Dr. Joe Kim Recognized as One of Becker’s Healthcare’s “180 Chief Medical Officers to Know”

Dr. Joe B. Kim, chief medical officer at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, has been recognized as one of Becker’s Healthcare's 180 Chief Medical Officers to Know in healthcare. This recognition draws attention to Dr. Kim’s commitment to advancing clinical care and improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Kim provides exemplary leadership for more than 1,200 affiliated physicians at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center. His collaborative approach with leaders across the organization ensures the delivery of high-quality and safe clinical care, reinforcing MemorialCare’s dedication to excellence. Among his numerous achievements, Dr. Kim has been instrumental in enhancing clinical efficiency within the hospital, significantly reducing the average length of stay by 0.7 days within just four months.

Dr. Kim’s focus on clinical efficiency extends to various crucial areas within the hospital. Recognizing the critical importance of early sepsis detection and management, Dr. Kim formalized the roles of a sepsis manager and a physician champion. This strategic move resulted in a remarkable 40% improvement in compliance with early sepsis recognition and management, showcasing his dedication to saving lives and improving clinical outcomes. Dr. Kim's efforts to streamline surgical operations have also yielded impressive results. Compliance with first case on-time starts increased by 25%, and same-day cancellation rates decreased by 38%. These improvements enhance operational efficiency and contribute to better patient experiences and outcomes.

"We are privileged to have exceptional doctors like Dr. Kim on our team at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center. His leadership and unwavering dedication to clinical excellence and patient safety are essential to our hospital's mission. Dr. Kim's commitment to maintaining high-quality standards and advancing healthcare improvements is a cornerstone of what makes MemorialCare a leading organization." 

- Blair Kent, CEO.

Under Dr. Kim’s leadership, the pain best practice team at MemorialCare has significantly advanced the safe and effective use of opioids. This achievement, which earned MemorialCare a spot on the Cal Hospital California Opioid Care Honor Roll for two consecutive years, is a testament to Long Beach Medical Center’s commitment to combat the opioid crisis responsibly. It's a source of pride and inspiration for all of us at MemorialCare.