Colleen Swank, MD, named chief medical officer at St. Mark's Hospital

We are pleased to announce that Colleen Swank, MD, has been named Chief Medical Officer (CMO) at St. Mark's Hospital, effective August 23, 2023.

Dr. Swank brings over a decade of strategic medical leadership to St. Mark’s Hospital. Her accomplishments at Sanford Health in Bemidji, Minnesota, where she most recently served as Vice President of Clinic, are a testament to her commitment to patient safety, clinical quality, and physician engagement. Her leadership in implementing clinic practice guidelines to enhance patient access and satisfaction and her role as a source of medical knowledge during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate her dedication to her colleagues and the communities she serves.

“We’re thrilled to have Dr. Swank join our leadership team at St. Mark’s Hospital,” said Jeremy Bradshaw, Chief Executive Officer at St. Mark’s Hospital. “Her impressive track record and leadership experience will make her a vital asset to our hospital as we continue to focus on our mission of being committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

She has also held the leadership position of Chief Medical Officer at Altru Health System in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where she implemented quality improvement programs and led initiatives that significantly improved physician engagement, satisfaction, and retention. Her commitment to evidence-based leadership aligns perfectly with the hospital's vision to be the choice for healthcare excellence.

Throughout her career, Dr. Swank has demonstrated a remarkable ability to foster collaboration and communication, which will help enrich the hospital's culture and further engage our stellar medical staff. Dr. Swank's strong mentorship and involvement in various committees and councils during her career directly reflect her dedication to the growth and well-being of her colleagues.

Dr. Swank shared that the prospect of leading and collaborating with a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals, all dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care, fills her with excitement.

“I’m excited about working closely with the medical staff and administration, contributing to decisions that directly influence patient care, safety, and the overall patient experience,” said Dr. Swank.

Dr. Swank was born and raised in North Dakota. After attending medical school at the University of North Dakota, she moved to Salt Lake City and completed her pediatrics residency at the University of Utah and Primary Children's Hospital.

Although her career took her out of Utah, Dr. Swank, her husband, and their two sons regularly vacationed in Utah — so they are beyond excited to return to the Beehive State. Dr. Swank enjoys traveling, musical theater, and hiking in her free time.

As we welcome Dr. Swank to St. Mark's Hospital, we look forward to the impact she will undoubtedly have on our organization. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Colleen Swank, our new Chief Medical Officer.