Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD
When Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD, a neurosurgeon and executive leader, stepped into his role May 1 as North Kansas City Hospital president and CEO, he fulfilled his life’s passions.
“I’ve only had two dream jobs. One was to be a neurosurgeon, and the other was to be a CEO. I got both. There’s not a medical community I’d be prouder to lead than this one,” Steve said, smiling.
His ties to the hospital began in 1989 when he joined the neurosurgery staff. He has held numerous executive leadership positions at the hospital, including director of spine surgery and president of the medical staff. Before taking the helm at NKCH, he led Meritas Health Neurosurgery, formerly the Kansas City Neurosurgery Group. He joined the practice after completing his residency in neurosurgery at the University of Kansas School of Medicine.
Care Philosophy
His appreciation of his position is palpable, and equally unmistakable is his motivation to lead an organization that seeks to provide skilled, compassionate patient care.
“I think patient care is one person sitting down with another person and saying, ‘How can I help you?’” Dr. Reintjes said. “Whether you’re a surgeon, a cardiologist or a primary care physician, our many physicians and I endeavor to follow this fundamental expression of care.”
Vision
He is steadfast in his vision amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“A top priority is working with our team to get through the COVID crisis,” Steve said. “We’ll fight until the end, and we’re going to win. COVID is just one disease we need to treat. We’re here to meet all the healthcare needs of the community, and we’ll do that by continuing to deliver excellent care at every access point. I want people to see us as the place for care, comfort and safety. I want to promote the high quality of our physicians, nurses and staff and expand our services in the areas of primary care and specialty care.”
Community Support
NKCH medical staff and employees have garnered a level of community support like no other.
“We have a large, competent, unified medical staff and a dedicated group of compassionate, talented nurses and employees who roll up their sleeves every day to complete our mission to provide hope and healing to every life we touch,” he said. “This is our greatest distinguishing factor. We’re not only a healthcare facility. We’re a source of community pride.”