West Orange, NJ, March 18, 2026 – Dr. Andy Anderson, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical and Quality Officer at RWJBarnabas Health, made it onto Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 252 notable chief medical officers for 2026. This recognition highlights leaders who make a real difference in patient safety and healthcare quality.
Dr. Anderson has committed his career to enhancing healthcare at RWJBarnabas Health. He oversees over 41,000 employees, including 9,000 doctors, ensuring patients receive top-quality care. He emphasizes continuous improvement and collaboration between staff and leadership.
Under his guidance, RWJBarnabas Health aims to be a high-reliability organization. This approach fosters a culture of excellence, focusing on safe and compassionate care for patients and staff.
One of Dr. Anderson’s key achievements is boosting investments in innovative technology. His efforts with the Epic Deterioration Index have streamlined how medical teams identify deteriorating patients. Thanks to this initiative, RWJBarnabas Health has seen a 27% reduction in mortality among patients moved to the ICU, with an estimated 1,000 lives saved annually since 2023.
Additionally, Dr. Anderson has worked to reduce central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). By unifying practices across hospitals, results showed over a 30% decrease in CLABSIs and over 60% in C. diff infections during 2024 and 2025.
Dr. Anderson also launched task forces focusing on patient feedback, readmissions, and hospital infections. These groups utilize surveys to enhance patient experiences and improve care protocols, making a noticeable impact on healthcare quality.
About RWJBarnabas Health
RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest academic health system, caring for more than five million individuals yearly. It features 14 hospitals and 9,000 affiliated physicians, with over 700 patient care locations. The system is recognized for its efforts in promoting health equity and addressing social determinants of health.
The organization partners with Rutgers University, enhancing access to specialized care, including cancer treatment through the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
With over 45,000 employees, RWJBarnabas Health significantly impacts New Jersey’s economy, contributing over $7 billion annually. For further information, visit RWJBarnabas Health.
As healthcare continues to evolve, Dr. Anderson’s leadership and innovative strategies highlight the importance of adapting to new challenges while prioritizing patient care. The ongoing investments in technology and patient feedback systems signify a trend towards more responsive and responsible healthcare practices.
