USACS NEWS
USACS shares news and information that keep you informed and demonstrate our commitment to efficiency and improved patient care and outcomes. A USACS representative is available for media inquiries.
Press Release
Nov 21, 2023
US ACUTE CARE SOLUTIONS NAMES INTERNAL LEADERS CHIEF CLINICAL OFFICER AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
CANTON, Ohio, November 21, 2023 — US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned integrated acute care practice, has named two internal leaders to new roles. Tina Latimer, MD, MBA, FACEP, has been named Chief Clinical Officer; and James Watson has been named Chief Financial Officer. Chief Clinical Officer, Dr. Latimer, has served as President of the group’s North Division since joining USACS in early-2022 from Alteon Health where she served as a regional medical director for nearly ten years. Dr. Latimer completed her emergency medicine residency at Johns Hopkins University and her medical degree at Albany Medical College. Dr. Latimer also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Latimer said, “As Chief Clinical Officer I’m excited to continue my work with our outstanding divisional and regional leaders, with whom I share a singular focus on improving the care we provide our patients and the support we provide our hospital partners.” Chief Financial Officer, James Watson, joined USACS in its earliest days in 2016 and has guided its growth as Chief Development Officer. A promoter of USACS’ commitment to an in-network payer strategy, Mr. Watson is responsible for successfully navigating the group through the implementation of the No Surprises Act. Mr. Watson is a graduate of Dartmouth College with a degree in engineering. Mr. Watson said, “In joining USACS in 2016, I was immediately drawn to the notion that a physician-owned practice at scale was the ideal model for thriving in this ever-evolving industry. As CFO, I’ll be excited to ensure what we’ve created together endures for generations to come of physicians, patients and hospital partners.” Chris Hummer, USACS Chief Executive Officer, said, “These two leaders represent the deep bench of internal talent at USACS, with exactly the background, experience and enthusiasm to keep USACS on its track of sustainable growth and industry-leading clinician support and clinical quality.” The group’s current President and Chief Clinical Officer, Matt Patlovany, MD, is leaving at the end of the year and Tony Martin, Chief Financial Officer, is stepping down at the end of the month. Mr. Hummer continued, “We owe a great deal to Matt and Tony. They put their heart and soul into our mission to care for patients, and many millions of those patients are better for it. All of us at USACS wish them well.” About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately 10 million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 13, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Recognized by the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program
US Acute Care Solutions Recognized by the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program CANTON, Ohio, October 13, 2023 — US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, has been recognized by the American Medical Association’s (AMA) Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program for its outstanding commitment to caring for physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs). The Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program aims to encourage and guide organizations with over 100 physicians and/or APPs to engage in strategies to enhance physician and APP satisfaction, therefore reducing occurrences of burnout. As a physician-owned practice, USACS emphasizes the well-being of its more than 6,000 physicians and APPs, allowing them to focus on fulfilling the group’s mission: to care for patients. USACS stands committed to developing innovative practices and programs to provide clinicians with every tool necessary to deliver high-quality patient care while excelling in both their personal and professional lives. “We continually seek out tactics and resources to support our physicians and APPs,” said Jayne Kendall, MD, MBA, FACEP, CDE, CPE, Chief of Clinician Engagement at USACS. “The demands of the medical field are taxing both physically and mentally, so it is critical to be ahead of the curve when it comes to addressing burnout. With industry-leading programs and benefits – including paid parental leave and our 10% company-funded 401(k) contribution – we ensure our talented clinicians are supported in every aspect of their lives, empowering them to bring their ‘whole self’ to work as we care for patients on the front lines.” As a member of the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program, USACS will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded health systems across the nation to share evidence-based solutions to burnout. The organization will also gain access to a plethora of established resources to incorporate into existing practices and protocols. “This is an outstanding opportunity for our organization,” said Christopher Ziebell, MD, FACEP, Director of Behavioral Health Innovation at USACS. “Being selected as one of the only physician practices amongst health system leaders speaks volumes about who we are and our commitment to serving both our patients and each other. Our leaders are looking forward to learning and exploring all the program has to offer.” About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately 10 million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 6, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Commits to Environmental Sustainability by Signing US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge
US Acute Care Solutions Commits to Environmental Sustainability by Signing US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge CANTON, Ohio, October 6, 2023 – US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, is proud to announce its official commitment to environmental sustainability through the signing of the US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge. The Climate Pledge represents a step toward addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By signing, USACS commits to taking concrete actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize waste, and foster environmentally friendly practices within its operations. This initiative aligns with USACS' mission to provide exceptional patient care while prioritizing the health and well-being of communities across the nation, and ultimately across the globe. "At USACS, we recognize the vital role healthcare organizations play in protecting both individual and planetary health," said Chris Hummer, CEO of USACS. "By joining the Climate Pledge, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and demonstrate our dedication to being responsible stewards of the environment. We are proud to contribute to the collective effort in combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come." Dr. Marc Futernick, emergency medicine physician and member of the USACS National Clinical Governance Board, expressed his enthusiasm about the pledge stating, "As medical professionals, we have a duty to prioritize the health of our patients and communities in all aspects, including environmental stewardship. By signing the Climate Pledge, USACS underscores its commitment to the well-being of our patients, our colleagues, and our planet. This initiative will further inspire positive change within the healthcare industry and beyond." USACS is dedicated to implementing sustainable practices across its network. The organization will work diligently to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and invest in eco-friendly technologies to create a more environmentally responsible healthcare system. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 5, 2023
Dr. Jesse Pines Named Recipient of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD, Award for Excellence in Health Policy
Dr. Jesse Pines Named Recipient of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD, Award for Excellence in Health Policy CANTON, Ohio, October 5, 2023 – US Acute Care Solutions (USACS) today announced Jesse Pines, MD, MBA, FACEP, has received the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr. Award for Excellence in Health Policy. The Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD Award, named for ACEP’s executive director from 1982-2003, is presented annually to a member who has made a significant contribution to achieving ACEP’s health policy objectives, or who has demonstrated outstanding skills, talent, and commitment as an administrative or political leader. Dr. Pines, a distinguished professional in the field of medicine, currently holds the esteemed position of Chief of Clinical Innovation at USACS, and is a board-certified, practicing emergency physician. With a keen focus on advancing healthcare practices, he spearheads numerous initiatives encompassing alternative payment models, telemedicine, research, technology innovation, and other cutting-edge programs. Additionally, Dr. Pines assumes the role of Director for the prestigious USACS Fellowship in Clinical Innovation, which is entering its third year. Leveraging his extensive expertise, he serves as a Professor of Emergency Medicine at Drexel University and as a Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine at George Washington University (GW). Prior to his role at USACS, Dr. Pines held various leadership and teaching positions at GW and the University of Pennsylvania, playing a pivotal role in enhancing emergency care practices. Notably, he served as the principal investigator for Urgent Matters, a prominent program dedicated to disseminating best practices in emergency care. He also served as a Senior Expert at the Brookings Institution, and a Senior Advisor to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation Center. He was a physician consultant to the National Quality Forum, focusing on quality measurement for nearly 12 years. “It is an honor to receive this prestigious award,” said Dr. Pines. “I sincerely value the opportunities I have been afforded given my involvement in ACEP and through my role at USACS. Contributing to the advancement of emergency medicine remains a driving force in my career. I hope to continue making an impact on behalf of all my colleagues and my patients.” Dr. Pines' educational journey is marked by exceptional achievements and a commitment to excellence. He obtained a bachelor's degree in the biological basis of behavior and a master's degree in clinical epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania. Furthering his pursuit of knowledge, Dr. Pines successfully acquired both a medical degree and an MBA from Georgetown University. He completed a residency in emergency medicine at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, followed by a fellowship in research at the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, Dr. Pines has enriched his pedagogical skills by successfully completing the Master Teacher Leadership Development Certificate Program at GW School of Education Human Development. His extensive educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities within the healthcare landscape. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
General News
Sep 28, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Executes a Multi-Year Agreement with Aetna, A CVS Health Company
US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the largest physician-owned emergency medicine and hospitalist practice in the United States, executed a multi-year agreement with Aetna, a CVS Health company on August 1, 2023. Under the new contract, Aetna's Commercial and Medicare members will have in-network access to acute care services delivered by approximately 6,000 USACS clinicians at more than 350 hospitals in communities spanning 24 states. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ###
Press Release
Jul 20, 2023
Houston Methodist Selects US Acute Care Solutions as System-Wide Provider of Emergency Medicine Services
Houston Methodist Selects US Acute Care Solutions as System-Wide Provider of Emergency Medicine Services CANTON, Ohio, July 20, 2023 – Effective July 19, 2023, US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, has been named the exclusive provider of emergency medicine services across the renowned Houston Methodist system. Locations include: Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Houston Methodist West Houston Hospital Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Cinco Ranch Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Cypress Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Kirby Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Voss Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Pearland Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Sienna Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Spring Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – The Woodlands Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Magnolia Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – League City Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Deer Park With a reputation for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, Houston Methodist has been named the number one hospital system in Texas and one of the premier systems in the United States consistently for many years. USACS is honored to partner with Houston Methodist in this significant capacity. Under the agreement, the physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) currently caring for patients in the emergency departments of Houston Methodist will remain in their roles, and all full-time physicians will be offered the opportunity to become equity owners of USACS. This continuity of care will ensure patients maintain access to their trusted clinical team, while empowering the system’s physicians to secure their long-term future as physician-owners. Dr. Matt Patlovany, President and Chief Clinical Officer of USACS, commented on the opportunity to serve the Houston Methodist system, stating, "As a native Texan, I am acutely aware of the prestige and importance of Houston Methodist within our state. I am incredibly excited to lead this talented team of physicians and APCs in providing exceptional emergency medicine services to patients across the system. Our physician-owned and led approach puts patients at the forefront of every decision we make, and our focus will be on delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient who walks through our doors." "We are pleased to partner with USACS as the provider of emergency medicine services for our entire system. We continue to provide the high-quality service to our patients and community and believe this collaboration will enhance our emergency department services, further strengthening our ability to deliver exceptional care to our patients,” said Wayne Voss, CEO, Houston Methodist West Hospitaland executive sponsor of the hospital system’s emergency department council. Dominic J. Bagnoli, MD, FACEP, FAAEM, Executive Chair of the USACS Board of Directors said, “USACS was formed to bring the best groups in the country together to form a perpetual physician-owned organization in acute care services. We are focused on partnering with the best health systems in the country – Houston Methodist and the clinicians in the system are perfect partners in our long-term strategic vision.” USACS brings a wealth of expertise and resources to Houston Methodist, including advanced clinical protocols, innovative technology solutions, and a commitment to continuous quality improvement. This partnership will enhance the emergency medicine services provided throughout the Houston Methodist system, ensuring patients receive timely and effective care when they need it most. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. About Houston Methodist Houston Methodist is one of the nation’s leading health systems and academic medical centers. The health system consists of eight hospitals: Houston Methodist Hospital, its flagship academic hospital in the Texas Medical Center, six community hospitals and one long-term acute care hospital throughout the Greater Houston metropolitan area. Houston Methodist also includes a research institute; a comprehensive residency program; international patient services; freestanding comprehensive care, emergency care and imaging centers; and outpatient facilities. Houston Methodist employs approximately 30,000 people and had more than 1.9 million outpatient visits and more than 138,000 admissions in 2022. U.S. News World Report has named Houston Methodist Hospital the Best Hospital in Texas for 11 years in a row. Houston Methodist is the No. 1 hospital in Texas and No. 15 in the nation. For more information about Houston Methodist, visit houstonmethodist.org. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and On Health. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Jun 23, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Names Dr. Amit Kalaria a Regional Vice President of its Northeast Division
CANTON, Ohio, June 23, 2023 –Effective July 1, 2023, US Acute Care Solutions (USACS) has named Amit Kalaria, MD, a Regional Vice President of its Northeast Division. Dr. Kalaria has held several leadership positions throughout his 17 years with USACS, most recently overseeing 14 service lines as the System Medical Director of Integrated Acute Care Services at Adventist Healthcare. As Regional Vice President, he will lead and support, both clinically and administratively, the teams and leaders of Adventist Healthcare, Meritus, and UPMC Western Maryland. “Dr. Kalaria’s peers have recognized him as a strong, decisive leader and appreciate his clear and concise approach to problem solving,” said Martin Brown, MD, FACEP, President of USACS’ Northeast Division. “He is an accomplished physician leader, and I am excited to have him join our division in this elevated capacity.” “I am honored to step into this new role,” shared Dr. Kalaria. “I look forward to working with our exceptional team of physicians, APPs, and support staff to continue providing high-quality, patient-centered care to our communities.” Dr. Kalaria is a board-certified physician leader with a track record of spearheading successful initiatives to improve the quality of care delivered across multiple service lines. He is an active member of several committees, serving as President’s Council Board Member for Adventist Healthcare, and was the physician member of both the Quality and Patient Safety Committee and the Utilization Management Committee at Western Maryland Health Systems. He also served as a member of the USACS Regional Clinical Governance Board. Dr. Kalaria earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and received his medical degree from Michigan State University. He completed his emergency medicine residency at Northwestern University where he served as Chief Resident. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and hospitalist physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately nine million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ###