L E A D E R S H I P L E A D E R S H I P
2019 Healthcare
Physicians of the Year
KEVIN N. FOSTER, MD Arizona Burn Center at Maricopa Integrated Health System Under Dr. Foster’s leadership, the Arizona Burn Center boasts a 98 percent survival rate, even though surgeons see some of the most complex medical cases, ranging from severe burns to rare skin disorders like flesh-eating bacteria and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Dr. Foster also is a national leader in advancing burn care for patients everywhere. He pioneered use of the ReCell “skin spray” to cover large surface burns at a time when it was under study by the FDA for approval in the United States. SAUL PEREA, MD | Terros Health Dr. Perea’s greatest joy is helping his patients at Terros Health – about half of whom are Spanish-speaking – find a path to recovery, whether it’s through psychiatric consultations, holistic treatment of the body and mind or helping teenagers kick addiction. To them, he is a partner, sharing bilingualism and a fierce determination to thrive. He creates a rapport and an environment of safety. And he connects with people, particularly the economically disadvantaged. His greatest reward: “seeing a smile on his patients’ faces and having them thank you,” he said. “That’s how you know you are making a difference.”
TIMOTHY BYRNE, MD Arizona Heart Hospital In 2016, Abrazo Community Health Network had a vision to make its Arizona Heart Hospital a destination center for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacements and other advanced cardiovascular care. Later that year, Byrne assumed the reins of Abrazo’s cardiac service line, overseeing strategy, programs, education, research and quality initiatives for Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital and its sister hospitals in greater Phoenix. Since then, Byrne has been at the helm of the hospital’s transformation, stepping up involvement in clinical trials, bringing in renowned caregivers who embrace his vision, and building out Abrazo’s six cardiovascular centers of excellence.
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MICHAEL RITCHEY, MD Phoenix Children’s Hospital As chief medical officer of Phoenix Children’s, Dr. Ritchey supervises the hospital system’s medical staff, oversees all patient safety initiatives, and ensures the quality of patient care. Never one to pat himself on the back, Dr. Ritchey’s staff are eager to innumerate the qualities that make him an exceptional physician – and the linchpin of Phoenix Children’s continuous improvements in patient outcomes. His humble and mild manner belies an unshakeable commitment to his work. Most recently, his focus on safety and quality helped Phoenix Children’s clench “Best Children’s Hospital” rankings in 10 out of 10 specialties.
SARA SALEK, MD Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Dr. Salek is chief medical officer of AHCCCS, which is Arizona’s Medicaid agency that offers health care programs to serve Arizona residents. Dr. Salek has introduced innovation in healthcare for Medicaid and dual patients in Arizona. She has influenced the state’s approach to managing opioid utilization, adult and pediatric care. Dr. Salek never forgets “it’s about the patient.” Her administration decisions are patient-centric. Her patient-centered approach gives birth to medical policies which are always in the best interest of the citizens of Arizona that receive care via AHCCCS.