New Information Technology Chief Will Link Communication on USC Health Sciences Campus

September 22, 2009

Mark D. Amey will join the University of Southern California (USC) as chief information officer for several units, effective Sept. 21. Amey will lead development and implementation of information technology (IT) strategic plans and procedures for USC University Hospital and USC Norris Cancer Hospital, the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the Doctors of USC physician group.  

One of Amey’s top priorities is creating a seamless information delivery system among these entities, enhancing faculty and staff communication and patient care delivery.

Amey previously served as regional CIO and vice president of Ascension Health Information Services in Tucson, Ariz., and the Carondelet Health Network hospitals of Ascension Health. There he was responsible for regional leadership and management of information services for eight hospitals totaling 1,461 beds, various clinics and related services. He also served as the liaison between the system office, regional and hospital executives, physicians, board members and customers. Prior to that Amey was chief information officer of the Southern California region for Adventist Health, which included five hospitals.

“From a patient perspective, a more effective information delivery system allows information and data to flow easily between the hospital and physician’s office,” Amey said. “The goal is to create a fully integrated healthcare delivery system where these separate units work as one, enhancing the clinicians’ effectiveness, the patients’ experience, and ultimately the clinical outcomes that we provide.”

Information and results generated in the clinical setting can be used by Keck School of Medicine faculty for research and development, a model that may lead to improved physician practices down the road, Amey noted.

The university acquired the USC University Hospital and USC Norris Cancer Hospital on April 1, 2009, in an historic purchase agreement with Tenet Healthcare Corp. USC's purchase included 471 inpatient beds and 1,700 hospital employees. More than 500 faculty physicians known as the Doctors of USC and associated with the Keck School of Medicine of USC practice there.

“Enhanced information technology services is a major part of our plan for developing our hospitals and providing the most cutting edge patient care,” said Mitch Creem, CEO of the hospitals. “Mr. Amey brings a wealth of experience in developing and implementing IT strategic plans in patient care environments. His leadership will be essential as we complete the transition to a world class university academic medical center.”

Keck School of Medicine Dean Carmen Puliafito noted that the work of the medical school needs to link with the hospitals and clinical practices in order to thrive.

 “Mr. Amey is an excellent choice to lead our integrated technology initiative,” Puliafito said.

Amey received a bachelor’s of business administration degree in management and finance from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich., and later earned a master’s in business administration from La Sierra University in Riverside, Calif. with an emphasis in health care administration.

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