Mercy Southeast names new chief medical officer

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Mercy Hospital Southeast has named Dr. Joseph Hayes as its new chief medical officer.

Hayes most recently served in senior leadership at SGMC Health in South Georgia, where he worked with medical staff and leadership to support care delivery and develop physician training programs.

He also serves as a population health expert on a committee overseeing health care quality measures for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and was recently recognized by the American College of Physicians for his work in expanding access to care and developing future physician leaders.

“Dr. Hayes joins Mercy Southeast with a proven history of developing and strengthening frontline leadership and a dedication to advancing quality, affordable care,” said Dr. John Mohart, Mercy executive vice president and chief operating officer.

Hayes said he looks forward to building strong care teams and serving the Southeast Missouri community.

Hayes is a board-certified internal medicine physician with experience in clinical practice and leadership roles. He earned his medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine and an MBA in health care administration from Valdosta State University. He completed his residency at HCA Memorial University Medical Center in Savannah, Georgia.

Mercy is one of the largest health systems in the United States, operating hospitals, clinics and outpatient facilities across multiple states.