IMS Puts Walsh In Charge Of Provider Strategy

NORWALK, Conn. (AP) — Pharmaceutical market research company IMS Health Inc. said Wednesday it placed executive Jack Walsh in charge of handling business with private and government health care providers.

Walsh was named senior vice president for payer and government solutions. He had been in charge of strategy and business development before being named to the newly created position. He has worked at IMS for 12 years. IMS said he will lead studies that compare the different treatments in terms of their cost effectiveness and clinical value.

The company said that research is used by drug companies, health insurers, governments, employers, health care providers and patient groups. IMS is planning to focus on service to payers and governments, along with specialty pharmacy and patient centered research, as it looks to improve profit growth.

The shift in focus was announced in July. The company also said it will restructure and cut 850 jobs. IMS shares fell 14 cents to $12.93 in morning trading.