KANSAS CITY, Kan. — A radiologist with 27 years of experience as a clinician and researcher, Louis Wetzel, MD, has been elected Chief of the Medical Staff at The University of Kansas Hospital.
Dr. Wetzel was elected by a vote of the medical staff. In addition to the duties as Chief of Staff, the position is also a voting ex officio member of The University of Kansas Hospital Authority Board.
“Outstanding hospital leadership and the partnership with the physicians on the medical staff have been the keys to this hospital’s growth to one of the best in the country. With new challenges in the way we deliver medical care, the collaboration between physicians and the hospital will be more important than ever,” said Dr. Wetzel.
Dr. Wetzel received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Kansas State University. After completing his MD degree and radiology residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, he did a fellowship in MR body imaging at the University of California San Francisco before joining the faculty.
Dr. Wetzel has extensive experience in the use of radiology on bone and soft tissue cancers and in polycystic kidney disease.
In addition to his clinical experience, he is a Professor of Radiology and vice chair of the Department of Radiology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Dr. Wetzel has served in many faculty leadership roles in the School of Medicine, and he has received numerous teaching awards.
In addition to his clinical experience, he is a Professor of Radiology and vice chair of the Department of Radiology at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Dr. Wetzel has served in many faculty leadership roles in the School of Medicine, and he has received numerous teaching awards.
He led the conversion of the Hospital radiology department to electronic imaging and improved reporting efficiency and timeliness.
“Lou Wetzel is a highly respected leader of the hospital medical staff and a strong advocate for the continued focus on quality care. I look forward to working with him,” said Bob Page, president and chief executive officer of The University of Kansas Hospital.
Page also had words of praise for outgoing Chief of Staff Dr. William Barkman, who is stepping down after 15 years in the post.
“Bill Barkman provided leadership through the most dynamic time in the history of our hospital. He helped encourage medical staff members to join in the quality improvement initiatives of the hospital. The partnership between physicians and the hospital has been critical in making the hospital a national quality leader,” said Page.
