Washington Health Alliance Quality Improvement Committee member Dr. John Vassall was awarded the Steven E. Weinberger Award by the American College of Physicians, the national organization of internal medicine physicians. This prestigious award is bestowed upon a physician executive for distinguished contributions to internal medicine and improving health care. Dr. Vassall commented, “I am honored to receive this award. I’m fortunate to have a career that has afforded me the privilege of improving the lives of individuals and the health of communities nationwide. To be recognized at this level is at once humbling and gratifying.”

In addition, Dr. Vassall recently joined Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine as Associate Dean of Clinical Education and Vice Chair, Medical Education and Clinical Sciences. Prior to this post, he acted as Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at WSU’s Everett Campus.

Dr. Vassall’s career spans more than three decades. As Comagine Health’s Physician Executive for Quality and Safety, he provided strategic leadership, clinical insight and technical expertise for patient safety and quality improvement activities. He was a hospital MD surveyor for The Joint Commission, evaluating U.S. hospitals for safety and quality of care. At Swedish Health Services, he served as Vice President for Medical Affairs and Chief of Staff before becoming Chief Medical Officer, responsible for quality, safety, accreditation, research, medical staff services and risk and compliance.

Currently, Dr. Vassall is a member of the Washington State Disaster Medical Advisory Committee, a Strategic Advisor for Coopersmith Law + Strategy, a Trustee of the Institute for Diversity in Health Management, a member of the Seattle University Board of Trustees and is on the American Hospital Association Board of Trustees. He has also served as a Trustee for the Washington State Medical Association and Washington State Hospital Association.