AHA CEO to retire in 2026: 5 things to know

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Rick Pollack, president and CEO of the American Hospital Association, will retire by the end of 2026 after more than four decades with the organization.

Five things to know:

1. Mr. Pollack joined the AHA in 1982 and has served as its chief executive since 2015. He previously spent more than 20 years as executive vice president for advocacy and public policy.

2. During his tenure, the AHA launched major initiatives aimed at strengthening the healthcare workforce, improving quality and patient safety, and enhancing cybersecurity through partnerships with the FBI and other government agencies. 

3. Mr. Pollack led the AHA through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping hospitals secure regulatory flexibility and critical resources to remain operational during the public health crisis. He also expanded the AHA’s political and grassroots networks, transforming the association into one of the nation’s most influential healthcare advocacy organizations.

4. The AHA board has hired executive search firm WittKieffer to lead a national search for Mr. Pollack’s successor. He will remain fully engaged in his role until the transition is complete. 

5. The board has also voted to grant him the title of AHA president and CEO emeritus.

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