Jeffrey Pothof

Dr. Jeffrey Pothof is a Professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, serving as Chief Quality Officer for UW Health where he leads systemwide safety and quality initiatives across seven hospitals and 80 clinics. He maintains active clinical practice in emergency departments at University Hospital and East Madison Hospital, and as a flight physician for UW Health Med Flight since 2010.

His educational background includes:

• Undergraduate: Edgewood College
• Graduate: Master of Medical Management from Carnegie Mellon University
• Medical Degree: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
• Residency: University of Michigan Hospital/St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (Chief Resident)
• Fellowship: Hospital Administration from University of Michigan

Dr. Pothof's research focuses on quality improvement and patient safety in emergency settings, pioneering work in lean management methodologies, health system capacity solutions, and reduction of healthcare-associated conditions. His expertise bridges clinical practice with operational leadership, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to enhance patient outcomes while optimizing resource utilization in high-acuity environments.

Analysis of his publications reveals consistent emphasis on operational challenges in emergency medicine, including sepsis screening protocols, opioid prescribing patterns (particularly default quantities and elderly considerations), diagnostic myths in infections, and innovations in sign-out processes and departmental front-end solutions. His work demonstrates a systematic approach to translating quality improvement principles into practical clinical applications.

His notable recognitions include:

• Distinguished Service Award from ACEP Wisconsin chapter (2022)
• University of Michigan Department of Emergency Medicine Alumni Award for Excellence in Health Administration
• University of Wisconsin Department of Emergency Medicine Clinical Excellence Award

Dr. Pothof has held progressive leadership roles including Vice Chair of Quality and Operations in Emergency Medicine and Medical Director for Quality at UW Health. As Past Chair of ACEP's Quality Improvement Section and Past President of Wisconsin ACEP, he actively shapes national quality standards. His current work focuses on system-level implementation of safety initiatives and capacity management solutions across the UW Health network.