Permanente physician execs make Becker’s list of top health care leaders

Qualities that make a great doctor — strong communication, attention to detail, collaboration, and patient advocacy — are also essential for great leadership, guiding organizations into the future of health care. That’s why strong physician leadership is key to delivering high-quality, affordable, accessible care.  

This year, 8 Permanente physician leaders were recognized in Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2025 list of “Great leaders in healthcare” for their efforts in driving innovations that enhance patient experience, improve clinical outcomes, support the clinician workforce, and elevate quality of care:  

• Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, co-CEO of The Permanente Federation 

• Ramin Davidoff, MD, co-CEO of The Permanente Federation

• Nkem Chukwumerije, MD, MPH, FACP, president and executive medical director of The Southeast Permanente Medical Group 

• Leong Koh, MD, president and CEO of Northwest Permanente 

• Nancy Gin, MD, FACP, executive vice president of Quality and chief quality officer for The Permanente Federation 

• Brian Hoberman, MD, executive vice president of Information Technology and chief information officer for The Permanente Federation 

• Stephen Parodi, MD, executive vice president of External Affairs, Communications and Brand for The Permanente Federation 

• Nolan Chang, MD, executive vice president of Strategy, Corporate Development and Finance for The Permanente Federation 

 Leading while practicing medicine creates better health care leaders 

These physician leaders are setting the standard for leadership in health care. They’re not only driving efforts to deliver high-quality care and manage key business areas — operations, capital projects, process improvements, research, teaching, quality, finance, IT, government relations, and more — but they’re also practicing physicians. Their clinical experience brings a vital perspective to leadership, keeping care quality and patient satisfaction at the center of every decision. 

Related physician leadership story: Dr. Ansari on health care’s future amid demographic shifts

Physician leadership has long been at the heart of Permanente Medicine. By both practicing medicine and leading a value-based care organization, physician leaders can break down barriers to high-quality care for even more patients. This approach also allows physicians to focus on developing the best treatment plans and solutions that benefit both patients and health care systems.  

In Kaiser Permanente’s integrated care model, physicians direct care teams, collaborate with specialists across the organization, and help lead health care innovations like the recent rollout of ambient AI scribes. They also have access to extensive leadership training in operations, management, the business of health care, change management, and more.

Related health care innovation story: Permanente physician leaders on the future of health care delivery 

The recognition from Becker’s Hospital Review highlights Kaiser Permanente’s longstanding commitment to physician leadership. These leaders are dedicated to shaping the future of health care through innovations, efficient operations, and a focus on what’s best for patients. 

Read about the accomplishments of our Permanente physician leaders highlighted in “Great healthcare leaders to know” here.