Dr. Pothof leads systemwide efforts to improve safety, reduce harm, and enhance patient experience across UW Health. He implemented the “Health Event Reporting Online” system and launched innovative peer review and root cause analysis programs. His public health communications during Covid-19 reached over 1.9 billion global viewers, reinforcing trust in science and vaccines. He co-developed the “Human Factors Analysis and Classification System – Root Cause Analysis 2” model to address system issues behind medical errors, improving reliability. Under his leadership, UW Health has been ranked Wisconsin’s No. 1 hospital by U.S. News & World Report for 14 consecutive years. Dr. Pothof is also a flight physician, educator, and the recipient of numerous national awards for leadership in emergency medicine and patient safety.
