Virginia Mason Franciscan Health CEO Ketul Patel becomes WSHA board chair

October 28, 2024

The Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) this month welcomed Ketul Patel, CEO of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, as its new board chair. Patel will preside over the board of directors and help lead WSHA’s work in the coming year. WSHA hospital and health system members elected Patel in July of 2024, and his term began Oct. 1.

“Hospitals face many challenges today, from workforce shortages to navigating the future of public health,” Patel said. “My focus as chair is to ensure we tackle these challenges head on and strengthen our communities. I look forward to guiding WSHA’s efforts to advance health care quality, access and equity across the state.”

Patel has dedicated his career to expanding access to health care, specifically for the most vulnerable in communities across the United States. As CEO of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and President of the Northwest Region of CommonSpirit Health, Patel is focused on developing solutions to ensure all individuals have equitable access to and receive the highest-quality, safest care while also ensuring a world-class experience.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ketul Patel as WSHA’s new board chair,” WSHA CEO Cassie Sauer said. “His leadership and deep commitment to improving health care will help us build stronger partnerships across the state and advance our shared goals.”

About Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is a leading health system in Washington state. Formed by the integration of two outstanding health systems—CHI Franciscan and Virginia Mason—Virginia Mason Franciscan Health offers a wealth of convenient hospital, clinic, and care locations in western Washington. With more than 18,000 team members and staff and nearly 5,000 employed physicians and affiliated providers, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health provides expert, compassionate medical care at 10 hospitals and nearly 300 care sites throughout the Puget Sound region.

Affiliates

Contact Us

Washington State Hospital Association
999 Third Avenue
Suite 1400
Seattle, WA 98104

Map / Directions

206.281.7211 phone
206.283.6122 fax

info@wsha.org

Staff List