Phoenix Children's Health System Welcomes Four New Division Leaders to Enhance Pediatric Care

Enhancing Pediatric Healthcare: Phoenix Children's Appoints Four New Division Chiefs



Phoenix Children's Hospital is taking significant steps to enhance its pediatric healthcare delivery by appointing four new division chiefs. This strategic move, announced on October 5, 2026, underscores the organization’s commitment to exceptional leadership and unyielding support for its pediatric services.

Who Are the New Division Chiefs?



The newly appointed leaders are Dr. Sandra Buttram, Dr. Kevin Hummel, Dr. Karen Papez, and Dr. Ray Stanford, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective areas. Their promotions reflect Phoenix Children's ongoing investment in elevating healthcare quality and teaching future leaders within the institution.

Dr. Sandra Buttram, Vice President and Chief of Pediatric Critical Care


Dr. Buttram has dedicated 15 years to Phoenix Children's, significantly impacting the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and beyond. As a specialist in pediatric critical care medicine, her focus has been on improving outcomes for critically ill children, particularly those suffering from conditions like acute brain injury. Her leadership is not only evident in daily operations but also through her involvement in research initiatives aimed at advancing pediatric medicine.

Dr. Kevin Hummel, Vice President and Chief of Cardiovascular Intensive Care


Joining Phoenix Children’s in 2024, Dr. Hummel has specialized in pediatric cardiology. As the new division chief of Cardiovascular Intensive Care, he leads an influential team that is recognized as one of the largest pediatric cardiac units in the Southwest. With a strong commitment to improving congenital heart disease outcomes, his research and leadership roles resonate across numerous professional societies.

Dr. Karen Papez, Vice President and Chief of Nephrology


A member of the Phoenix Children’s team since 2007, Dr. Papez has extensive experience in managing pediatric transplant patients. She will now guide Phoenix's pediatric nephrology division, which includes Arizona's premier pediatric dialysis and kidney transplant programs. Her expert leadership has already facilitated remarkable advancements in acute care nephrology, ensuring children receive the integrated care they need throughout their treatment journey.

Dr. Ray Stanford, Vice President and Chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation


Dr. Stanford, who has been with Phoenix Children's since 2021, is appointed as the chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. His role is critical as he focuses on improving mobility and independence for children recovering from severe injuries and illnesses. His efforts are vital to the Frances H. McClelland Rehabilitation Program, especially in ensuring that young patients receive comprehensive rehabilitation plans.

Commitment to Growth and Excellence



The appointments of these four division chiefs come at a pivotal time for Phoenix Children's, which continues to grow its clinical capabilities to meet the needs of an expanding pediatric population in Arizona. Notable recent milestones, including the promotion of Dr. Joshua Koch and appointments of new executives, further emphasize the hospital's commitment to leadership excellence.

As stated by Dr. Ashish S. Patel, physician in chief, “The depth of talent within our organization is remarkable. Each of these appointments reflects not only their proven commitment to our mission but also the transformative leadership they will provide in shaping the future of pediatric healthcare in Arizona.”

Phoenix Children's is dedicated to providing world-class pediatric care, ensuring that children and families receive the highest quality services at every touchpoint. This leadership transition represents a significant step towards achieving that goal, ensuring that those seeking specialized pediatric services are met with both compassion and the highest standard of care. To learn more about their services and initiatives, visit Phoenix Children's.

Topics Health)

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