Stuart Rabinowitz Appointed Chair of Nassau University Medical Center Board: A New Era of Leadership

Stuart Rabinowitz will head a new board for the struggling Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), as announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. This change comes as NUMC faces serious financial issues, with a reported deficit of $1.4 billion at the end of the last year.

Joining Rabinowitz on the board are Konstantinos "Dean" Mihaltses, a veteran hospital executive; Lisa Warren, a real estate development president; and Amy Flores, a JP Morgan Chase vice president. Hochul believes these leaders will improve accountability and care at NUMC.

This restructured board, which will eventually consist of 11 members, marks a shift in control from Nassau County officials to the state government. Seven of the board members will be chosen by Hochul and input from Democratic lawmakers. The state and county had discussions last year about NUMC’s future, but talks stalled, leading to a lawsuit over funding claims—now ongoing.

NUMC is vital for those with limited or no insurance, often referred to as a "safety-net" hospital. Yet, operational losses have risen sharply, from $102 million in 2020 to a projected $144 million in 2024.

Rabinowitz sees a pressing need for reform. He aims to restore trust and stabilize the hospital. His extensive experience as Hofstra University’s president, where he initiated a medical school, will guide his efforts.

Megan Ryan, the current NUMC CEO, announced her resignation, stating she could not support what she views as dismantling the institution. She previously rallied against concerns about NUMC’s potential closure, a claim officials have denied.

Critics of the state takeover, including Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, argue it has created a negative atmosphere at the hospital, linking issues to Hochul’s funding decisions over recent years. This division highlights ongoing tensions in managing public healthcare in a challenging fiscal landscape.

As the new board begins its work, the focus remains on addressing financial stability and restoring public confidence in this essential health service.

For further context on the state of public hospitals in similar situations, see this NYS Department of Health report.

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