Surescripts adds Tom Skelton as CEO

Arlington, Va. — Health information network Surescripts has brought on Tom Skelton as its new CEO, the company announced Thursday. Skelton, who has worked in the health IT field for several years, will take his place at the helm of the company on Aug. 25. 

“Surescripts is at a critical point in its growth, so Tom will play a key role as we continue to perfect e-prescribing and expand our clinical network to create a comprehensive, unified healthcare system that improves care outcomes, increases efficiency and decreases costs,” Superscripts’ board of directors co-chairman Douglas Hoey said.

Skelton’s career in health IT reaches back to the 1980s, when he began as VP operations for medical software company Elcomp Systems, where he stayed until 1994. In 2000, he became CEO of Misys Healthcare Systems and founded Confluence Medical Systems in 2007. Mostly recently, he has been CEO of Foundation Radiology group.

“Tom has a deep understanding of the provider workflow, having previously led firms that develop technology products for physicians and clinicians, and brings tremendous operational and management experience, as well as a proven ability to set a clear vision for the development and commercialization of new technologies,” Surescripts’ board of directors co-chairman Steven Miller said. 

Now Skelton moves on to Surescripts, where he’ll oversee the company that connects about 100 different health systems and more than 850 hospitals in the United States.

It also provides electronic prescription services to 95% of community pharmacies.

“The progress Surescripts has made in recent years is a clear indication of the strength of its relationships with pharmacies, providers, payers, pharmacy benefit managers, retail clinics, health information exchanges and many others,” Skelton said.