David Daniel (Lakeland Surgical and Diagnostic Center, Lakeland, Fla.). Mr. Daniel is the CEO of Lakeland Surgical and Diagnostic Center, a large, independently-owned, freestanding, multi-specialty ASC that currently treats more than 19,000 patients annually, involving 32,500 procedures. LSCD opened in 1996 and is a joint venture partnership between a large local medical center, two large multi-specialty group practices and two independent physicians. It consists of three sites, six operating rooms, five procedures and 45 pre- and post-op beds.
Mr. Daniel is a retired Navy Captain, having served for 26 years in the Navy Medical Service Corps where he managed naval hospitals and clinics in a worldwide medical system. He has also served as administrator and COO of a large medical clinic and a physician group practice before coming to the LSDC. Mr. Daniel is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the American Association of Medical Assistants, as well as a diplomate in Healthcare Administration.
In his three years with LSCD, Mr. Daniel has reorganized its management structure and professionalized its non-physician staff. "I have established a new performance review and evaluation system, more efficient methods of patient care delivery and enhanced material management and plant services," he says. "I also instituted management by goals and objectives and improved staff/physician communications and an employee recognition program."
LSCD has increased its size and volume by 30 percent in the time since Mr. Daniel joined the ASC. Profitability has also increased. The center received full AAAHC accreditation at it locations and was recognized for exceptional quality by the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and received the Apex Quality Award for patient satisfaction by the CTQ Edge Survey.
Mr. Daniel finds the large size and complexity of LSCD part of what makes his job interesting. "Its high quality, prominent position in the local healthcare community and excellent reputation make my job enjoyable. I work alongside an exceptionally professional and capable staff as colleagues and friends. It is very professionally fulfilling," he says.
Constant activity and variety are two elements of his job that Mr. Daniel enjoys. "There is never a dull moment or time to get bored or complacent," he says. "Every day is an adventure, and you never know what to expect from one day to the next. It's pretty exciting!"
To see the list of all 50 Administrators to Know, click here.