Mutaflor.

“Understanding protection takes both types of evidence – what we can evaluate from specimens in human babies that naturally develop infection, and what we can test by experimentally causing infection,” says co-author Mark Schembri, BSc, PhD, from the Institute for Molecular Bioscience at The University of Queensland in Australia. “By strategically combining real-world human newborn screening samples with carefully designed infection models, we can start to pinpoint which antibody targets matter most and how broad protection might be achieved.”

Co-author Susana Chavez-Bueno, MD, of Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, adds: “Neonatal sepsis can escalate quickly, and doctors need better ways to identify which infants are at highest risk. These findings suggest a path toward earlier risk recognition and prevention strategies built around restoring the missing protective maternal antibodies.”

Next Steps

Looking forward, the co-authors say they plan to develop a screening test to identify newborns at highest risk of severe E. coli infection, and eventually a safe-for-mothers probiotic that could strengthen their own immunity as well as immunity transferred to their babies.

“Our commitment to research is rooted in one goal—improving lives,” said Steven Leeder, PharmD, PhD, Senior Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer, Children’s Mercy Research Institute and co-inventor of the therapeutic. “This agreement accelerates innovation from the lab to the bedside, turning discovery into care. It’s more than a licensing deal; it’s a testament to what’s possible when innovation and compassion come together.”

Dystonia affects up to one million people in the U.S., causing painful, involuntary muscle contractions that severely impact quality of life. No existing treatments address the root cause of the disease, and the current standard of care is often ineffective and carries a significant risk of side effects.

VIM0423 is designed to selectively target muscarinic cholinergic receptors in the brain. Targeting these receptors is a proven mechanism in movement disorders, but current approaches are limited by central and peripheral tolerability issues. VIM0423 has been designed to maximize both efficacy and tolerability to deliver effective therapy for all dystonia patients.

“This research represents a breakthrough in how we approach movement disorders,” said Rose Gelineau-Morel, MD, Division of Neurology, who leads the research team at Children’s Mercy driving this discovery. “By developing therapeutics for these movement disorders, we have the potential to transform the standard of care—improving treatment efficacy and reducing side effects for patients who need better options.”

VIM0423 has been granted Fast Track designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of isolated dystonia and is currently being evaluated in a Phase 2 clinical trial.

The license agreement highlights the rapid evolution of Children’s Mercy’s technology transfer program, which has grown from concept to impact in just a few short years.

“Building on a strong foundation, this milestone reflects our commitment to turning ideas into impact and creating solutions that bring hope to patients and families everywhere,” said Aswini Betha, PhD, CLP, Senior Director of Technology Transfer and Commercialization, Children’s Mercy. “Today, we are proud to share a success story that demonstrates the power of innovation and partnership.”

Vima Therapeutics has an exclusive license from Children’s Mercy to develop and commercialize VIM0423 worldwide, while Children’s Mercy continues to champion discoveries that make a difference for families in Kansas City and beyond.

“This collaboration reflects how we turn bold ideas into real solutions­ accelerating the journey from discovery to care, proving that when science and compassion unite, the future of medicine changes for the better,” said Rob Steele, MD, Senior Vice President, Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, Children’s Mercy. “This is one more example of how we’re leading the way in transforming health care for families everywhere.”

Establishing the safety and efficacy of the product in adults is an important first step for subsequent investigations in children. Research exploring use in pediatric dystonia has received funding from Children’s Mercy Research Partners, an innovative group of donors that come together to hear from select researchers and collectively award funding to advance breakthrough pediatric innovation. In the first five years of the program, Mercy Research Partners contributed more than $2.29 million to support 19 research projects and nine patent applications at Children’s Mercy.

For more information about VIM0423 in dystonia, visit the Stride Dystonia website or clinicaltrials.gov (NCT07304089).

The five-year, ambitious plan, to address the unprecedented pediatric mental health crisis was announced in the summer of 2023. Since then, Children’s Mercy has launched nearly 14 new initiatives that reach kids earlier, create clearer paths to care and provide access to services that didn’t exist just a few years ago.

“Today’s milestone shows what’s possible when a community stands together for its kids. No child should ever have to wait for mental health support, and Illuminate is our commitment to changing that journey—making sure every child is seen early, supported fully and cared for at every step,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “The need keeps growing, and so will we. Our promise is simple: put children and families at the center of everything we do.”

More than 5,000 donors have fueled Illuminate, and on Saturday, Feb. 28, the annual Red Hot Night gala pushed the campaign past its $150 million goal with a record-breaking $5.5 million-plus raised at the event.

This is the third year in a row the event rallied around the mental health initiative—sharing powerful stories of families impacted and celebrating the lifesaving impact this work is already making.

“Our community didn’t just give. They showed up with heart, urgency and a belief in what’s possible,” said Jenea Oliver, PhD, Senior Vice President, Communications, Marketing and Philanthropy, Children’s Mercy. “Each gift reflects a personal commitment to building a future where mental health care is accessible, integrated and filled with hope. Thank you for standing with us. I’m humbled by what we’ve accomplished together and inspired by what comes next for the children and families we serve.”

To learn more about the Illuminate projects visit childrensmercy.org/illuminate.

This partnership builds on the strong foundation the Big 12 and Children’s Mercy have developed through years of collaboration in Kansas City. By formalizing the Conference’s ongoing engagement with the Children’s Mercy health care system, it deepens a shared commitment to supporting local families and strengthening the Kansas City community.

“The Big 12’s passion for the game mirrors our passion for kids. Both of our organizations are accelerating innovation not for points on a scoreboard, but for purpose—focused on helping young people thrive today and reach their full promise tomorrow,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy. “Together, we’re investing in potential, demonstrating what’s possible when future generations are at the center of everything you do.”

As part of the partnership, Children’s Mercy will join the Big 12 for various events in Kansas City during the 2026 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, including the Kid Captains program, in which selected patients will receive on-court recognition during Big 12 Basketball Tournament games. 

“From a community impact perspective, we’ve always enjoyed the various opportunities to engage with Children’s Mercy families and staff over the years, and now we’re thrilled to grow that impact via the official start of this amazing partnership,” said Jenn Hunter, Big 12 Chief Impact Officer. “Every year we’ve witnessed Kansas City enthusiastically embrace the Big 12 and make us feel at home, so we are excited to have the chance to work with an innovative and influential partner like Children’s Mercy to develop even more creative and meaningful ways to impact the greater Kansas City community.”

To celebrate the partnership, KCTV5 will light its tower on March 3. Maclee Refenes and Bode Hogue, the Kid Commissioners from the 2025 Big 12 Basketball Media Days, will participate in the lighting of the tower.

See the news via the Big 12 Conference

Theranostics is a precision medicine approach to care that uses the same targeting system to both find disease in the body and treat it using radiopharmaceuticals. By delivering radiation directly to diseased cells, it treats disease more precisely, minimizes damage to healthy tissue, and results in fewer side effects.

This unique public-private collaboration will allow all four organizations to bring both theranostics research and treatments to adults and children in Kansas City and beyond.

“Theranostics is the next forefront of precision medical care and research,” said Bob Page, president and CEO of The University of Kansas Health System.  “This collaboration will advance both discovery and treatment, while driving investment in the Kansas City region as a destination for healthcare and research.”   

While theranostics is currently used almost exclusively in adult care, Children’s Mercy is among the first pediatric health systems to invest early, ensuring children are not left behind as this promising field rapidly advances.

“At Children’s Mercy, we believe the future of pediatric care is built through bold collaborations and a shared commitment to what’s possible,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO. “By joining forces with The University of Kansas Health System, the University of Kansas Medical Center, and BAMF Health, we are taking a decisive step toward redefining how children access the most advanced care. This collaboration reflects our responsibility to lead—to accelerate innovation, translate discovery into action, and ensure every child can benefit from breakthrough therapies the moment they are ready to change lives.”

“Theranostics is redefining what’s possible in the fight against devastating diseases," said BAMF Health Founder and CEO Anthony Chang, PhD. "BAMF Health is leading the way in bringing this advanced technology to every single patient who needs it around the globe. This meaningful collaboration advances our mission to give patients more time, more hope, and more meaningful moments with their loved ones.”

Together, these organizations will establish a vertically integrated theranostics approach, which allows radiopharmaceutical production, molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical therapy, and radioligand clinical trials to all happen in the same location.

“Theranostics is the next generation of collaboration between The University of Kansas Health System, the University of Kansas Medical Center and Children’s Mercy,” said Tammy Peterman, president of the Kansas City Division for The University of Kansas Health System. “Working with BAMF Health, we will combine the expertise and vision of premier public and private institutions to become the leaders in one of the most promising new treatments in medicine. Most importantly, this collaboration will offer patients and their families leading edge diagnostic and treatment technology.”

“This is innovation with intention—the kind of bold, collaborative work that moves health care forward,” said Robert Steele, MD, MBA, Senior Vice President, Chief Strategy and Innovations Officer, Children’s Mercy. “Few pediatric institutions are stepping in this early, but that’s exactly why it matters. We’re not waiting for the future to arrive; we’re creating momentum now so kids can benefit the moment science allows.”

“Through collaboration with our public and private partners, we have the opportunity to quickly deliver unique radiopharmaceutical clinical trials to study participants based on cutting-edge science and drug development efforts taking place onsite at KU Medical Center,” said Steve Stites, MD, executive vice chancellor of KU Medical Center and chief health sciences officer for KU.  “This type of integrated advancement can make a real difference in how patients are treated and serves as an example of how public-private collaborations can work.”

"BAMF Health's first-in-world platform fully integrates a commercial production radiopharmacy, molecular imaging, radioligand therapy, and clinical research into a single facility," said BAMF Health VP of Partnerships Laurie Placinski. "By deploying our proven platform alongside institutions like The University of Kansas Health System, the University of Kansas Medical Center and Children’s Mercy across the country, we're accelerating radiopharmaceutical research, improving patient access, and enabling the future of medicine today."

Today, The University of Kansas Cancer Center offers theranostic treatments for certain types of metastatic prostate cancer and neuroendocrine cancer.  This new collaboration will:

• Expand access for pediatric and adult patients, bringing them the most cutting-edge clinical trials, therapies and diagnostics across multiple diseases.
• Enhance collaboration and research among each entity to advance the next phases of treatments and therapies in precision medicine.
• Bring patients from across the region and beyond to Kansas City.

Watch the announcement here: https://youtu.be/rPrvcSUi06s

Children’s Mercy announced this week it has named John Burson, MD, as the medical director for the Children’s Mercy with Mercy partnership—further strengthening its commitment to bringing specialized pediatric expertise closer to families in Springfield and communities across southwest Missouri.  

“Dr. Burson has served the Springfield region as a lead pediatrician for Mercy for more than 25 years,” said Debbie Schwartzkopf, interim chief administrative officer of Children’s Mercy with Mercy. “His decades of work with patients and families, community health organizations and Mercy colleagues have shaped his perspective on the needs and strengths facing pediatric health care in the region. I am excited to welcome him to our team.” 

As he steps into this new leadership role, Dr. Burson will continue to care for his current patients. 

“I have been a member of the Springfield medical community with Mercy since I completed my training,” said Dr. Burson. “I am first and foremost a general pediatrician and I look forward to bringing that perspective as I work closely with leaders from both Children’s Mercy and Mercy to continue advancing a pediatric system designed around the needs of children and families.” 

For more than a decade, Dr. Burson has helped guide the growth of Mercy’s women’s and children’s services, and his leadership has contributed to the development of numerous pediatric programs. 

Dr. Burson also brings extensive statewide and academic experience. He has served on the March of Dimes Board of Directors at regional and state levels, supported the Missouri Immunization Coalition and taught future pediatric providers through faculty and preceptor roles with Missouri State University, the University of Missouri School of Medicine, and multiple medical and advanced practice training programs. 

The Children’s Mercy with Mercy joint venture was officially launched on Nov. 1, 2025.  

In mid-November, Children’s Mercy announced plans to build a new, dedicated pediatric outpatient facility in Springfield on the Mercy South campus. Construction is now underway, with an anticipated opening date in Dec. 2026.  

Children’s Mercy announced today the hiring of a new leader whose role underscores its commitment to expanding access to specialized pediatric care for families in Springfield and surrounding communities. Children’s Mercy has named Jennifer Murray, senior director for the Children’s Mercy with Mercy partnership, effective today. 

In her new position, Murray will provide operational leadership to advance the shared vision of Children’s Mercy with Mercy. Her focus will be on strengthening pediatric services, supporting caregivers and ensuring families receive specialized care close to home. Murray will report directly to Debbie Schwartzkopf, interim chief administrative officer of Children’s Mercy with Mercy. 

“I am thrilled to welcome Jennifer to our team as we continue expanding and advancing the future of children’s health care,” said Schwartzkopf. “We are embracing a bold vision: to distinctively transform children’s health and health care by improving access, care delivery, care coordination and overall value for children and families.” 

Before moving into her new role as senior director for Children’s Mercy with Mercy, Murray was part of the Mercy Springfield team for several years. Most recently, she served as the director of nursing for women’s and children’s services at Mercy Springfield Hospital. 

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jennifer Murray for more than 10 years and have seen her leadership skills on display countless times,” said John Burson, regional service line chair for pediatrics at Mercy Springfield Communities. “Jennifer is a tireless advocate for kids in our community, and her years as a leader at Mercy help her understand what our families and patients need as we enhance pediatric care alongside Children’s Mercy.” 

Murray brings nearly three decades of neonatal nursing experience and a deep passion for caring for children and families. Over the past 18+ years in leadership, she has guided teams across women’s, children’s, emergency and behavioral health services – always with a focus on quality, safety, collaboration and growth. 

“The Children’s Mercy with Mercy partnership represents an extraordinary opportunity to bring together clinical excellence, innovation and a shared commitment to children,” Murray said. “I am honored to step into this role and excited to work alongside dedicated teams to strengthen pediatric care delivery, support our caregivers and ensure families receive the right care, at the right time, close to home.” 

Murray is known as a collaborative, steady leader who values relationships, teamwork and mission driven care. Her commitment to children and families extends beyond the hospital walls, as she is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at the University of Missouri Sinclaire School of Nursing and is actively involved in community and philanthropic efforts focused on serving and improving outcomes for children. 

The Children’s Mercy with Mercy joint venture was officially launched on Nov. 1, 2025.  

Children’s Mercy is now providing management for a wide range of hospital-based pediatric services for Mercy in Springfield, including:  

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Outpatient Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy  

In mid-November, Children’s Mercy announced plans to build a new, dedicated pediatric outpatient facility in Springfield on the Mercy South campus. Construction is now underway, with an anticipated opening date in Dec. 2026. 

The app was born from the bedside reality that nurses spend 30% of each shift on tasks that do not require a clinical license—getting the patient water, adjusting pillows or removing trash. These interruptions add cognitive load, erode job satisfaction and contribute to burnout at a time when the national nursing shortage is projected to reach 63,000 nurses by 2030.

Helen changes that. With just a few taps, nurses can submit requests through the app, which are routed to a concierge team to assist with tasks. From delivering supplies and preparing rooms for admission or discharge to making simple adjustments like opening curtains or turning on lights, Helen ensures every detail is handled without pulling nurses away from critical care.

“Helen isn’t just technology—it’s a reimagination of care delivery,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “By removing friction and shifting non-clinical tasks away from nurses, we give them back the most precious resource: time. Time to think critically. Time to connect deeply with patients and families. This is how we create joy in practice and set a new standard for the future of pediatric care.”

Dr. Quiroga recently shared his perspective in a NEJM Catalyst article titled, “Why Clinicians Hold the Key to Fixing Health Care’s Complexity Problem,” underscoring the critical role of clinician-led innovation in simplifying complexity and improving care delivery. That same philosophy guided his collaboration with the Helen team to develop the app—a concept he first introduced at a previous institution.

“Helen is not a set of apps routing requests from one team to another. It is a sophisticated, mobile-first digital operating system purpose-built for the non-clinical work that has long lived in healthcare’s blind spots,” said Jeff Bennett, CEO, Helen. “Extensive real-world use has demonstrated that Helen’s technology enables ancillary service teams to operate at three to four times the efficiency of their analog peers, fully integrates those teams into the care model, and removes non-clinical burden from nurses entirely. The result is measurable clinical and financial impact, driven by a new level of intelligence, accountability, and purpose-built teams designed for the realities of modern healthcare.”

• Helen was piloted across two inpatient units (52 beds) at Children’s Mercy and the results from the first 60-days speak volumes.
• 75,000 minutes returned to nursing teams.
• 14,000+ tasks completed.
• ~1 hour back per nurse per shift.
• 1.4 million steps eliminated (583 miles walked for non-clinical work).

The success of Helen has paved the way for expansion to two additional floors (58 beds) this month, with a hospital-wide rollout planned for spring 2026.

“Helen is transforming how we honor the nursing profession—empowering nurses to practice fully at the top of their license,” said Stephanie Meyer, RN, MS-FNP, NEA-BC, Executive Vice President, Chief Nursing Executive, Chief Operating Officer Acute Care, Children’s Mercy. “By lifting the weight of non-clinical tasks, we safeguard the clarity and critical thinking that bedside care demands. This is about sustainability—creating space for connection, compassion and clinical excellence so our nurses can thrive, and our patients receive the very best care.”

Helen also provides operational insights by tracking every request, enabling data-driven improvements in efficiency and resource allocation. Future integration will allow families to make non-clinical requests across a variety of mobile touchpoints.

The new facility will be located on the Mercy South campus and will span 40,000 square feet across two stories. It will house Mercy Primary Pediatrics and Children’s Mercy pediatric specialists, offering families a centralized location for comprehensive pediatric services. 

The partnership between Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield Communities is more than a collaboration—it’s a shared commitment to the health and well-being of children in the community and region. Together, the organizations are embracing a bold vision: to distinctively transform children’s health and health care in southwest Missouri by improving access, care delivery and care coordination for children and families. 

“This is not just about health care—it’s about creating a future where kids have more access to the care they need, closer to home,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations, Children’s Mercy. “By joining forces with Mercy Springfield Communities, we are ensuring that families throughout southwest Missouri can receive enhanced, expert pediatric care in a facility designed specifically for children. Our shared commitment means that children and families will benefit from coordinated services, innovative treatments and the compassion of two organizations dedicated to making a meaningful difference in every child’s life.” 

“Partnering with Children’s Mercy, a top-rated pediatric hospital in the nation, allows us to take our pediatric services to the next level,” said John Myers, President, Mercy Springfield Communities. “Their clinical expertise and child-focused approach will help us build a system that delivers exceptional care to children and families across southwest Missouri.” 

Children’s Mercy is already providing management for a wide range of hospital-based pediatric services in Springfield, including: 

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Outpatient Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy 

Construction of the new facility is scheduled to begin by the end of 2025, with an anticipated opening date in December 2026. 

To ensure our partnership reflects the needs and priorities of local families, Children’s Mercy will establish a Patient & Family Advisory Council in the Springfield area. 

“This council will provide valuable feedback and insights as services and programs continue to grow,” said Debbie Schwartzkopf, DNP, RN, CPHQ, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, Children’s Mercy with Mercy. “Actively listening to families allows us to understand what truly matters most to the community. Our goal is for families to feel heard, valued and confident that their needs and priorities are at the heart of everything we do.” 

This commitment to listening and responding to the unique needs of each family is reflected in the real-life experiences of patients who have benefited from the expertise and compassion at Children’s Mercy.  

Matney’s journey demonstrates the profound impact that having specialized pediatric care closer to home can have on a child’s health and future. Matney is 15 years old, but the Marshfield, MO teenager’s lucky number is 18. In fact, she celebrates an extra “birthday” on the 18^th of every month because on February 18, 2025, she received a new immune system through a bone marrow donation from her younger brother.  

Matney’s mother, Ashley, first noticed something was wrong with her active teen in the summer of 2024. Matney woke up nauseous and weak and spent the whole day sleeping. The next day she developed a rash. Her Springfield pediatrician ordered bloodwork that showed her white blood cell count was extremely high. Matney had acute myeloid leukemia (AML). That night, Matney and her mom were on a Children’s Mercy Critical Care Transport plane to Kansas City. She had her first round of chemotherapy the next morning.  

On March 18, 2025, Matney headed home to Marshfield. Her 6-month follow-up tests looked great, and she is now back to sophomore year activities including student council, learning to drive and taking care of her many pets. After high school, she hopes to pursue a career in the medical field, possibly as a child life specialist who works with therapy dogs. 

Join us! Together, we are building a healthier future for every child.   

In August, Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield Communities entered into a Joint Operating Agreement that brings the strengths of both organizations together to better serve families. Through this collaboration, Children’s Mercy is now working alongside Mercy Hospital Springfield to manage hospital-based pediatric specialty services.

This partnership means families can access high-quality, specialized pediatric care—right in their own community

“At Children’s Mercy, kids are at the heart of everything we do,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations, Children’s Mercy. “We’re excited to be here in Springfield, working alongside Mercy to make sure families have seamless access to specialty pediatric care their children need—right where they live. This is a meaningful step forward for the region, and we’re just getting started.”

Children’s Mercy now oversees a full suite of pediatric specialty services at Mercy Hospital Springfield, including:

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Operating Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy

“This collaboration allows us to elevate pediatric care in our community by combining Mercy’s deep local roots with Children’s Mercy’s specialty services,” said John Myers, President, Mercy Springfield Communities. “Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected system of care for our youngest patients.”

In September, Children’s Mercy named Debbie Schwartzkopf, DNP, RN, CPHQ, Interim Chief Administrative Officer to lead the new partnership.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of children across the region," said Schwartzkopf. “By joining forces, Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield are making it easier for families to get the care they need—when and where they need it most.”

“Michelle brings a visionary approach to leadership—anchored in empathy and excellence,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “Her ability to build authentic connections across our workforce, patient families and community partners has made her a trusted voice and a powerful agent of change. Michelle has already redefined how we think about people and purpose, and we are thrilled to see her step into this role permanently.”

Michelle previously served as the organization’s Senior Vice President and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for five years.

She holds a J.D. degree from Tulane Law School, completed graduate studies at the University of Seville in Spain, and earned undergraduate degrees from the University of Missouri in Communication Arts and Spanish Language and Literature.

Before joining Children’s Mercy, she worked at Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, PC, one of the nation’s largest labor and employment law firms where, as Chief Diversity and Professional Development Officer, she led efforts to attract, develop and promote a diverse group of attorneys across the firm’s 53 offices.

She also previously practiced law at marquee law firms in Kansas City, handling employment, immigration and civil rights litigation, providing counsel to public school districts and using her language skills in Spanish and Portuguese to defend clients in suits filed in U.S. and Latin American courts.

“This role is a natural extension of my journey,” said Michelle Wimes, J.D., Chief People Officer, Children’s Mercy. “I’ve always believed that when we invest in people, we elevate everything—our care, our culture, our future. I’m honored to continue this work with the incredible team at Children’s Mercy.”

Michelle is a champion for fostering inclusive environments and a catalyst for change. Her appointment reinforces Children’s Mercy’s commitment to a workplace where every team member feels seen, valued and empowered.

“Michelle is an incredible human being that leads with both heart and vision—and the shadow she casts as a leader not only inspires action, but transforms those around her,” said Tom Wright, retired Children’s Mercy EVP, Chief Human Resources Officer. “At Children’s Mercy, everything they do is for the children and families they serve—and that includes attracting, retaining, developing and  empowering the incredible people who make it all possible.”

“Illuminate is more than a plan—it’s our promise. We set out to transform youth mental health care, and today that vision is taking shape. From classrooms to clinics, research to recovery rooms, our community has built something remarkable,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “We’re proud of the progress, but we know the journey continues. With ongoing support, we’ll keep advancing—because every child deserves to be seen, supported and well.”

As the nation confronts an unprecedented youth mental health crisis, Illuminate is transforming how families access care through 14 planned projects, aimed to reach more than 80,000 children in the area. By focusing on four key areas, the initiative is already making a measurable difference—launching the following projects and illuminating pathways to brighter futures. 

Facilitating Early Intervention

• Behavioral health embedded in primary care: Three community-based practices now offer integrated behavioral health services, with the goal of adding a fourth this fall. More than 2,100 visits have already connected children to care—reducing wait times from months to minutes.
• School-based support: A partnership with Center School District in eight schools serving 2,500+ students improving access to behavioral health education and support in the school setting. In just one school year, seven out of eight schools reported fewer office discipline referrals.
• Streamlined access: The new “One Front Door” intake process creates a seamless entry point for families seeking behavioral health care at Children’s Mercy, simplifying this process for almost 10,000 families since its launch.

Increasing Specialty Services

• DAY Clinic: The Depression and Anxiety in Youth (DAY) Clinic has provided multidisciplinary care to over 250 youth. Over 70% of youth who have completed the program report reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms. The program has added care coordination, increased community outreach and is building partnerships across Illuminate to support youth in all aspects of their mental health journey.
• Eating disorders care: Children’s Mercy now offers the only specialized program in the region for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Children receive treatment tailored to their specific needs (medical, behavioral, nutrition, occupational therapy), to support an individualized approach to care.
• Rapid diagnosis pilot: A pilot program is streamlining access to Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments, helping families get answers and next steps faster. Plans are underway to expand this model to increase access to diagnostic assessment for other emotional and behavioral concerns.
• Autism and Neurodevelopmental Continuity Clinic: More than 500 families have been supported through this new clinic, which bridges the gap between diagnosis and autism-specific care.

Investing in Research & Innovation

• Ongoing research: Children’s Mercy researchers are leading the way in pediatric mental health research seeking to identify the causes of behavioral health conditions, develop personalized therapeutics, advance digital mental health technologies and transform models of care to improve access.
• Future growth: Children’s Mercy, in collaboration with external advisors, is mapping out next steps to build on its strong foundation of research and innovation—leveraging opportunities to expand research that will transform mental and behavioral health care.

Expanding Acute Care Services

• Children’s Mercy + Camber Mental Wellness Campus: Opened in December 2024, this 72,700-square-foot inpatient psychiatric hospital added 48 pediatric beds—a 29% increase in regional capacity. The facility is operating at full capacity, with more than 1,500 pediatric admissions to date.
• PATH Clinic: Since opening at the beginning of the year, the PATH Clinic has provided more than 300 visits, bridging the vulnerable gap between emergency care and community providers.
• Partial Hospitalization Program: Opened in August, the program bridges the gap between inpatient and outpatient services, offering a more intensive level of care for children and adolescents who need more comprehensive treatment than traditional outpatient programs can provide, but do not require full hospitalization.

Two more in-hospital services are expected to launch by early next  year. The Emergency Mental Health Crisis Center will be a dedicated space in the Emergency Department designed to be a calm, safe environment for patients experiencing a mental health crisis. And 5 West, an innovative model of inpatient medical care, will open in one of the medical-surgical units, offering fully integrated care in a space designed for children who have both medical and psychiatric needs.

“We’re witnessing a shift in how mental health care is delivered and it’s happening because we’re listening to families, partnering with schools and embedding care where kids already are,” said Rebecca Johnson, PhD, ABPP, Clinical Psychologist, Division Director for Developmental and Behavioral Health. “Illuminate has allowed us to meet children earlier in their journey, explore models of care that improve access, and offer specialized services that didn’t exist before. It’s not just about access—it’s about impact. And we’re just getting started.”

A 5-year, $150M funding goal was set to ignite the Illuminate initiative. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of more than 5,000 donors and a $25 million appropriation from the State of Missouri, Children’s Mercy is close to achieving this in record time—securing 87% to date.

Yet there’s still work to be done. Inspired by the incredible work of Illuminate and its mental health champions, an anonymous donor has given a $17 million gift to match every dollar raised until Children’s Mercy reaches its $150 million goal. Every gift, every partnership and every act of support brings the community closer to a future where every child has access to the mental health care they deserve.

To learn more about Illuminate, access a mental health toolkit or double your impact with a donation today, visit https://www.childrensmercy.org/illuminate.

This year, two specialties placed among the top 25 nationwide: Nephrology at #14, and Neurology and Neurosurgery at #23. 

Additionally, for the second consecutive year, Children’s Mercy’s Pediatric and Adolescent Behavioral Health was named a top 50 program. (All mental health programs receive equal recognition.)  

The rankings below reflect the expertise, compassion and commitment the teams provide to patients and families every day. 

Children’s Mercy specialties’ rankings: 

• Nephrology (#14)
• Neurology & Neurosurgery (#23)
• Urology (#26)
• Cardiology & Heart Surgery (#30)
• Gastroenterology & GI Surgery (#33)
• Diabetes & Endocrinology (#36)
• Neonatology (#40)
• Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (#46)
• Behavioral Health (Top 50) 

“At Children’s Mercy, excellence isn’t defined just by rankings—every child we care for, every family we support and every breakthrough we achieve reflects the heart of our mission,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO of Children’s Mercy. “Being recognized among the top pediatric hospitals in the nation by U.S. News & World Report is an honor, but what matters most is the trust families place in us and the healing we deliver every day. That’s the true measure of our success.” 

U.S News surveyed nearly 150 pediatric centers, gathering clinical and operational data. This data was then combined with results from a reputational survey in which board-certified pediatric specialists were asked where they would send the sickest children in their specialty. 

The full rankings and methodology are available at www.usnews.com/childrenshospitals. 

Children’s Mercy was the first to use 5-base HiFi LRS, the world’s most-advanced genomic sequencing system, in the clinical setting to accelerate diagnosis for even more patients and families.

“Children’s Mercy is a trailblazer in every sense of the word—we’re not just advancing medicine, we’re reshaping it,” said Ale Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “This research isn’t simply a breakthrough; it’s a blueprint for what pediatric care can and should be. By deepening diagnostic precision and elevating the care experience for families, we’re equipping our clinicians with sharper tools, faster answers and greater insight. And we’re doing it for the children who need us most.”

The study compared 235 children who received the new LRS test to more than 500 children who underwent traditional genetic testing. The results were striking:

• Higher diagnostic success: LRS identified the cause of a child’s condition significantly more often than standard testing increasing the diagnostic rate by 10% over all previous tests combined.
• Faster answers: On average, families received a diagnosis in less than a month—compared to the traditional methods, which took about 91 days on average.
• Fewer tests, less stress: LRS often replaced the need for multiple rounds of testing, reducing the emotional and financial burden on families.

“Every day matters when a child is sick and undiagnosed, and this research shows that we can deliver answers faster, with fewer tests and with greater clarity than ever before,” said Tomi Pastinen, MD, PhD, Vice President, Associate Chief Medical Officer for Clinical and Research Integration, Children’s Mercy, and corresponding author of the study. “Children’s Mercy is not just doing research—we’re integrating research with clinical care—we’re raising standards and transforming pediatric medicine.” 

The benefits of clinical LRS identified in the study are likely only the beginnings of what may be uncovered through expanded testing and further understanding of noncoding regions.

“What we’ve uncovered so far is powerful—but what’s ahead is even more promising,” said Isabelle Thiffault, MSc, PhD, FACMGG, Director of Translational Genomics, Children’s Mercy, and first author of the study. “As we continue to explore the noncoding regions of the genome and expand access to this technology, we’re opening doors to diagnoses that were once out of reach. This is how we change the future of pediatric medicine—by building a foundation for discoveries that will help generations of children to come.”

Children’s Mercy is leading the way in rare disease discovery with the use of LRS in its nationally recognized Genomic Answers for Kids (GA4K) program, a first-of-its-kind pediatric data repository to facilitate the search for answers and novel treatments for pediatric genetic conditions.

In just four years, GA4K has delivered more than 2,100 diagnoses—offering answers to families who have long searched for them. The program is fueled by the generosity of donors and the dedication of researchers, clinicians and families who believe in a future where no child’s condition goes undiagnosed.

Children’s Mercy is excited to announce a significant step forward in its commitment to expand access to specialized, pediatric care in Springfield. As part of its joint venture with Mercy Springfield Communities, Children’s Mercy has named Debbie Schwartzkopf, DNP, RN, CPHQ, its Interim Chief Administrative Officer to lead the new partnership. 

“Debbie is a respected and trusted leader at Children’s Mercy,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations, Children’s Mercy. “She brings more than 30 years of experience as a nurse and health care leader, with a career spanning Children’s Mercy’s Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery, Fetal Health Center, Quality & Safety, and Ambulatory Services.” 

In her new role, Debbie has already begun working closely with the Mercy team. 

“Debbie’s collaborative spirit and strategic insight make her the ideal leader to guide this exciting new chapter,” said John Myers, President, Mercy Springfield Communities. “Her deep understanding of pediatric care and her commitment to partnership will help us build a system that delivers exceptional care to children and families across Southwest Missouri.” 

As Children’s Mercy brings its pediatric expertise to Springfield, the joint venture will create a seamless pediatric system of care that strengthens coordination between providers, supports community clinicians and improves access—so more kids can get the specialized care they need, when they need it, close to home. 

Beginning in November, Children’s Mercy will provide management for a wide range of hospital-based pediatric services including: 

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Outpatient Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy 

“I’m honored and energized to lead our shared vision forward, advancing patient care for families in Springfield and beyond,” said Debbie. “Together, we’re not just improving health care, we’re shaping a future that will transform the lives of families who will now know that world-class pediatric care is available right in their own community.” 

PRESS RELEASE: Mercy and Children's Mercy Announce New Details of Partnership and Expanded Pediatric Care at Community Celebration

The Children’s Mercy PHP will provide comprehensive, day-long care to patients, allowing them to return home each night. This approach ensures patients receive the necessary support while maintaining the comfort and stability of their home environment. In addition, the program is dedicated to offering equitable care for patients with both behavioral and medical needs.

“Children and adolescents with serious medical conditions or complex medical needs often have limited options when stepped-up care is required,” said Rebecca Johnson, PhD, ABPP, Clinical Psychologist, Division Director for Developmental and Behavioral Health. “Our goal is to address a significant health inequity in our community and create a continuum of care for kids who have both physical and behavioral health needs.” 

The PHP will serve children aged 6 to 17 with a wide range of medical, psychological, and neurodevelopmental conditions, including those who may have a serious medical condition such as cancer, heart or kidney disease, diabetes, malnutrition, neurological disorders, or those with developmental differences such as autism.

The program will offer several hours of daily treatment, five days a week, for up to 30 days. It will be grounded in evidence-based practices, equipping children with essential coping and self-management skills to effectively overcome everyday challenges. A multidisciplinary team will deliver a comprehensive suite of services, including psychiatric medication consultation, nursing, psychological evaluation, various therapies (behavioral, individual, group), family counseling and parent coaching, educational support, child life activities, nutrition guidance and discharge planning.

The PHP is located in Children’s Mercy’s Don Chisholm building. In addition to Children’s Mercy physicians referring patients to the program, community providers can refer patients to the PHP and families are welcome to self-refer.

This is one of 14 projects of the broader Children’s Mercy Illuminate plan, a comprehensive initiative to address the mental health needs of children and teens in the community. To date, more than 4,900 donors have contributed $130 million to advance the Illuminate initiative forward.

As part of the celebration, Children’s Mercy–a nationally recognized independent pediatric health system–is announcing it will manage Mercy Springfield’s hospital-based and specialized pediatric care starting this November. The news comes as Children’s Mercy and Mercy have now signed a joint operating agreement. As Children’s Mercy brings its pediatric expertise to Springfield, it will create a seamless pediatric system of care that strengthens coordination between providers, supports community clinicians and improves access so kids can get the specialized care they need, when they need it, close to home.

“At Children’s Mercy, we are built for kids—our entire child-focused approach is tailored to specifically meet the unique medical, emotional and developmental needs of children, ensuring young patients receive the most compassionate and effective pediatric care possible,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations, Children’s Mercy. “This partnership with Mercy reflects our shared dedication to putting children first and we’re excited to bring our pediatric expertise to Springfield and elevate the care for children and their families.”

Children’s Mercy specialists are already providing care in Springfield with expanded ambulatory services in cardiology and EEG support for neurology. Under the agreement, Children’s Mercy will provide management for a wide range of hospital-based pediatric services, including:

• Pediatric Inpatient Care
• Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Pediatric Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Department (Peds ED)
• Pediatric Operating Procedures (POPs)
• Child Life Services
• Pediatric Social Work
• Pediatric Respiratory Therapy
• Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy

The collaboration between Mercy and Children’s Mercy will help transform the lives of families and reduce the need to travel long distances for care. It will also provide quicker access to specialists and comfort to patient families who will now know that world-class pediatric care is right in their own community.

Consider Little Franklin (Frankie) who burst onto the scene at just 25 weeks, 3 days gestation. Weighing just 1.5-pounds at birth, Frankie represents a true fighter. In spite of many setbacks, Frankie has overcome each obstacle with the help of his fiercely dedicated family and his medical care teams in Kansas City and Springfield. After more than 200 days in the NICU, where he charmed the nurses into letting him stay up late for extra snuggles, Frankie is now thriving at home with his family in Springfield. The family visits multiple Children's Mercy clinics for Frankie’s follow-up care, and they’re grateful to be able to access several of these teams through our satellite clinics in Springfield and via telemedicine when appropriate. “We’re excited for the growing options for us to get Frankie’s care closer to home,” says mom, Stevie Inman.

This collaboration brings together Mercy’s deep community roots and Children’s Mercy’s nationally ranked pediatric expertise.

Mercy currently cares for the majority of pediatric patients in southwest Missouri and Children’s Mercy is consistently ranked among America’s Best Children’s Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report and is home to the Children’s Mercy Research Institute, a national leader in pediatric translational research.

“I feel like this is a dream come true,” said Dr. John Burson, Regional Service Line Chair for Women and Children, and a pediatrician at Mercy Springfield Communities. “We’ve been dreaming of ways to enhance pediatric care in this region for 10 years, and even though we already have a strong pediatric hospital in Springfield, we know that kids often must leave town when they need complex care that requires a specialist. By teaming up with Children’s Mercy and bringing their specialists to our campus, we’ll be able to care for more complex needs here at home. As a pediatrician myself, this feels like a huge win for kids in this community.”

To celebrate this milestone, Children’s Mercy and Mercy Springfield are hosting a special event to recognize the teams who helped bring this vision to life, along with the patients this partnership will impact and benefit the most. 

These accomplished leaders bring diverse expertise across science, business and community engagement, further strengthening the organization’s mission to transform the health and well-being of all children. 

Their unparalleled expertise and innovative perspectives reinforce Children’s Mercy’s unwavering commitment to groundbreaking research and improving patient care through cutting-edge discoveries.  

The new members include: 

Alejandro Sanchez Alvarado, BS, PhD, is a pioneering molecular biologist renowned for transforming the study of regeneration. He helped establish planarians as a powerful research organism, enabling the identification and functional analysis of genes crucial to regeneration. Sánchez Alvarado’s research has expanded to other regenerative models aiming to bridge insights from invertebrates to vertebrates and inform regenerative medicine. His scientific leadership includes serving as President and Chief Scientific Officer of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and holding prominent roles on scientific boards and advisory committees. Recognized with major honors—including the Vilcek Prize in Biomedical Science, election to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and fellowships in leading scientific societies—his work has fundamentally advanced our understanding of regeneration and its potential applications in human health. Sánchez Alvarado speaks at conferences and seminars worldwide and serves on multiple local, regional, and national boards, including the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, Linda Hall Library and KCUR in Kansas City.  

Sean L. Hart, BS, MA, MBA, is Senior Advisor, Asia Pacific Business Solutions at Precision for Medicine where he works to expand the global team in state-of-the-art oncology and rare disease research. Before Precision for Medicine, he was Chief Business Officer, Managing Director of North America & Europe Operations at George Clinical, a global scientifically driven clinical research organization. His extensive and distinguished research background has significantly contributed to the advancement of clinical and scientific knowledge. While at George Clinical, he oversaw the creation and implementation of innovative clinical technologies, processes, and statistical methodologies. His leadership in developing and directing business development planning and execution was pivotal in driving the organization’s growth. Hart’s role in establishing core operational and scientific units within each business unit at George Clinical ensured the integration of cutting-edge research practices across the company. His commitment to excellence was further demonstrated by his involvement in the Executive Leadership team. Hart is a graduate of the University of Kansas where he received a B.S. in Biochemistry. He later earned a Master of Arts in Marketing and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University in Kansas City. His first job was working in an operating room at Children’s Mercy.  

Mark Jorgenson, BA, MBA, is a retired financial services executive who continues to be active in various commercial and civic organizations. Prior to retirement, he served as Executive Vice President and Head of Community Banking for U.S. Bank. Jorgenson was responsible for leading the bank’s 1,150+ branch offices and 8,500+ employees located in communities throughout U.S. Bank’s 24-state footprint. He had been employed by U.S. Bank and its predecessor banks in the Kansas City market since June 1981. Jorgenson is on several boards including The Civic Council of Greater Kansas City, Hall Family Foundation, Hunt Midwest Enterprises, and the Police Foundation Board of KC. He received his MBA from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. He is also a member of the inaugural class of the Ewing M. Kauffman Distinguished Eagle Scout Award for notable contributions to the Kansas City community. 

Laura McConnell, BA, is Chairman and CEO of Labconco where she leads the strategic vision and day to day operations, providing oversight of the business and working directly with the executive team. Labconco is in the biotechnology research industry and manufactures laboratory equipment while offering international sales, product service, and support. She first joined its Board of Directors in 2016 and assumed the role of Vice Chairman in 2019 before becoming Chairman and CEO in July 2020. Laura has also served as the Head of Contracting and Procurement for The Stowers Institute for Medical Research. Prior to Labconco, McConnell spent five years with E&I Cooperative as the Vice President of Research and Academic Healthcare and more than 15 years with VWR International, holding various sales and managerial positions. She is a graduate of Denison University where she received a B.A. with a double major in Biology and Dance. 

“As a national leader in pediatric research, science and clinical care, we are honored to welcome these distinguished new board members,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, CEO & President of Children’s Mercy. “Each individual brings deep expertise and a shared commitment to our mission of transforming the potential of all children—one child at a time. Their leadership will be instrumental as we continue to accelerate innovation, expand access, and deliver world-class pediatric care powered by groundbreaking research.” 

Children’s Mercy would also like to thank Bill Krueger for serving on the Board of Directors for the past 10 years. He held several positions during his tenure including Chair of the Board.  

“As we reflect on the past decade, we are grateful for Bill’s extraordinary service and commitment to Children’s Mercy,” said Diane Gallagher, Children’s Mercy, Board Chair. “We express our heartfelt appreciation to him as we continue to build on the foundation he helped establish.” 

Children’s Mercy is proud to announce Clark Andrew Bonham, MD, as the new Director of the Division of Transplant Surgery and Director of the Transplant Research Program at its Brendan Tripp Elam Transplant Center. 

Dr. Bonham, a native of Oklahoma, returns to the Midwest after an illustrious 22-year tenure at Stanford Hospital and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital. At Stanford, he worked with one of the busiest pediatric transplant teams in the country and led multi-disciplinary transplant teams, managed complex organ transplant programs, and directed the Live Donor Liver Transplant and Intestinal Transplant programs.  

“Dr. Bonham’s arrival is significant not just for our hospital, but for every child and family we serve. His vision for the transplant program is rooted in urgency, equity, and excellence – and it will expand access to life-saving care across our region,” said Doug Rivard, DO, Executive Vice President and Physician-in-Chief, Children’s Mercy. “This is what leadership looks like; the right person, at the right time, for the right reasons – and with the power to change lives.” 

Dr. Bonham’s extensive experience in complex transplant care includes leading one of the largest programs in combined organ transplants, such as heart / liver, lung / liver and multi-visceral transplants.  

His achievements at Stanford include:  

• Increasing liver transplant volume by 30% while maintaining excellent outcomes. 
• Leading successful United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) certification processes. 
• Implementing new protocols that reduced the length of stay for patients. 
• Developing strategic partnerships to expand the patient referral network. 
• Performing the first laparoscopic live donor hepatectomy on the West Coast. 
• Achieving unprecedented outcomes in intestinal transplants with no losses to rejection since 2014. 

“We cannot be more excited for Dr. Bonham to lead the surgical program for the Brendan Tripp Elam Transplant Center,” said Shawn St. Peter, MD, Senior Vice President & Surgeon-in-Chief, Children’s Mercy. “Throughout his career he has been a pioneer in the field of transplant surgery, as well as a respected leader, teacher and mentor.” 

The Brendan Tripp Elam Transplant Center at Children’s Mercy has a rich history of providing exceptional transplant care to pediatric patients. Established with a mission to offer life-saving organ transplants to children in need, the Center has grown to become a leader in pediatric heart, kidney, and liver transplant surgery.  

Dr. Bonham shared his excitement about joining Children’s Mercy: “I look forward to joining the team at Children’s Mercy to build on the accomplishments of the abdominal transplant program. Leadership at Children’s Mercy has an ambitious vision to create an unprecedented center of excellence to offer complex transplant care to all children, serving as a magnet for care available nowhere else. I look forward to playing a part in reaching new heights at Children’s Mercy.” 

Magnet designation is the highest and most prestigious distinction a health care organization can receive for nursing excellence. It is awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and is considered the gold standard for nursing practices and quality patient care.

“Six-cess” in Nursing Excellence

The theme of this year’s redesignation, “Six-cess,” celebrates the dedication and hard work of Children’s Mercy’s nurses and their unwavering commitment to providing the best possible care to patients. This milestone is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire hospital team, including nurses, physicians and support staff, who work together to ensure the highest standards of care.

“We are incredibly proud to receive our sixth Magnet designation,” said Stephanie Meyer, MS-FNP, RN, NEA-BC, Executive Vice President, Chief Nursing Executive and Chief Operating Officer for Inpatient Operations at Children’s Mercy. “This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team’s commitment to excellence. It is an honor to be among the top pediatric hospitals nationwide to achieve this milestone. We’re a better organization today because of the Magnet recognition we first achieved 22 years ago.”

National Recognition

Children’s Mercy’s achievement of six consecutive Magnet designations underscores its status as a leader in pediatric health care. The hospital’s commitment to nursing excellence has resulted in improved patient outcomes, higher patient satisfaction, and enhanced nurse retention and satisfaction.

Magnet recognition is the gold standard for nursing excellence and plays a factor in how the public views health care organizations. U.S. News & World Report’s annual showcase of “America’s Best Hospitals” includes Magnet recognition in its ranking criteria for quality of inpatient care.

“Nursing excellence isn’t just a designation — it’s a daily decision," said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and CEO at Children’s Mercy. “Our nurses bring clarity in the midst of chaos, they lead with kindness, and they always remember that we're here for the kids. This sixth Magnet recognition is more than a milestone — it’s a reflection of the soul, strength and speed our nursing teams bring to every child, every family, every time.”

Research demonstrates that Magnet recognition provides specific benefits to health care organizations and their communities, such as:

· Higher patient satisfaction with nurse communication, availability of help and receipt of discharge information.

· Lower risk of 30-day mortality and lower failure to rescue rates.

· Higher job satisfaction among nurses.

· Higher nursing retention rates for team members in their current place of employment.

The Magnet Model provides a framework for nursing practice, research and measurement of outcomes. Through this framework, the ANCC evaluates applicants across several components and dimensions to gauge an organization’s nursing excellence.

“When we first met, both Robin and Tom shared with me their plans to retire this year. We celebrate the legacy they leave behind—a legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to Children’s Mercy,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, CEO and President, Children’s Mercy. “As part of this transition, I’m thrilled to announce three leaders that will advance our mission and shape our future as a world-class pediatric health system.”  

Robin’s career spans 43 years, first in private practice and then with Children’s Mercy. He will retire on Tuesday, July 1, having served with distinction as General Counsel. A trusted steward of Children’s Mercy’s legal and ethical standards, Robin guided Children’s Mercy through a period of dynamic growth. MaLiz Denk, currently Vice President, Chief Risk Officer, and Deputy General Counsel, has been promoted to Executive Vice President and General Counsel. MaLiz’s deep institutional knowledge and proven leadership will ensure a smooth and strategic transition in our legal affairs. 

Tom will also retire after years of transformative leadership in human resources. However, he will stay on after July 1 to assist with the transition. Michelle Wimes, JD, Senior Vice President and Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer, will serve as Interim Chief People Officer. With her extensive leadership experience and legal background, Michelle brings a strategic lens to human capital, diversity, and organizational culture. 

In response to the evolving landscape of pediatric health care, Children’s Mercy is excited to introduce a new executive role: Chief Transformation Officer (CTO). This position will lead the charge in modernizing operations, enhancing patient experience, and leveraging data and technology to drive innovation. 

We are thrilled to welcome Dave Henriksen as Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, effective Tuesday, July 1. Dave joins us from Notable Health in San Mateo, California, where he led value-based care initiatives. His expertise in health care management, physician relations, and digital transformation will be instrumental in advancing our mission. 

“As the only freestanding pediatric hospital in the state of Kansas, this expansion will allow for even more families to have access to world-class care closer to home,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, CEO & President, Children’s Mercy. "We're really excited about this project because it shows how dedicated we are to giving the best care possible to our community. By bringing all our outpatient services together, improving our hospital facilities, and creating a modern, connected campus, we're making sure we can meet the growing needs of patients and families in the region.” 

The first phase of the project, already underway, is the expansion of surgical services which includes the renovation of the Sterile Processing Department and the addition of new pre-op, post-op, and procedural spaces. Construction is set to be complete by summer 2026.  

“We have teams of nationally recognized surgeons and proceduralists. The addition of new procedures rooms and expanded facilities will allow CMHK to meet the growing demand for procedural services in specialties such as ENT, Orthopedics and Gastroenterology,” said Shawn St. Peter, MD, Senior Vice President, Surgeon-in-Chief, Children’s Mercy.  

The expansion project also includes: 

• New Medical Office Building (MOB): A state-of-the-art facility to consolidate outpatient services currently spread across multiple locations, providing a seamless and connected experience for patients and families. The MOB is scheduled to open in the Summer of 2027. 
• Hospital Renovations: Upgrades to the hospital space vacated by the consolidation of outpatient services, enhancing the overall patient and staff experience. These renovations are expected to be completed by the Summer of 2029. 
• New Service Offerings: Introduction of new programs such as Inpatient Rehab, Intensive Outpatient Programs, an expanded GI Motility program and a Neuroscience Center of Excellence. 
• Parking and Exterior Updates: Modern parking structures, new entrances, and exterior improvements to facilitate better wayfinding and accessibility. (Parking and Emergency services will still be accessible throughout construction.) 

“We listened to the needs of physicians and families in this community and the expansion of our Kansas hospital strengthens our capacity to serve the growing pediatric population,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations, Children’s Mercy. “This is more than just adding rooms or advancing technology; it’s about deepening our commitment and reaffirming our dedication to delivering top-quality, accessible health care to every child that needs it.”  

The community is invited to be part of this initiative. Philanthropic gifts will advance this renovation to improve the health of all children and families, bringing expert care closer to home. 

“We are committed to caring for kids close to home – it reduces family stress, saves time and ensures continuity of care with regular health care providers, which leads to better health outcomes and a more positive experience,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, CEO & President, Children’s Mercy. “This new larger clinic location deepens our promise to support children’s health and well-being in the region, and we’re excited to grow alongside the communities we serve to help all children reach their full potential.”

The new 18,000 square foot standalone facility, located at the intersection of North Greenwich Road and East 28^th Street N, will be designed to optimize space, foster collaboration and allow for expanded services.

"We’re thrilled to expand our ability to deliver exceptional clinical care to more children and families in the region,” said Mary Ann Queen, MD, FAAP, Vice President and Associate Chief Medical Officer for Regional and Outreach Services. “We’ve been part of Wichita for more than a decade and we look forward to building on that relationship to foster a healthier and stronger community.

Since 2012, Children’s Mercy has been a cornerstone in south central Kansas providing world-class pediatric care in more than 30 specialty clinics, including Cardiology, Endocrinology and Nephrology. The new clinic will allow for additional specialty offerings in-person and through telemedicine.

“For thirteen years, we’ve delivered excellent, timely and coordinated care for families at Children’s Mercy’s Wichita ambulatory center,” said Amy Fallon, MPH, PhD, President of Regional Operations. “As a leading children’s health organization, we are thrilled to increase health care access for families in the Wichita community.” 

The new Children’s Mercy Wichita location is expected to open in Summer 2026.

Stephanie Meyer, MS-FNP, RN, NEA-BC has been promoted to Executive Vice President/Chief Nursing Executive and Chief Operating Officer for Inpatient Operations. Stephanie’s journey at Children’s Mercy spans 26 years and she has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Vice President of Patient Care Operations, Associate Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) and most recently CNO.

Stephanie is known for her authenticity, her effectiveness, and has a remarkable talent for driving improvement while fostering collaboration. In her new role, she will oversee the daily operations of inpatient care, align services with organizational goals and foster a collaborative environment among health care teams.

Steven Leeder, PharmD, PhD has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer. With 28 years of service, Dr. Leeder is a renowned leader in Pediatric Precision Therapeutics and has been a cornerstone of the Children’s Mercy research enterprise, developing programs like GOLDILOKS. During his time as interim leader of the Children's Mercy Research Institute, he and the team saw significant growth in extramural funding while continuing to ensure research transforms care in ways that deeply impact our children and families.

In his new role, Dr. Leeder will continue to drive innovation and excellence in scientific research, furthering the organization’s mission to improve patient care through cutting-edge discoveries.

Amy Fallon, PhD has been promoted to President of Regional Operations. Dr. Fallon has a proven track record of success in health care management and has served as the Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for Children’s Mercy Hospital Kansas the past year.

She has been instrumental in expanding Children’s Mercy’s presence in Kansas and overseeing the success of the Kansas campus, ensuring more families across the region have access to exceptional care. Her strategic vision and commitment are a driving force behind the organization’s growth. In her new role, she will oversee operations throughout the region.

Tomi Pastinen, MD, PhD, has been promoted to Vice President and Associate Chief Medical Officer for Clinical and Research Integration. Dr. Pastinen has served as the Division Director of Genomic Medicine for the past seven years where he has made significant contributions to the field of pediatric genomics.

Through the Genomic Answers for Kids initiative, a first-of-its-kind pediatric data repository to facilitate the search for answers and novel treatments for pediatric genetic conditions, Dr. Pastinen has transformed care for children with rare diseases and placed Children’s Mercy at the forefront of global innovation. Under his leadership, Children’s Mercy became the first health care system in the U.S. to use 5-base HiFi sequencing, the world’s most-advanced genomic sequencing technology, in both research and the clinical setting. In this new role, Dr. Pastinen will spearhead translational research to bridge the gap between the bedside and the bench to help improve patient care and outcomes.  

“These promotions reflect the remarkable talent within Children’s Mercy and our shared vision for the future,” said Alejandro Quiroga, MD, MBA, President and Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “Their leadership, expertise and dedication will undoubtedly continue to strengthen our organization and enhance our ability to provide the best possible care to the children and families in our community.”

The groundbreaking study, titled “Rapid and scalable personalized ASO screening in patient-derived organoids,” was published in the journal Nature. This marks the first time in five years that research led by a Kansas City institution has appeared in the prestigious publication.  

Many labs already generate patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), but the process currently takes up to a year and costs between $5,000 and $10,000 per patient. The paper describes a new method that requires only a small number of patient blood cells, can generate iPSCs in just two to three weeks and costs less than $500 per patient. The research team used these patient-derived iPSCs to grow patient-specific organoids, 3-dimensional cell models that recapitulate organ development and function. These organoids are powerful tools for understanding disease biology as well as the development of patient-specific therapeutics. 

“The team can generate iPSCs and organoid models for many patients in parallel, leading to an accelerated evaluation of therapeutic interventions,” said Scott Younger, PhD, Director, Disease Gene Engineering, Genomic Medicine Center, and leader of The Younger Laboratory, Children’s Mercy. “Instead of waiting more than a year for cell models to be generated before experiments could even begin, a family could go from blood draw to diagnosis and/or treatment recommendation in a month or two.” 

The Children’s Mercy Genomic Medicine Center validated the process using samples from three patients enrolled in its Genetic Answers for Kids (GA4K) program with Duchenne muscular dystrophy whose genetic variants were good candidates for treatment with ASOs. They were able to restore dystrophin protein expression and function in patient-derived organoids using an FDA-approved ASO for one patient and customized patient-specific ASOs for the other two patients. 

“Patient-derived organoid models have the potential to be widely used in creating cellular systems for investigating disorders involving the heart, kidney, liver and other tissues, in addition to identifying which medications are likely to be effective for a specific patient and which ones may not,” said Steve Leeder, PharmD, PhD, Interim Executive Director, Children’s Mercy Research Institute. “Having the ability to scale the use of a patient-derived organoid platform uniquely positions us to achieve a ‘bedside-to-bench-to bedside-and beyond’ approach and helps us prioritize the integration of research with clinical care at Children’s Mercy.” 

The research team hopes this method will be adopted by other institutions to provide faster, better care for rare disease patients worldwide. 

“The methods and protocols generated in this study are accessible and can be implemented in any standard research laboratory without the need for specialized equipment or high-cost reagents,” said Dr. Younger. “The widespread ability to generate patient-derived cellular systems will have a substantial effect on the understanding of disease mechanisms as well as potential therapeutic avenues for the treatment of many rare disease.” 

The study’s co-authors are John C. Means, PhD, research scientist, Genomic Medicine Center; Anabel L. Martinez Bengochea, PhD, research scientist, Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology; Daniel A. Louiselle, MS, research assistant, Genomic Medicine Center; Jacqelyn M. Nemechek, PhD, research scientist, Hematology/Oncology/BMT; John M. Perry, PhD, doctoral research faculty, Hematology/Oncology/BMT; Emily G. Farrow, PhD, CGC, Assistant Clinical Director, Clinical Genetics; Tomi Pastinen, MD, PhD, Division Director, Genomic Medicine Center; and Dr. Younger.  

• Introducing three new roles for Associate Chief Medical Officer (ACMO) to lead acute and inpatient care, regional and outreach services, and ambulatory services, respectively, these positions will report to the Douglas Rivard, Executive Vice President and Physician-in-Chief.
• Concurrently, Children’s Mercy announces the creation of an Associate Chief Nursing Officer (ACNO) position for the Ambulatory Nursing Practice. This role will report to Stephanie Meyer, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer.

“Based on an assessment of our current structure, a comprehensive review of our needs and gathering input from numerous medical staff members, nursing and other key leaders, we determined these new positions will further improve and streamline our clinical operations,” said Doug Rivard, DO, Executive Vice President and Physician-in-Chief, Children’s Mercy. “The ACMOs and ACNO will focus on assigned areas to promote consistent performance and practice standards across the organization while fostering a collaborative environment.”

Stephanie Meyer, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, added, “Dr. Rivard and I have collaborated in taking a wholistic approach to defining a vision for the future leadership of our physician and nursing practices and we are excited for the positive changes this will bring to our organization and the community we serve.”

We are pleased to share the following appointments:

Jennifer Watts, MD, MPH, is being promoted to the position of Vice President, Associate Chief Medical Officer for Acute Care and Inpatient Services. Dr. Watts, a pediatric emergency medicine physician, who has been with Children’s Mercy for 20 years, has served in a variety of roles, including most recently as Chief Emergency Management Medical Officer and Chief Patient Progression Officer.

Mary Ann Queen, MD, Vice President, Regional and Diagnostic Services, has accepted the position of Vice President, Associate Chief Medical Officer for Regional and Outreach Services with expanded responsibilities. Dr. Queen, a pediatric hospitalist, has been with Children’s Mercy for 31 years and has served in a variety of roles, most recently President of the Medical Staff.  

Ahmed Abdelmoity, MD, MBA, MS, Vice President, Clinical Access, has accepted the position of Vice President, Associate Chief Medical Officer for Ambulatory Services. Dr. Abdelmoity, a pediatric neurologist, has been with Children’s Mercy for 19 years and has served in a variety of roles, including Division Director of Neurology and Associate Chair for the Department of Pediatrics. 

The incumbent for the ACNO role will be named in the coming weeks and will manage ambulatory nursing services for Children’s Mercy.

After a comprehensive nation-wide search, Children’s Mercy Kansas City announced today the appointment of Alejandro Quiroga (pronunciation A-lee Kee-row-ga), MD, MBA, as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2, 2025. Dr. Quiroga comes to Children’s Mercy from Corewell Health, the largest health care system in Michigan, where he served as President of Corewell Health West.

“I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Quiroga, a pediatric nephrologist and inspiring leader with a strong research mindset, as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Mercy. We knew Dr. Quiroga was the ideal choice for Children’s Mercy. He stood out for his impressive experience leading a successful, growing hospital system with a spirit of humility, optimism, innovation and a deep passion for caring for children.” said Diane Gallagher, Board Chair Children’s Mercy. “We are energized by the next chapter under Dr. Quiroga’s leadership.”

Dr. Quiroga oversaw Corewell Health West, a $4.2 B integrated health system which includes: the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and 9 other hospitals, over 120 ambulatory sites, the largest teaching hospital for Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, a combined medical staff of 4,000 providers with a 2,000-provider employed medical group, 38 medical residencies and fellowship programs, and an acclaimed $128+ M research and quaternary program that includes adult heart and lung transplants, pediatric kidney transplants and bone marrow transplants.

Under his leadership, Dr. Quiroga was praised for enhancing the patient experience, strengthening employee retention, building a strong culture of trust and inclusion, and establishing deep community partnerships. 

“For more than 127 years, Children’s Mercy has been at the heart of our community, providing world-class pediatric care. Dr. Quiroga’s training as a pediatrician and his focus on research innovation, coupled with his demonstrated excellence as a health system leader, make him uniquely qualified to lead Children’s Mercy into the future,” said Donald Hall, Jr., Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors at Hallmark Cards and a member of the search committee. “Kansas City’s focus on healthcare and research is making this region a national leader in proving great health outcomes for our community as well as creating high value jobs.  I’m thrilled that Dr. Quiroga will be at the helm of Children’s Mercy at this exciting time for our region.”

Prior to his role as President, Dr. Quiroga held numerous leadership positions at Corewell Health, including Chief Medical Officer, Ambulatory & Population Health. Dr. Quiroga received his Doctor of Medicine at Universidad Del Rosario in Bogota, Colombia. At Johns Hopkins Hospital, he completed a clinical clerkship in neurology and pediatric neurology, as well as a research clerkship in pediatric oncology. He completed his residency at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and pediatric nephrology fellowship at Montefiore Children’s Hospital in New York City.

“This is a dream come true! I am truly honored to join this amazing team at Children’s Mercy,” said Dr. Quiroga. “I have watched Children’s Mercy from afar and have been inspired by the excellence in pediatric clinical care and groundbreaking research. I have long admired Children’s Mercy and the impressive, caring and committed talent that makes this hospital system world-class. Joining a team that is brimming with excellence, as well as a community that is so deeply supportive of the research and care delivered to children, is truly energizing. Together, we will continue to live out the purpose of Children’s Mercy – to create a world of well-being for every child we serve. My family and I cannot wait to make the move to such a compassionate, forward-thinking community.”

Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE, current President and CEO of Children’s Mercy will stay on through January 2025 to ensure a seamless transition.

“It has been an honor to serve as President & CEO of one of the finest children’s health systems in the country. Dr. Quiroga is the right leader to take Children’s Mercy into its next chapter of growth,” said Paul Kempinski. “I applaud the search committee and the Board of Directors for this excellent decision and look forward to cheering on the continued growth and success of Children’s Mercy.”

Please watch here for a message from Dr. Quiroga and Children’s Mercy leaders.

Después de una búsqueda exhaustiva a nivel nacional, Children’s Mercy Kansas City anunció hoy el nombramiento de Alejandro Quiroga (Ale – pronunciado ‘A-li Kwee-rah-gah'), M.D., MBA, como el nuevo presidente y director ejecutivo, a partir del 2 de enero de 2025. El Dr. Quiroga viene a Children’s Mercy de Corewell Health, el sistema de salud más grande en el estado de Michigan, donde se desempeñó como presidente de Corewell Health West.

«Estoy encantado de darle la bienvenida al Dr. Quiroga, un nefrólogo pediátrico y líder inspirador con una sólida mentalidad de investigación, como el nuevo presidente y director ejecutivo de Children’s Mercy. Nosotros sabíamos que el Dr. Quiroga era el candidato ideal para Children’s Mercy. Se destacó por su impresionante experiencia dirigiendo un exitoso sistema hospitalario en crecimiento con un espíritu de humildad, optimismo, innovación y una profunda pasión por el cuidado de los niños,» dijo Diane Gallagher, presidenta de la junta directiva de Children’s Mercy. «Estamos energizados por el próximo capitulo bajo el liderazgo del Dr. Quiroga».

Anteriormente, el Dr. Quiroja se superviso Corewell Health West, un sistema de salud integrado de $4,2 mil millones que incluye: Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital y 9 otros hospitales, más de 120 sitios ambulatorios, el hospital universitario más grande de Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, un personal médico de más de 4,000 proveedores con un grupo medico empleado de 2,000 proveedores, 38 programas de residencias y becas médicas, y un aclamado programa de investigación y cuaternario de $128+ millones que incluye trasplantes de corazón y pulmón para adultos, trasplantes de riñón pediátricos y trasplantes de médula ósea.

Bajo su liderazgo, el Dr. Quiroja fue elogiado por mejorar la experiencia del paciente, fortaleciendo la retención de empleados, creando una sólida cultura de confianza e inclusión, y estableciendo profundas asociaciones comunitarias.

«Por más de 127 anos, Children’s Mercy ha estado al corazón de la comunidad, brindando atención pediátrica de clase mundial. La experiencia del Dr. Quiroga como pediatra y su enfoque en la innovación en investigación, junto a su excelencia demostrada como líder de un sistema de salud, lo hacen únicamente calificado para dirigir a Children’s Mercy al futuro». Dijo Donald Hall, Jr., presidente ejecutivo de la junta directiva de Hallmark Cards y miembro del comité de búsqueda. «El enfoque de Kansas City en la atención medica hace a la ciudad un líder nacional en proveer excelentes resultados de salud para nuestra comunidad y crea empleos de alto valor. Estoy encantado de que el Dr. Quiroga este al frente de Children’s Mercy en este momento conmovedor para nuestra región».

Antes de ocupar el cargo de presidente, el Dr. Quiroga ocupó varios cargos de liderazgo en Corewell Health, incluyendo el de director médico y líder de Salud Ambulatoria y de la Población. El Dr. Quiroga recibió su Doctorado en Medicina de la Universidad Del Rosario en Bogotá, Colombia. Luego completo una pasantía clínica en neurología y neurología pediátrica en el Hospital Johns Hopkins. Así como una pasantía de investigación en oncología pediátrica. Completó su residencia en el Nicklaus Children’s Hospital y su especialización en nefrología pediátrica en el Montefiore Children’s Hospital en la ciudad de Nueva York.

«¡Esto es un sueño hecho realidad! Estoy verdaderamente honrado de unirme al equipo increíble de Children’s Mercy,» dijo Dr. Quiroja. «He visto a Children’s Mercy desde lejos y me siento inspirado por la excelencia que demuestran en su atención clínica pediátrica y su investigación innovadora.  Por mucho tiempo he admirado Children’s Mercy y su impresionante, cariñoso y comprometido personal que hace que este sistema hospitalario sea uno de clase mundial. Me siento energizado al unirme a un equipo que rebosa de excelencia, así como al unirme a una comunidad que apoya tan profundamente la atención brindada a los niños. Juntos continuaremos viviendo el propósito de Children’s Mercy: crear un mundo de bienestar para cada niño que servimos. Mi familia y yo estamos ansiosos por añadirnos a una comunidad tan compasiva y con visión del futuro como esta».

Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE,  el actual presidente y director ejecutivo permanecerá en el cargo hasta enero del 2025 para garantizar una transición efectiva.

«Ha sido un honor servir como presidente y director ejecutivo de uno de los mejores sistemas de salud infantil del país. El Dr. Quiroja es el líder adecuado para llevar Children’s Mercy hasta la próxima etapa de su crecimiento». dijo Paul Kempinski. «Aplaudo al comité de búsqueda y a la Junta Directiva por esta excelente decisión y espero poder animar el continuo crecimiento y éxito de Children’s Mercy».

Vea aquí para escuchar un mensaje del Dr. Quiroga y los lideres de Children’s Mercy.

“Our plans expand access to specialty care, improve early intervention and screening, increase the capacity of inpatient beds in the region, and invest in research to better understand and improve treatments,” said Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “The success of this initiative requires engagement and collaboration of the community, and we are grateful for the generous support thus far. We are excited about the impact we can achieve together in improving the well-being of many children.”

More than 15 million children need mental health services, but only 30-50 percent receive care. In the Kansas City region, those numbers are higher, with 40-50 percent going untreated.

“Thanks to the impact of over 3,200 community champions we have secured $120 million to-date, making significant strides in one short year by expanding access to pediatric mental health services at an astonishing pace,” Jenea Oliver, PhD, Children’s Mercy Chief Development Officer said. “This $17 million matching gift gets us one step closer to fully funding our Illuminate plan, impacting more than 80,000 kids over the next five years in desperate need of mental health services.”

The impact of the generosity of community champions is already making a difference – rapidly increasing the types of mental health services available to local families:

• This week the new Mental Wellness Campus in Olathe opens 48 beds dedicated to kids in need of in-patient care. 
• The Children’s Mercy Eating Disorders Clinic has eliminated wait times for families and expanded care for Avoidance/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (AFRID) – the only consolidated program in the region to offer medical treatment, nutrition services and therapy for ARFID.
• The Depression and Anxiety in Youth (DAY) Clinic at Children’s Mercy Adele Hall Campus has seen a more than 60% improvement in both anxiety and depression scores of patients.
• A pilot program embedding behavioral health specialists in primary care practices across the Kansas City metro is transforming wait times from months to minutes.

“We are starting to see the impact of Illuminate, but the need is still significant, and we must continue to work toward meeting that need – families are depending on us,” said Rebecca Johnson, PhD, Children’s Mercy Director of Developmental and Behavioral Health. “In 2023, Children’s Mercy provided care to nearly 4,000 children with acute mental health needs in our emergency department. We are hopeful that the new Olathe Mental Wellness Campus, combined with new acute care services currently under construction, will reduce the time kids in crisis spend in our ED, or avoid it altogether. These acute care initiatives paired with our other new programs will do so much to improve care for youth in crisis because we will be able to intervene sooner.”

The Illuminate project includes four strategies and 14 projects, of which two are complete, seven have been initiated and three more will begin construction this Spring. Learn more at childrensmercy.org/illuminate. 

 In 2023 alone, 4,000 children and teens visited Children’s Mercy’s Emergency Room (ER) with behavioral health challenges. Of those, 20% required hospitalization for inpatient mental health treatment, which can be difficult to find in the Kansas City area due to community needs significantly outweighing bed availability. From 2019-2021, the National Institutes of Health reported a significant increase in ER visits for adults experiencing suicidality, substance use overdoses and mental health crises. This new mental health campus will work to address those trends in our region.

 “This new hospital is going to transform people’s lives, and for many people, it will be lifesaving,” said Kimberly O’Connor-Soule, LSCSW, President, Children’s Mercy + Camber Mental Health. “Children and adults experiencing a deeply vulnerable and difficult time in their life will receive treatment in a safe, therapeutic, and uplifting environment that is free of judgment and focused on a whole-person approach to care to restore hope and celebrate each step forward.”

 The new world-class facility will serve as an inpatient mental health campus, featuring 48 pediatric beds (ages 6 to 18) and 24 adult beds (ages 18 and older) in fully separate units. It has six interior and exterior courtyards, large dayrooms, and dining and activity spaces. The healing environment is centered on client and staff safety, supportive care and treatment spaces, and client wellness. Clients can expect bright open spaces, calming design and the highest quality of clinical and holistic care.

 “We are celebrating the power of collaboration and community,” said Jason Hooper, MSW, President and CEO, KVC Health Systems. “I am humbled and deeply grateful for the hundreds of people who have supported this effort and who have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life as quickly as possible to help more people. This is a beacon of hope for those who are struggling and it’s a renewed commitment to the wellbeing of our communities.”

Patients may be struggling with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, the impacts of trauma and other mental health conditions. Clients will move around the campus throughout the day to experience therapies like recreation, art, and music, with opportunities to connect with nature. A child’s average stay is five to seven days, while for adults, an average stay is eight to 12 days. The goal is to stabilize the crisis a client is experiencing as soon and as safely as possible while teaching them how the brain works, teaching emotion regulation and coping skills, and offering the support and resources needed to continue outpatient treatment in their home communities.

“This collaboration underscores our collective dedication to expanding capacity and delivering essential mental health resources to the youth in our region,” said Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE, President and CEO, Children’s Mercy. “Many children have endured extended wait times in the emergency department due to a lack of available beds in the community and we are optimistic that this new campus will significantly reduce the time children spend in crisis waiting for the appropriate care that is needed.”

The new hospital was made possible by generous contributions from the Sunderland Foundation, the State of Kansas, Fore the Kids Foundation, Kao Family Foundation and many caring individuals.    

“Like much of the nation, Kansas is facing a mental health crisis,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The Children’s Mercy and Camber Mental Health Wellness Campus will provide the critical resources and care that young people in Kansas and surrounding states need to overcome these challenges.” 

“It is truly inspiring to witness the hard work and commitment of everyone involved in making this vision for an innovative new mental health hospital for adults and children a reality,” said Kent Sunderland, Chairman, The Sunderland Foundation.  “We’re proud to join KVC Health Systems, Children’s Mercy and many other donors to create hope and healing for thousands of families each year.”

Children’s Mercy + Camber Mental Health is proud to collaborate with JE Dunn Construction as the design-builder and Hoefer Welker as the architect and interior designer on this innovative inpatient hospital and mental wellness campus.

For more information, please visit cmcmentalhealth.org

Jennifer Watts, M.D., Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician, Chief Patient Progression Medical Officer and Chief Emergency Management Medical Officer at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, has been honored with the Missouri Hospital Association’s Visionary Leadership Award. The award, established in 1999, recognizes hospital executives who have taken innovative approaches to managing the health of the communities they serve. The award was presented on Nov. 14 at MHA’s 102nd Annual Convention in Kansas City, Mo.

“As a physician and leader, Dr. Jennifer Watts runs toward challenges,” said Jon D. Doolittle, MHA President and CEO. “Her commitment to integrating pediatric emergency preparedness into overall preparedness, and her vision for managing the overall pediatric care capacity regionally have benefited not only Children’s Mercy Kansas City, but the broader community of hospitals and pediatric care stakeholders that serve children.”

As an emergency physician at Children’s Mercy, challenging situations are an important part of Dr. Watts’ job. However, her lifesaving work extends well beyond the emergency department — she leads teams that manage pediatric emergency preparedness locally and statewide, and coordinates overall pediatric care capacity regionally.

Dr. Watts leads the Patient Progression Hub that identifies and manages pediatric care capacity throughout a multistate region. The hub is a hospital operations center that uses predictive analytics and real-time information to optimize care progression and coordination from preadmission to discharge. Deferrals decreased 94% in the first seven months after the hub opened — from 198 to 11 — while delays decreased 86% and ED boarding by 99%. The system also reduces canceled surgeries and pediatric intensive care unit transfer times. These improvements mean better access for pediatric patients.

In her role as an emergency response leader for pediatric care in the Kansas City region, and in coordination with the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Watts has prioritized integration of pediatrics into planning and response. Her efforts to build a stronger system were apparent on Feb. 14, where she was on site and delivered pediatric lifesaving care after the shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs’ victory parade.

“Dr. Watts and her team meticulously plan and train for mass-casualty events. While the hope is to never implement these plans, their preparation was instrumental in saving lives,” said Stephanie Meyer, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Children’s Mercy. “Her exceptional leadership in a chaotic situation enabled the team to respond efficiently, providing critical emergency medical care to everyone that day, including several children.”

A video honoring Dr. Watts is available here.

“This grant will help us create a living lab to advance digital clinical pathways using smart home technology,” said Brian Lancaster, Sr. Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Children’s Mercy. “By enabling proactive notifications, remote monitoring and better insights into triggers, we will be able to provide families with real-time information and equip clinicians with data-driven tools for more personalized and proactive care.”

Children’s Mercy was named a recipient in the Children’s Health Innovation Award category, which recognizes highly innovative, mission-critical projects accelerating children’s health innovation using advanced cloud services such as generative AI. Children’s Mercy will receive a combination of funding and AWS computing credits, along with implementation support from technical specialists. Proposals were considered based on several criteria, including the innovative and unique nature of the project, impact on mission-critical goals, and clearly defined outcomes and milestones.

"We are thrilled to announce this inaugural cohort of recipients pursuing groundbreaking advancements in children's health, pediatric care, and research enabled by the AWS Cloud," said Dave Levy, head of worldwide public sector at AWS. "From applications of generative AI to enable precision care in pediatric genomics, to AI-powered tools for physicians that will provide access to more data insights than ever before, these organizations have audacious plans to improve children's health outcomes on a global scale. We're excited to work closely with them to realize these goals with cloud technology."

For more information on the AWS IMAGINE Grant, visit aws.amazon.com/IMAGINE-grant

This pilot program builds on the work the Biden Cancer Moonshot has led to ensure that children and families facing cancer have equitable resources and access to diagnosis, treatment, research, and survivorship care. As part of the Biden Cancer Moonshot, the Biden-Harris Administration revived the White House Childhood Cancer Forum, backed and then the President signed the Childhood Cancer STAR Reauthorization Act to increase funding for childhood cancer research, and the Administration is actively working to implement the Research to Accelerate Cures and Equity or RACE for Children Act to identify and approve precision pediatric drugs quickly.
 
Most recently, in recognition of September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Biden Cancer Moonshot hosted the White House Roundtable on State Advocacy for Childhood Cancer, bringing together a diverse set of federal and state policymakers, health care experts, and childhood cancer advocates from across the country. Roundtable participants developed strategies and shared best practices that maximize state programs like cancer control plans and Medicaid to deliver new resources and support for families facing childhood cancer and developed plans to implement successful strategies to improve childhood cancer outcomes.
 
Since day one, the Biden-Harris Administration has been closely tracking and mitigating manufacturing and supply chain issues, with efforts underway to prevent future drug shortages and promote resilient supply chains. Last summer, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy convened leaders from across the generic oncology drug supply chain, including patient advocates, caregivers, and health care providers, to hear directly from those who are working on the ground to get lifesaving medicines into the hands of those who need them. In April, the Department of Health and Human Services released a white paper outlining policy steps to prevent future drug shortages, including proposing the establishment of a new Manufacturer Resiliency Assessment Program and a new Hospital Resilient Supply Program.

For the first time in more than a decade, this year’s rankings included a new specialty – Pediatric and Adolescent Behavioral Health. Children’s Mercy is featured as one of the top 50 programs in the country. All programs receive equal recognition in this inaugural year. This is a testament to all the work being done to address the mental health needs of children and teens in our community.

Six Children’s Mercy specialties rank among the top 25 nationally this year, with the Nephrology team ranking #9. The Neonatology team made a big jump to #11 up from #48 last year, and Cardiology and Heart Surgery jumped from #43 to #26.

Children’s Mercy specialties’ rankings:

·        Nephrology (#9)

·        Neonatology (#11)

·        Urology (#20 tie)

·        Gastroenterology & GI Surgery (#21 tie)

·        Neurology & Neurosurgery (#21)

·        Diabetes & Endocrinology (#23)

·        Cardiology & Heart Surgery (#26)

·        Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (#28)

·        Orthopedics (#35)

·        Cancer (#39)

·        Behavioral Health (Top 50)

“Being among the top pediatric hospitals nationally is worth celebrating,” said Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE, president and CEO of Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “Children’s Mercy finished first in Missouri and tied for third place in the Midwest region, which includes more than 40 hospitals across 13 states. The rankings are a true testament to our team’s hard work, expertise and dedication to the patients and families we serve.”

In surveying nearly 200 pediatric centers, U.S. News gathered clinical and operation data. This data was then combined with results from a reputational survey in which board-certified pediatric specialists were asked where they would send the sickest children in their specialty.

Those pediatric specialties consist of: behavioral health; cancer; cardiology and heart surgery; diabetes and endocrinology; gastroenterology and GI surgery; neonatology; nephrology; neurology and neurosurgery; orthopedics, pulmonology and lung surgery and urology.   

The full rankings and methodology are available at www.usnews.com/childrenshospitals.

The 2024 Executive Summary and Full Report are provided here: https://paamovewithus.org/us-report-card-on-physical-activity-for-children-and-youth/  

The grade was derived from National Survey of Children’s Health and National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data that showed: 

• Only 20% to 28% of 6- to 17-year-olds meet the 60 minutes of daily physical activity recommended by the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
• The proportion of children who meet the physical activity guidelines has decreased slightly since 2016, when these data were first available.
• Physical activity levels decline with age: 26% to 42% of 6- to 11-year-olds meet the physical activity guidelines; 15% of 12- to 17-year-olds meet the physical activity guidelines.
• The most notable declines over previous years are for rates of sports participation and rates of meeting recommendations for limiting screen time.  

The Report Card synthesizes the best available data from multiple nationally representative surveys to provide a comprehensive evaluation of physical activity among children and youth. It covers 11 indicators, individual state data, and recommendations for how grades can be improved. A letter grade is assigned to each indicator based on the evidence. Each grade reflects how well the United States is succeeding at providing children and youth opportunities and/or support for physical activity. 

Findings from the 2024 Report Card, the fifth iteration in the series that started in 2014, highlight the need for programs and policies to combat the rise in societal factors that interfere with children’s physical activity and healthy development.   

“Children’s physical activity is highly influenced by factors within our communities,” said Jordan Carlson, PhD, Professor of Pediatrics at Children’s Mercy Kansas City and Chair of the 2024 United States Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. “Human bodies were designed to move and be active, but modern society has made life more sedentary. We need to reengineer our environments and routines to build activity back in. This means providing more opportunities for children to be active that are safe and enjoyable. Policy makers and other community leaders can support children’s health by carefully considering the important role all sectors of society play in removing barriers to physical activity.” 

The report card is an advocacy tool that provides accountability and a call-to-action for decision-makers regarding how parents, teachers, health professionals, community leaders and policy makers can implement new initiatives, programs and policies to improve the physical activity levels and health of children and youth.  

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 2021 more than 40% of school-aged children and adolescents had at least one chronic health condition such as asthma or obesity. In 2022, a report published in JAMA Pediatrics found that nearly one in three adolescents now meet the criteria for prediabetes and the rate among 12- to 19-year-olds had more than doubled from 11% to 28% between 1999 and 2018.  

 The National Physical Activity Plan, which is also part of the Physical Activity Alliance, includes recommended strategies for strengthening the support our communities provide for physical activity. 

 “The National Physical Activity Plan provides a roadmap for increasing physical activity in the U.S. population,” said National Physical Activity Plan Chair-Elect and Director of the Institute for the Study of Youth Sports at Michigan State University Karin Pfeiffer, PhD, FACSM, FNAK. “In particular, the Education and Sport sectors frequently engage in addressing youth physical activity. One example of work that could have tangible impact is to simply increase the access to playing youth sports. A recent study showed that if we were to increase youth sports participation to the level of the Healthy People 2030 goal, it could save the nation $80 billion in direct medical costs and productivity losses and deliver more than 1.8 million more quality years of life to Americans.” 

 Physical Activity Alliance President and Executive Director of NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation Pam Watts, CAE, said, “Improving the health of our young people will require parents, teachers, health professionals, community leaders and policy makers working together to change the systems and settings impacting youth health. As the nation’s largest coalition dedicated to making the active choice the easy choice, PAA is the home for the collaborations and coordinated effort needed to reverse these trends and improve our physical activity grade.” 

 The United States Report Card Research Advisory Committee responsible for developing this report card is a sub-committee of the National Physical Activity Plan, an initiative of the Physical Activity Alliance.  

Support for development of the 2024 United States Report Card was provided by Children’s Mercy Kansas City and the Center for Children’s Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition.  

ABOUT THE PAA:  The Physical Activity Alliance (PAA) is the largest national coalition dedicated to advancing regular participation in physical activity, advocating for policy and system changes that make physical activity accessible for all. Formed in 2020 from three predecessor organizations, PAA has grown into a unified voice promoting active living as essential to public health. 

ABOUT THE NATIONAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PLAN:  The National Physical Activity Plan, an initiative of the PAA, aims to foster a national culture that supports physically active lifestyles and lead the population to achieve the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. The Plan itself is a comprehensive set of policies, programs, and initiatives that aim to increase physical activity in all segments of the American population. 

By analyzing how a patient’s genes affect responses to medications, Kiddose PGx aims to enhance medication efficacy, minimize potential side effects and improve treatment outcomes.

“This personalized approach is particularly beneficial in pediatric care, where individual responses to medications can vary significantly,” said Laura Ramsey, PhD, Section Chief for Individualized Therapeutics, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Children’s Mercy, and program co-lead. “By using pharmacogenetics, health care providers can make more informed decisions about medication choices, dosages, and treatment plans, ultimately leading to safer and more effective care for children.”

Pharmacogenetic testing has been part of clinical decision making at Children’s Mercy since 2014, but until now, tests had to be sent to external labs.

“We set out to create a way to do rapid testing in-house to provide answers to families more quickly, especially when time is of the essence,” said Joseph Alaimo, PhD, FACMG, Director, Clinical Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Children’s Mercy, and program co-lead. “When we encounter a child that isn’t responding to standard treatments, we can use this technology to identify genetic variants to gain a deeper understanding of how that patient may respond positively to other treatment plans.”

Combining pharmacogenetic test results with other information, such as a patient’s weight, age, overall health, lifestyle factors and family history, can help care teams determine the best medication approach. This application extends across various therapeutic areas, including:

• Patients with cancer: Personalized medication regimens based on genetic profiles can significantly impact treatment success and reduce adverse effects.
• Patients who have had or will have a transplant: Patients who have received organ transplants need precise medication management to prevent organ rejection by managing immunosuppressive therapy and supportive care  medications.
• Children with chronic illnesses: Kids with conditions such as epilepsy or heart disease benefit because a better understanding of genetic factors can help clinicians more accurately dose medications for the best potential efficacy.
• Patients being treated for developmental or behavioral disorders: Children and adolescents receiving treatment for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD can especially benefit from pharmacogenetic testing. Test results can help optimize medication choices and dosages to enhance efficacy and minimize side effects.

Stephani Stancil, PhD, APRN, Clinician Scientist, Divisions of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology at Children’s Mercy was the first to order the new test.

“The launch of Kiddose PGx is a significant win for our patients and clinicians,” said Dr. Stancil. “This test translates the latest in research into high quality clinical care, providing targeted information with actionable results within days instead of weeks.”

Jonathan Wagner, DO, Division Director of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology and Pediatric Cardiologist, added it is a resource that will help improve outpatient and inpatient precision-based care: “Whether it be the child with cardiovascular disease in the critical care setting, to optimal dosing of therapeutics for oncology patients, to those with depression or anxiety needing expedited drug dosing decisions in the clinic, Kiddose PGx will be a powerful tool for clinicians in our region.”  

More than 50 types of Leukodystrophy have been identified, which can cause a range of symptoms including seizures and intellectual impairment. Swift diagnosis and intervention are critical as most children diagnosed with Leukodystrophy die before their teenage years.

The research aims to address the diagnostic challenges by leveraging advanced genome sequencing technologies spearheaded by the Genomic Answers for Kids program (GA4K) at Children’s Mercy.

“We are using long-read genome sequencing (HiFi-GS) to uncover genetic variants that are not detectable with standard short-read sequencing to increase the diagnostic rate for complex cases,” said Tomi Pastinen, MD, PhD., Director, Genomic Medicine Center, Children’s Mercy and the Contract Principal Investigator (PI) of the study. “Collaborating with the other PIs, Dr. Josh Bonkowsky from the University of Utah and Dr. Geneviève Bernard from the RI-MUHC on this research underscores our global commitment to addressing rare disease in hopes of accelerating the delivery of crucial interventions and providing answers to families sooner.”

Co-investigators include Scott Younger, PhD, and Isabelle Thiffault, PhD, both of the Genomic Medicine Center at Children’s Mercy.

Dr. Pastinen will take the stage at this year’s RARE Advocacy Summit to share more on this research along with other GA4K updates, “Genomic Answers for Kids is leading the way in diagnosing kids with rare disease with over 8,000 children and total of 15,300 family members involved. We are excited to share this is the fourth NIH grant supporting the program to date,” Dr. Pastinen said.

Children’s Mercy Kansas City announced today that Dr. Douglas Rivard has been named Executive Vice President and Physician-in-Chief. 

With nearly two decades at Children’s Mercy, Dr. Rivard is a nationally recognized leader in pediatric interventional radiology. He has served in numerous leadership positions including as the Medical Chairman of Radiology for more than a decade, and as the Radiologist-in-Chief since 2012. Under his leadership, the radiology department has become one of the largest volume pediatric radiology departments in the country. 

“I have known Dr. Rivard for years and have witnessed firsthand that he embodies all of the aspects that make Children’s Mercy a longstanding leader in pediatrics. He is a universally respected amongst his peers, colleagues, and patients,” said Diane Gallagher, Chair of the Board at Children’s Mercy. “I can think of no better person for the role of Physician-in-Chief to lead Children’s Mercy into the future.”

Dr. Rivard’s academic journey began at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri. He then completed a Diagnostic Radiology Residency at Oklahoma State University Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma where he also served as Chief Radiology Resident from 2004-2005. The following year, he began his Pediatric Radiology/Pediatric Interventional Radiology Fellowship at Children’s Mercy.

Dr. Rivard is a Professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and holds adjunct faculty appointments at the University of Kansas School of Medicine and St. Louis University School of Medicine. He has clinical interest and expertise in pediatric interventional radiology with numerous publications as well as national/international lectures to his credit. 

“For the past several months, Dr. Rivard has been serving as Physician-in-Chief in an interim capacity and has shown without question that he is the right choice for the permanent position,” said Paul Kempinski, President & CEO of Children’s Mercy. “He embodies the values of Children’s Mercy, putting the children we serve at the center of every decision.”

In his role, Dr. Rivard will have oversight of the overall physician practice, clinical departments, key service lines, ambulatory clinics, Graduate Medical Education, Quality and Safety, and the Center of Wellbeing.

Using the Saphyr instrument developed by Bionano Genomics, Children’s Mercy is able to combine the capabilities of traditional cytogenetic testing including FISH, karyotyping, and microarray into a single, more efficient test by transforming lengthy DNA segments into distinct barcodes, that offer a more detailed and precise assessment of genomic structural variation.

“This cutting-edge technology has proven instrumental in diagnosing genetic disorders and cancers by identifying structural variants that standard of care tests may overlook,” said Carol Saunders, PhD, FACMG, Division Director, Clinical Genetics and Genomics, Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “Its application in the pediatric clinical setting allows us to enhance our understanding of complex diseases and identify genetic abnormalities that can help guide treatment plans.”

The team validated OGM by analyzing over 60 samples previously tested in the Clinical Genetics and Genomics Laboratory at Children’s Mercy.

John Herriges, PHD, FACMG, Assistant Director of the Cytogenetic Laboratory at Children’s Mercy led the validation project using OGM predominantly for bone marrow disorders, such as leukemia, with promising results.

“Many leukemias are defined by the presence of cytogenetic rearrangements. The technology’s ability to identify these rearrangements goes beyond what traditional cytogenetic technologies can do and allows us to identify novel rearrangements, which will lead to a better classification of our patient’s leukemias and hopefully improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Herriges.

Children’s Mercy hopes to expand the application to solid tumors and spearhead collaborative data sharing with other pediatric institutions underscoring its commitment to pioneering pediatric genomics and shaping the future of cancer treatment for children.

“As one of the first pediatric hospitals to adopt this technology, Children’s Mercy is at the forefront of enhancing our ability to understand and treat genetic conditions, offering hope and advanced care to young patients and their families,” said Dr. Saunders.

Individuals with CHD, the most common birth defect diagnosed in one in 100 births, are living longer. There are nearly 2 million adults in the United States living with one of many different types of congenital heart defects, ranging among simple, moderate, and complex.

“We are honored to receive this accreditation from the Adult Congenital Heart Association,” said Anthony Magalski, MD, cardiologist and medical director of Saint Luke’s Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program. “It shows the dedication of our team of experts to our patients and their heart health through every phase of their life.”

The Kansas City Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program has a 28-year history of caring for patients with congenital heart conditions. Both organizations represent renowned innovation, quality, and compassionate care. Their partnership formed from their mutual desire to care for and provide seamless advanced care for patients with congenital heart disease from childhood through adulthood. 

“We are excited to have achieved ACHA accreditation for the KCACHD program,” said Brian Birnbaum, MD, pediatric cardiologist at Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “As the only ACHA accredited program in Kansas or Missouri, we continue to showcase the great work done by both Children’s Mercy and St. Luke's in congenital heart disease care, the strong collaboration our programs have—and the ongoing commitment to lifelong treatment of congenital heart disease in this region.”

The Kansas City Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program received accreditation by meeting ACHA’s rigorous criteria around medical services and personnel requirements. The accreditation process was developed through a collaboration with doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, and ACHD patients.

“There are now more adults than children in the U.S. with CHD,” said Mark Roeder, President and CEO of ACHA. “Accreditation will elevate the standard of care and have a positive impact on the futures of those living with this disease. Coordination of care is key, and this accreditation program will make care more streamlined for ACHD patients, improving their quality of life.”

 There are now 53 ACHA ACHD Accredited programs throughout the United States.   

Diane Gallagher is Vice President, Civic & Community Initiatives, Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. She brings more than 30 years of leadership and communication and community relations experience.

Kevin Barth is Chairman & CEO, Kansas City Region, Commerce Bank, and EVP of Commerce Bancshares, Inc. He has more than 30 years of experience at Commerce Bank, overseeing strategic initiatives and growth.

“Our Board members guide Children’s Mercy in pursuing excellence in the delivery of safe, high-quality care to our patients and families,” said Children’s Mercy President and CEO Paul Kempinski, MS, FACHE. “Diane and Kevin have a long history of working in various ways with Children’s Mercy and are fully committed to improving the lives of children and their families through providing world-class clinical care and leading-edge research.” 

Children’s Mercy also welcomes Ashley McClellan, FACHE, MHA, MBA, DHA; Kevin Bryant, MBA; and Paul McLaughlin to its Board of Directors.

Ashley McClellan is CEO and founder of MedCurate, bringing 20 years of healthcare leadership experience in community, rural, specialty and quaternary hospitals, which includes serving in CEO roles at HCA Midwest Health – Research Medical Center, The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, and Medical City Lewisville.

Kevin Bryant is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Evergy. Bryant has served in an executive role at the energy company and its predecessor organizations (Great Plains Energy and KCP&L) for more than 18 years focused on strategy, treasury, finance, operations, and risk.

Paul E. McLaughlin is a retired attorney and private investor in Kansas City, Missouri. He has previously served as Vice Chair and Chair of the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors.

“We want to thank Bill Krueger for his 9 years of service to the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors,” said Diane Gallagher, Children’s Mercy, Board Chair. “Bill has provided strong leadership, and we are grateful that he will continue to contribute to this organization for an additional year. Our directors are committed to ensuring the well-being of the children of our community remains a top priority.”