Chicago, IL - April 11, 2012 - The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) has named Joseph J. Fifer, FHFMA, CPA, its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Fifer will assume the role in June 2012.
For the past 11 years, Fifer has been Vice President of Hospital Finance at Spectrum Health, located in Grand Rapids, Mich. Fifer has been a keynote speaker on healthcare finance and reform for organizations including the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation and The Governance Institute. His industry insights have been featured in Forbes, Business Week, The Wall Street Journal, and many other leading publications. Fifer was Chair of the HFMA Board of Directors in 2006-2007.
"As a healthcare industry spokesman, a finance executive, and an HFMA leader, Joe has demonstrated a clear vision for the role that finance professionals play in improving the healthcare system," says HFMA 2011-12 Chair Gregory M. Adams, FHFMA. "I am confident that Joe will bring the same vision to his position as HFMA President and CEO." The HFMA Board chose Fifer after an extensive search by a professional recruitment firm overseen by a committee of HFMA volunteer leaders.
"Finance is in the spotlight as never before," says Fifer, "with healthcare organizations challenged to drive down unsustainable costs while improving quality. I am honored to assume this HFMA leadership role at a time when finance professionals can deliver significant industry improvement. HFMA is in an outstanding position to lead these changes because of the foundation built by strong staff leadership, board vision, and member commitment."
Fifer succeeds Richard L. Clarke, DHA, FHFMA, who is retiring after 26 years in HFMA's top staff position.
About HFMA
The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) provides the resources healthcare organizations need to achieve sound fiscal health in order to provide excellent patient care. With more than 38,000 members, HFMA is the nation's leading membership organization of healthcare finance executives and leaders. HFMA helps its members achieve results by providing education, analysis, and guidance, and creating practical tools and solutions that optimize financial management. The organization is a respected and innovative thought leader on top trends and challenges facing the healthcare finance industry. From addressing capital access to improved patient care to technology advancement, HFMA is an indispensable resource on healthcare finance issues. www.hfma.org
HFMA Contact
Jay Keltner
Healthcare Financial Management Association
(708) 492-3329
jkeltner@hfma.org