#United States #Nashville #Healthcare Executive #Sound Long-Term Care Management #Dr. Thomas Kim

Dr. Thomas Kim Honored as One of the Most Influential Clinical Executives

In a remarkable achievement showcasing leadership in healthcare, Dr. Thomas Kim, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Sound Long-Term Care Management (SLTCM), has been distinguished by Modern Healthcare. Named among the 50 Most Influential Clinical Executives for the year 2026, Dr. Kim's recognition emphasizes his substantial impact on innovative healthcare management, especially within long-term care.

Leadership That Drives Change

Dr. Kim has been a pivotal figure in the success of SLTCM, an accountable care organization (ACO) operating under Sound Physicians. His exceptional skills in both clinical and operational domains have played a critical role in elevating SLTCM to national acclaim. It is noteworthy that under his leadership, SLTCM emerged as the number one ACO focused on long-term care within the Medicare Shared Savings Program (MSSP), achieving remarkable savings of nearly $114 million for Medicare in 2024 alone.

The substantial financial impact is only part of Dr. Kim's contributions. His initiatives extend far beyond mere numbers; they focus on fostering a better quality of care for some of the most vulnerable populations, including elderly patients within long-term care facilities.

Enhancing Patient Care

Dr. Kim’s recognition is largely attributed to his holistic approach towards patient care and operational efficiency. Key initiatives that he spearheaded include:

• - Expanding Treatment Capacity: By enhancing SLTCM's ability to provide care to more Medicare beneficiaries in their home environments, Dr. Kim has successfully reduced preventable emergency department visits and hospital admissions. This approach not only limits the stress and risks associated with hospital stays but also prioritizes the well-being of patients and their families.
• - Promoting Advanced Care Planning: Focusing on dignified end-of-life care, Dr. Kim has encouraged advanced care planning, working collaboratively with families and healthcare providers to adhere to patients' goals and values.
• - Advocacy for Long-Term Care Resources: A true champion for long-term care, Dr. Kim has driven initiatives to secure dedicated resources and support for high-needs beneficiaries, pushing for legislative changes such as the reinstatement of the Medicare APM Incentive Payment to bolster participation in ACOs.

Recognition and Acknowledgment

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Dr. Kim mentioned, "I'm greatly honored to have been recognized by Modern Healthcare. It's a privilege to bring the benefits of ACOs to a field as important as long-term care. I’m fortunate to be part of an organization that is committed to improving care through innovation and a focus on quality that improves outcomes."

Key stakeholders, including Sound Physicians' CEO Jeff Alter, have praised Dr. Kim for his unwavering commitment. Alter stated, "Dr. Kim has always shown a deep concern for the most frail and vulnerable among the patients we serve... He has demonstrated his exceptional leadership through innovations and improvements that keep patient well-being foremost at all times."

SLTCM’s Mission

Sound Long-Term Care Management focuses exclusively on Medicare beneficiaries living in long-term care, assisted, and independent living facilities. With a foundation rooted in value-based care and over two decades of experience, SLTCM is dedicated to exceptional patient care while enhancing financial performance for its partners. This commitment includes substantial investments in technology and telemedicine to ensure comprehensive patient care.

For further details about SLTCM’s initiatives and their ongoing commitment to expanding their services, visit soundphysicians.com/aco where interested parties can also explore the opportunity to participate in the ACO program.

As we look toward the future, leaders like Dr. Kim are exemplary models on how to create impactful, patient-centered care strategies—transforming healthcare landscapes for the better.