Umbdenstock thanks hospital leaders for speaking up for patients, communities

Reflecting on his past nine years as the AHA’s president and CEO, Rich Umbdenstock today said the hospital field’s vision, commitment and collaboration promise “nothing but great days of loving service ahead. You are working on all the right things and getting better faster than ever before.” Umbdenstock is stepping down as the AHA’s leader at the end of this year. Opening the annual meeting’s Federal Forum, he also commended AHA members for their stubbornness in speaking up for their patients and communities. “You come to Washington, call your legislators and write to federal agencies,” he said. “You insist on telling your hospital’s story until they understand how their actions will affect the real people who count on you for care.” Umbdenstock also thanked AHA members for “all you do every day to deliver the best possible health and health care to your communities…and thank you for allowing me to serve you.”