Delivering the best possible outcomes for children requires more than surgical expertise. It also depends on continuously evaluating results, identifying opportunities for improvement, and using data to guide better care.
Erica Carlisle, MD, associate professor in the University of Iowa Department of Surgery's Division of Pediatric Surgery, will help lead those efforts in a new role as ACS NSQIP Pediatric Surgeon Champion at University of Iowa Health Care.
The position serves as a key leadership role within the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) Pediatric Program. As Surgeon Champion, Carlisle will help oversee surgical quality initiatives, support data-driven improvement efforts, and work collaboratively with clinical and administrative leaders to advance outcomes for pediatric patients.
The role also supports UI Health Care's Children's Surgery Verification Program, which is focused on maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety in pediatric surgical care.
"I'm excited to step into this role and work with colleagues across the children's hospital to identify opportunities for improvement and ensure we're providing the highest quality surgical care possible," Carlisle says. "Programs like ACS NSQIP Pediatrics give us valuable data that help us learn from our outcomes, strengthen our processes, and ultimately improve care for the children and families we serve."
As Pediatric Surgeon Champion, Carlisle will work with multidisciplinary teams across the organization to review outcomes data, identify areas for improvement, and develop initiatives that enhance the quality and safety of care delivered to children.
Carlisle's appointment reflects the Department of Surgery's ongoing commitment to quality improvement, patient safety, and delivering exceptional surgical care for children across Iowa and the region.