Dr. Richard G. Azizkhan has informed Children’s Hospital & Medical Center’s Board of Directors that he intends to retire and will leave his position as President and Chief Executive Officer effective August 16th. Former Children’s Board of Directors Chair Rodrigo López will serve as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, and is working with Dr. Azizkhan to ensure a smooth transfer of leadership. Dr. Azizkhan has agreed to assist in an advisory capacity until a permanent President and CEO is identified.
“I would like to thank everyone at Children’s for the tremendous honor and privilege to lead this incredible organization through a time of rapid change,” said Dr. Azizkhan. “I am extremely proud of all the dedicated professionals whose amazing work improves the lives of children every day."
Dr. Azizkhan has been in his role for nearly four years.
“Together, we have set the infrastructure, strategic path and trajectory for the organization for the next decade,” Dr. Azizkhan said. “This is an appropriate time to ensure an orderly transition and allow Children’s to reach its full potential and continue its life-changing work with fresh determination and energy.”
“As we thank Dr. Azizkhan for his service here, we also extend our sincere gratitude to Children’s providers and staff for their service and dedication to caring for the children of this community,” said Diane Duren, current Chair of the Board of Directors. “We are confident the hospital is well-positioned to meet the growing health care needs of children today and into the future.”
The resignation follows a lawsuit filed in January against the hospital and Dr. Azizkahn and Dr. Adam Conley. This after another physician complained about a surgeon at the hospital. That was followed by the resignation of 10 other physicians at the hospital.
The search is underway for a new president and that could take several months.