Description

Position Summary: The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at Near North Health is a pivotal leadership role, overseeing all clinical and related activities within the health center. Reporting to the CEO, the CMO ensures high-quality, culturally competent primary care aligned with Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Standards. The role includes credential verification, provider staff recommendations to the CEO and Board Affairs Committee, and strategic collaboration across various sectors.
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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Implementing High-Quality Primary Care: Lead the delivery of person-centered, relationship-based primary care, tailored to community needs.
2. Clinical Leadership: Oversee clinical activities, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, focusing on preventive and coordinated care.
3. Policy Development and Implementation: Develop policies to enhance primary care quality and efficiency.
4. Staff Evaluation and Supervision: In addition to fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning, the CMO is responsible for the regular evaluation of staff performance and the supervision of clinical support staff. This involves setting clear performance standards, conducting performance reviews, providing constructive feedback, and identifying opportunities for professional development. The CMO will ensure that the clinical team, including support staff, is working efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the health center's standards and goals. This role also includes mentorship and guidance to support the professional growth and development of the clinical team.
5. Quality Assurance and Improvement: The CMO, in a joint effort with the Director of Quality and Risk Management and the Director of Clinical Operations, is tasked with monitoring and improving patient care quality. This collaborative approach is crucial for identifying and addressing areas for improvement in patient safety, satisfaction, and operational efficiency. The CMO will coordinate with these key directors to develop, implement, and oversee quality improvement initiatives, ensuring the tracking and analysis of performance metrics. This team effort is essential for maintaining the highest standards in patient care and creating a responsive, excellence-driven healthcare environment at Near North Health.
6. Compliance and Accreditation: The CMO will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with a broad range of regulatory and accreditation standards, including but not limited to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) guidelines, the Joint Commission's accreditation standards, the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) requirements, and other relevant healthcare regulations. This responsibility involves staying current with regulatory changes, leading the organization in implementing necessary adaptations, and ensuring that all aspects of clinical care and operations meet or exceed these established standards. The CMO will work closely with other departments, including Human Resources, to ensure organizational adherence to these regulations and to maintain the highest standards of healthcare delivery and patient safety.
7. Budgeting and Resource Allocation: Manage clinical budget in line with organizational and clinical goals.
8. Leading Innovation in Clinical Care: Spearhead the development and implementation of innovative clinical care models, including value-based care, team-based care, and other emerging approaches. Focus on aligning these models with the goal of improving patient outcomes, enhancing care coordination, and optimizing resource utilization. Stay informed of and responsive to the latest trends and advancements in healthcare delivery, ensuring that Near North Health remains at the forefront of delivering high-quality, efficient, and person centered care.
9. Leading Clinical Educational Partnerships: The CMO is responsible for leading and advancing teaching and training initiatives, with a special emphasis on fostering partnerships with academic institutions and community organizations. This involves creating and nurturing collaborative relationships with medical schools, universities, and other educational entities to develop innovative teaching programs and clinical training opportunities. The CMO will also engage with community partners to understand local health education needs and incorporate these insights into the training curriculum. By working closely with these partners, the CMO ensures that the training programs are comprehensive, up-to-date, and relevant, preparing healthcare professionals to meet the current and future needs of the community. These efforts are key in promoting continuous learning and development among the provider staff, enhancing their skills and competencies to provide high-quality patient care.
10. Strategic Staffing Initiatives: The CMO plays a vital role in developing and implementing strategies for the recruitment and retention of high-caliber clinical staff, with a particular focus on professionals who are dedicated to serving underserved communities. This involves:
• Targeted Recruitment: Identifying and attracting skilled healthcare professionals who are not only qualified but also align with the mission and values of Near North Health. This includes leveraging relationships with medical schools, residency programs, and professional networks to source candidates who have a passion for community health.
• Cultivating a Supportive Environment: Creating a work environment that supports the professional growth and well-being of the clinical staff. 
• Retention Strategies: Working with HR, leadership and the Board in implementing effective retention strategies that focus on job satisfaction, career development, and recognition of staff contributions. Regularly assessing staff needs and feedback, and addressing challenges proactively to maintain a motivated and engaged workforce.
• Promoting Community Involvement: Encouraging staff involvement in community outreach and advocacy efforts, strengthening their connection to the mission and the communities served.
11. Privileging and Credentialing Oversight: Verify provider staff credentials and recommend qualified candidates to the CEO and Board Affairs Committee.
12. Community-Based Research: Engage in community-based research to inform and improve clinical practices and health outcomes. Lead Research Committee.
13. Representation in Professional Groups and Agencies: Represent Near North Health in meetings with professional groups and governmental agencies, as required by the CEO.
14. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Educational Background: MD or DO degree.

Licensure: Active medical license in the State of Illinois with board certification in a primary care specialty.

Experience: Extensive clinical and leadership experience, preferably in primary care or community health.

Skills: Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and collaborative skills.

Additional Considerations:

Commitment to Underserved Populations: Dedication to serving underserved communities.

Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of healthcare regulations specific to FQHCs.

Qualifications