UI Health Care names Chief Integration Officer for Mercy Iowa City transition
University of Iowa Health Care has appointed Deborah Berini as Chief Integration Officer (CIO) and Interim Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to lead management and integration as Mercy Iowa City becomes a part of UI Health Care, which is expected to be complete on Jan. 31, 2024.
In the weeks after the bankruptcy court approved the sale of Mercy Iowa City to the University of Iowa, an integration team comprised of leaders and teams across both organizations has been working to provide a smooth transition for Mercy Iowa City employees, providers, and patients. Berini will begin supporting the integration team when she joins UI Health Care on Jan. 2.
With more than 20 years of distinguished leadership in health systems at institutions such as Penn State Health, University of Texas Medical Branch Health System, UAB Medicine, and University of Wisconsin Health, Berini is recognized for her transformative leadership. In her most recent role with the Chartis Center for Burnout Solutions, Berini advises health care institutions nationwide in effectively managing burnout in staff and physicians making a meaningful impact on wellbeing and overall performance.
“Deborah’s expertise in leading large health care organizations through hospital acquisitions and periods of significant change, while maintaining high employee engagement and quality care, will be a valuable asset as we integrate Mercy Iowa City’s workforce and patient care operations with UI Health Care,” says Emily Blomberg, chief operating officer of UI Hospitals & Clinics and the executive sponsor of the Mercy Iowa City integration steering committee.
In addition to leading all aspects of integration, Berini will provide on-site leadership at Mercy Iowa City’s campus and support ongoing operations during the transition after the transaction is complete. She will report to Blomberg and partner with the designated integration team to allow for a successful transition.