The face of medicine continues to change and become more diverse. However, a gender gap still exists in health care with women holding less than a quarter of leadership positions. To honor women in leadership positions in health care, the trade publication Modern Healthcare released its 2019 list of the “Top 25 Women Leaders” and the 10 “Women to Watch.”
These women leaders are developing policy, leading change and guiding health care delivery improvement across the U.S. The biennial program recognizes women in a variety of leadership roles, highlighting their administrative and professional accomplishments.
This year, AMA President Barbara L. McAneny, MD, was named one of the top 25 women leaders in health care, while AMA President-elect Patrice Harris, MD, was listed as one of the top 10 women to watch in health care.
“Having two AMA leaders being recognized in this manner showcases the strong and visible leadership we have at the AMA, the changing face of medicine, and the changing face of our organization,” said AMA Executive Vice President and CEO James L. Madara, MD.
The women on this list come from all industry sectors, including hospitals, health systems, physician organizations, insurance, government, vendors and supplier organizations, and patients’ rights groups. Each woman nominated:
- Serves in a role that is senior vice president or higher.
- Has a proven track record in promoting gender equity in the C-suite.
- Serves as a mentor to the next generation of leaders.
- Demonstrates significant achievements in helping their organization exceed strategic, financial and clinical goals.
Dr. McAneny was recognized for serving on the AMA board since 210 where she was chair from 2015 to 2016. In her private practice, and as founder and CEO of the New Mexico Cancer Center, she has been at the forefront of implementing alternative payment models for a coalition of cancer care providers.
Using a Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation Grant, Dr. McAneny developed a new care model that helps practices comply with MACRA. She is also a founding member and current board chair of the National Cancer Care Alliance.
As one of the top 10 women to watch, Dr. Harris was recognized for her role in the AMA’s Opioid Task Force to help reverse the nation's opioid epidemic. She was also honored for nationally raising awareness on the behavioral health crisis and for actively speaking out about ending gender bias.
