Dr. Alejandro Quiroga, a Colombian physician, has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Mercy Kansas City in the United States.

Dr. Alejandro Quiroga, a Colombian physician and a graduate of the Universidad del Rosario in Bogotá, has been appointed as President and CEO of Children’s Mercy Kansas City, one of the most renowned pediatric healthcare systems in the United States. This appointment, effective January 2, 2025, represents not only an outstanding personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for the Latin American medical community.

Academic and Professional Background

Dr. Quiroga began his medical journey at the prestigious Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, where he trained as a general practitioner. He later expanded his education in the United States, completing a pediatric residency at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami and a pediatric nephrology fellowship at Montefiore Children’s Hospital in New York. In addition, he undertook a clinical rotation in pediatric neurology and a research program in pediatric oncology at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

This solid academic foundation allowed him to excel as a leader in the field of pediatric health, combining research, clinical practice, and the administration of healthcare systems. His ability to balance these areas led him to hold high-level management roles, including his most recent position as President of Corewell Health West in Michigan, an integrated health system valued at $4.2 billion.

Impact at Corewell Health West

During his time at Corewell Health West, Dr. Quiroga oversaw a system of 10 hospitals, more than 120 outpatient clinics, and a medical team of 4,000 providers. Under his leadership, key research programs were consolidated, such as those for pediatric kidney transplants, heart and lung transplants, and bone marrow transplants. He also fostered a culture of inclusion and trust that improved employee retention and enhanced the patient experience.

His innovative approach was also reflected in the development of programs that combined cutting-edge technology with compassionate care. Among his most notable achievements was the strengthening of community partnerships, which enabled greater accessibility and equity in healthcare services.

Children’s Mercy Kansas City: A New Chapter

Founded 127 years ago, Children’s Mercy Kansas City has positioned itself as a leading institution in pediatric care and innovative research. This hospital not only provides state-of-the-art medical care but also leads initiatives in biomedical research and medical education. Dr. Quiroga’s appointment comes at a crucial time, as the institution seeks to solidify its position as a national and international leader in pediatric health.

Diane Gallagher, Chair of the Children’s Mercy Board of Directors, expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting Dr. Quiroga’s inspiring leadership as well as his focus on research and innovation. “We knew that Dr. Quiroga was the ideal choice for our organization. His experience and passion for caring for children inspire us to look toward a promising future,” said Gallagher.

Meanwhile, current President and CEO Paul Kempinski will remain in his position until January 2025 to ensure a smooth transition. Kempinski emphasized that Dr. Quiroga is the right leader to guide the institution into its next stage of growth.

Future Outlook

Dr. Quiroga takes on this challenge with a clear vision: to continue the tradition of excellence in pediatric care and to strengthen Children’s Mercy’s impact both locally and internationally. In his own words, “It’s a dream come true. I’m excited to join such a talented and dedicated team. Together, we will create a world of wellness for every child we serve.”

His leadership promises innovative approaches that integrate technology, advanced research, and family-centered care. In addition, he is expected to continue fostering collaborations with universities and research centers to drive new discoveries in the pediatric field.

A Role Model

Dr. Quiroga’s appointment not only highlights his professional achievements but also serves as an example for other Latin American healthcare professionals seeking to make a global impact. His story is a reminder that commitment, academic excellence, and a passion for service can open doors in the world’s most demanding arenas.

With this accomplishment, Dr. Quiroga reaffirms the relevance of medical education in Colombia and its ability to train leaders with an international vision. His leadership at Children’s Mercy promises not only to advance pediatric care but also to inspire a new generation of physicians to dream big and work toward making a global impact.