Bayless Begins Job as Chief Executive Officer

Maricopa Integrated Health System starts new chapter as Bayless arrives for work - September 25, 2005

When Betsey Bayless speaks, people in Arizona listen.

A well respected member of the political establishment, she will guide the Maricopa Integrated Health System (MIHS) in the years to come and solidify its position as the leading teaching hospital in the Valley.

The Maricopa Special Health Care District board of directors selected Bayless as CEO in August, succeeding James Kennedy, M.D., FACS, who is returning to his position as chief medical officer of the system. Bayless steps into the picture at a time when the financial picture has brightened for the health care system.

The management team here has worked very hard to continue its mission of patient care while transitioning from a county entity to a special health care district, said Bayless. The balance sheet has been significantly strengthened. I am looking forward to continuing a culture of quality medical care and fiscal responsibility.

Bayless, who most recently led the Arizona Department of Administration, has an intimate knowledge of government operations at the local, county, state and federal levels; a reputation for bi-partisan problem-solving; and is known for integrity, caring, a strong work ethic and professionalism, each vital qualities for the CEO position.

She served as secretary of state from 1997 to 2003 and has worked in many areas of public service, including Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. She holds an undergraduate degree in Latin American Studies and Spanish from the University of Arizona, and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Arizona State University.

About the Special Health Care District and MIHS

The special health care district was formed in November, 2003, when voters passed Proposition 414. The district formally took over the health care system from Maricopa County in January, 2005.

Maricopa Integrated Health System is headquartered in Phoenix. The cornerstone of the system is Maricopa Medical Center (MMC), a major teaching hospital with a history dating back more than 100 years. Best known for its critical care services, the hospital offers Level 1 trauma and intensive care for adults, babies and children. Two in-patient psychiatric care centers with nearly 200 beds provide services in behavioral medicine. The nation's second largest burn treatment facility, the Arizona Burn Center, located on the main hospital campus, treats more than 800 patients per year. Eleven family health care centers are located throughout the Valley, providing primary and specialty care ranging from well baby to HIV-AIDS patient services. www.mihs.org

Last updated on October 7, 2008