Health care firm hires patient-focused executive

TAMPA — Former Assurant vice president Thomas Linton has been named chief patient empowerment office at Laser Spine Institute, a Tampa company that specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery.

In the newly created role, Linton will oversee the firm's patient-facing staff members who are critical to the patient experience, according to a statement. He will also have authority over employees who serve as liaisons with physicians in local markets.

According to the press release, Linton has also held leadership positions at AT&T, Bank of America and General Electric. Prior to joining Laser Spine Institute, he served as vice president of customer experience at Assurant, a Fortune 500 insurance company.

“We look forward to leveraging Thomas' expertise to further facilitate the delivery of exemplary experiences for our patients during every step of their care journey,” states Roger Cary, president and CEO of Laser Spine Institute, in the release. “Creating this position and adding someone with Thomas's track record is a testament to our commitment to patient-centered care.”