Des Moines – UnityPoint Health’s Des Moines campus announced that its chief medical officer, Dr. Wendy Woods‑Swafford, will step down from the role at the end of the year to assume the same title at ChildServe, a private nonprofit dedicated to serving children with special health needs. The transition is set for January, when Dr. Woods‑Swafford will begin guiding ChildServe’s clinical strategy and expanding its network of pediatric specialists.
Career background
Dr. Woods‑Swafford has a long history in Iowa pediatric medicine. She served as medical director at Blank Children’s Hospital for many years before being appointed UnityPoint Health Des Moines’ chief medical officer last year. In addition to her administrative duties, she continues to practice as a pediatric oncologist, treating young patients with cancer and related blood disorders.
What ChildServe does
ChildServe operates a network of pediatric specialty clinics across the Midwest, offering services such as developmental therapy, neurology, orthopedics, and complex medical care for children with disabilities or chronic conditions. The organization emphasizes family‑centered care, coordinating with schools, therapists, and community resources to ensure each child receives comprehensive support.
Statement from Dr. Woods‑Swafford
“I am honored to work alongside the dedicated team members who are making a meaningful difference,” Dr. Woods‑Swafford said in a statement released by ChildServe. “ChildServe’s mission aligns with my lifelong commitment to improving the health and quality of life for children facing serious medical challenges.”
Impact on UnityPoint Health
UnityPoint Health has not yet announced a successor for the chief medical officer position at its Des Moines campus. Hospital leadership indicated that the search for a new CMO is underway and that continuity of care will remain a top priority during the transition.
Community response
Local health leaders and families have praised Dr. Woods‑Swafford’s move, noting that her expertise in pediatric oncology and her experience leading a major health system will strengthen ChildServe’s ability to serve Iowa’s children with complex medical needs. The Iowa Hospital Association released a brief comment, stating that the appointment reflects a growing collaboration between large health systems and specialty nonprofits to address gaps in pediatric care.
Looking ahead
As Dr. Woods‑Swafford prepares to join ChildServe, both organizations anticipate a period of shared learning and program development. ChildServe plans to expand its telehealth services in the coming months, a move that could benefit families in rural parts of Iowa and neighboring states. UnityPoint Health will continue to focus on its core mission of delivering high‑quality, affordable health care to the Des Moines community while the search for a new chief medical officer proceeds.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
