Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford to Join ChildServe in 2027
The pediatric oncologist will depart her current role at UnityPoint Health - Des Moines to lead medical operations at ChildServe.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Children’s Health
Pediatric oncologist Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford will assume the role of chief medical officer at ChildServe beginning in January 2027. She is currently serving as the chief medical officer for UnityPoint Health - Des Moines.
Why it matters
This leadership transition brings a specialist in pediatric oncology to a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving children with complex medical needs. Her move reflects a shift in executive healthcare leadership within the Des Moines region.
Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford brings years of specialized experience as a pediatric oncologist to the nonprofit sector. The extent of the transition plan between her departure from UnityPoint and the start of her new tenure in 2027 is currently unknown.
The players
Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford
She is a pediatric oncologist and the current chief medical officer for UnityPoint Health - Des Moines who will soon transition to lead ChildServe.
ChildServe
This is a private nonprofit pediatric healthcare organization in Des Moines that provides specialized care for children with complex health needs.
UnityPoint Health - Des Moines
It is a major regional healthcare provider in Des Moines that operates various hospitals and medical clinics across the area.
Blank Children's Hospital
This facility is a pediatric hospital located in Des Moines where Dr. Woods-Swafford previously served as medical director.
The details
Dr. Woods-Swafford previously served as the medical director at Blank Children's Hospital before taking her current leadership role last year. She will transition from her position at UnityPoint Health - Des Moines to join ChildServe, a nonprofit provider focused on children with special needs.
Timeline
Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford became chief medical officer at UnityPoint Health - Des Moines in 2025.
Dr. Wendy Woods-Swafford will begin her new role at ChildServe in January 2027.
The Big Picture
This transition aligns with the specialized care framework utilized by the ChildServe pediatric care model. The move underscores the competitive landscape for clinical leadership in regional nonprofit pediatric health systems.
Families relying on the nonprofit services provided by ChildServe may see changes in medical governance and clinical strategies following the arrival of the new CMO. This appointment signals a focus on specialized oncology-informed care pathways for pediatric patients in the region.
The takeaway
Healthcare organizations frequently adjust leadership to better serve niche patient populations, such as those with special needs. Patients should monitor upcoming clinical program announcements as the transition approaches in early 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest developments in Children’s Health.
