Arnold Named Associate Dean for Practice Plan Management, Executive Director of University Physicians

Patrick Delafontaine, MD, dean of the University of Missouri School of Medicine, today announced the appointment of Victor Arnold as associate dean for practice plan management and executive director of University Physicians at the MU School of Medicine. Arnold begins work Aug. 1.

“We are pleased to welcome Victor Arnold to the School of Medicine, where his work will complement that of other recent signature hires,” said Delafontaine. “Mr. Arnold will bring skills in strategic planning and business development that will support our continuing efforts of delivering excellent patient-centered and compassionate care.”

Affiliated with MU Health Care and the School of Medicine, University Physicians is mid-Missouri’s largest multi-specialty group with more than 600 physicians trained in nearly 75 specialties and subspecialties. As executive director of University Physicians and associate dean for practice plan management, Arnold will oversee the recruitment, development and retention of qualified staff needed to carry out the mission of University Physicians administration. In addition, Arnold will assist in the development of new funding models that reflect high-value care and work collaboratively with MU Health Care to develop and implement business plans for new services and expansion opportunities.

“Victor will be a wonderful addition to University Physicians, our medical school and the community,” said Theodore J. Choma, MD, chair of University Physicians, J. Vernon Luck Sr. Distinguished Professor and vice chair in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “He understands the financial complexities of supporting academic medicine and is experienced and knowledgeable in health care practice management.”

Arnold received a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Missouri and a bachelor’s degree from Drury University in Springfield. He also completed Stanford University’s Mid-Level Career Fast Track Program.

He has deep roots to the area. The mid-Missouri native graduated from Jefferson City High School, and Arnold and his wife have lived in Columbia for the past 11 years. His family first moved to Boone County in 1831.

Arnold has more than 15 years of experience in health care leadership. Prior to his appointment with MU, Arnold served as managing director for Huron Consulting Group and managing partner for AsquaredM Healthcare Consulting LLC. He also held positions as chief operating officer and interim chief executive officer for Kansas University Physicians.