Douglas Hanson, MPA, has been named chief executive officer of Buffalo, Monticello and Albertville-St. Michael clinics, succeeding Linda Dircks who is retiring after 41 years of service.
“I’m excited to join such a thriving, independent clinic practice that wants to remain independent,” says Hanson. “I am very impressed with the level of engagement and knowledge of the doctors and look forward to helping shape the clinics’ future as well as connecting with the communities we serve.”
A senior health care executive, Hanson joins the clinics with extensive experience in clinic management, operations and development. Most recently Hanson served as chief administrative officer for the Collaborative Care Cooperative, a network of over 500 independent specialists serving Minnesota as well as the chief executive officer at Open Cities Health Center serving low-income, uninsured and immigrants in need of affordable health care. Prior to that, Hanson was the chief executive officer and principle at Integrated Medical Rehabilitation, a private company providing all lines of rehabilitation therapy in Minneapolis and Florida. He also served as director of Administration and Development for Minnesota Specialty Physicians, Inc., a 600 specialty physician independent practice association in the Twin Cities. Hanson started his career in hospital administration at Metropolitan Medical Center and Hennepin County Medical Center.
As Dircks reflects on her long tenure at the clinics, she said “I’ve enjoyed incredible support from the physicians and staff over the years. We have brought together a team of excellent staff and exceptional physicians to care for our community and I’m confident Doug will carry on the legacy of providing the utmost in quality, personalized health care to our community.” When asked what’s next, Dircks responded, “I’m looking forward to spending more time with my children, grandchildren and husband along with traveling, time up north and doing some badly needed yard work.”
Dircks announced her retirement plans six months ago, providing the clinics’ leadership team ample time to recruit and retain her replacement. “The clinics’ executive committee and I appreciate Linda’s long record of accomplishment and dedication to our staff, providers and communities as well as the enduring contributions she has made to the clinics’ success through 41 years of service,” says John Hering, MD, president of Buffalo, Monticello and Albertville-St. Michael clinics. “I’m excited that Doug’s here and very confident that his extensive experience and expertise will serve our patients and communities well into the future.”
On a personal note, Hanson is the father of twin 23-year-old boys who are finishing college in Montana and Minnesota. He looks forward to being involved in the communities served by the clinics, saying, “I believe in giving back to the community and have a long history of volunteerism, serving on a number of boards civically and in health care.” Currently serving as vice president of the Minnesota Medical Group Management Association, Hanson has a Bachelors Degree in Science Social Work and Sociology and a Masters Degree in Publication Administration from Hamline University. In his free time, Hanson enjoys sailing, golfing, backpacking, reading and spending time with his sons.
To schedule an appointment at Buffalo, Monticello or Albertville-St. Michael clinics, call 763.684.3600. For more information, visit BuffaloClinic.com.