Kravec Honored by Health-Care Group for Pandemic Leadership

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Dr. James Kravec, Mercy Health-Youngstown’s chief clinical officer, has been honored by The Leapfrog Group with its Special Recognition for Heroism during the Pandemic award.

The honor recognizes those who have “demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to patient safety amidst the COVID-19 crisis,” Mercy Health said in a statement announcing the award.

“Dr. Kravec both expertly and passionately cares about the people of this Valley and the patients we serve each day,” said Dr. John Luellen, market president of Mercy Health-Youngstown. “He continues to tirelessly work to respond in real-time to this ever-changing virus and we as a community, are blessed to have his commitment to the health of us all.” 

Over the course of the pandemic, Kravec has emerged as a local leader, overseeing the Mercy Health Physicians organization, which allowed the health-care system to quickly respond with clinical and drive-thru testing and implement a virtual visit model for Mercy doctors.

He also served in the public health sphere as medical director of Mahoning County Public Health, which initially drew The Leapfrog Group’s attention.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has required hospitals and people who work in hospitals to sacrifice and lead as never before. Leapfrog holds hospitals accountable for the highest standards of excellence in patient care because we know how important it is, and never more so than during a health crisis,” said Leapfrog CEO Leah Binder. “We are honored to give special recognition to Dr. Kravec for his heroism during the pandemic.”

Founded in 2000, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit dedicated to “driving a movement for gait leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care.” Nominations for the one-time award were submitted by hospital staff and leaders. Winners were selected by a committee of Leapfrog’s leaders and advisers.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.