Richard J Davidson

Richard Davidson, who served as president of the American Hospital Association for 16 years and was a champion of hospital quality measurement, died Monday at the age of 79. Davidson was the second longest-serving president in the trade group's 118-year history. From 1991 to 2007, Davidson led national efforts to publicize hospital quality information and engage community care networks to improve patient care. The effort is considered the predecessor to accountable care organizations. Davidson was the first president of the Maryland Hospital Association, serving from 1969 to 1991. Davidson earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from West Chester University and Temple University, respectively. While serving at the MHA, Davidson earned a doctorate in education from George Washington University. Davidson is survived by his wife, Janet, and two sons, one of whom is Andy Davidson, president and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems. He was preceded in death by his son Michael.