Michael Dowling recognized as one of the “Most Influential People in Healthcare”

Northport resident and Northwell Health President and CEO Michael Dowling has been named one of Modern Healthcare magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in Healthcare,” ranking third overall. This is the CEO’s 15th consecutive year making the prestigious list.

Dowling ranked alongside Albert Bourla, the Chairman and CEO of Pfizer Biopharmaceuticals, who was given the number one spot, and Stephane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, who ranked second. Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra also made this year’s list.

Dowling leads the largest healthcare provider and private employer in New York State. During his tenure as CEO, which began in 2002 after spending six years as executive vice president and chief operating officer, he has developed Northwell Health into New York State’s largest health system with 22 hospitals, approximately 830 ambulatory and physician practices, and $15 billion in annual revenue. In October, Northwell’s staff reached 100 percent vaccination, due in part to the state’s mandate for health care workers. The state-issued mandate was the cause of protests along Ocean Avenue, in front of Dowling’s home, where there continues to be security presence to this day.

In 2020, Northwell Health bore the brunt of the first wave of the pandemic, with New York City as its epicenter. To date, the healthcare provider has treated over 254,000 Covid-19 patients across its networks and this year, Northwell offered vaccines and booster shots to residents across the New York metropolitan area.

“This past year has shown us how vulnerable we still are to various pandemics facing health care, and how important it is to collaborate with our dedicated frontline workers and vanguard leaders to solve problems quickly in order to help our patients, families and communities through extraordinarily difficult times,” Mr. Dowling said.

In addition to his achievements within Northwell Health, Northporters recognize Dowling as a philanthropist who contributes to businesses and organizations throughout the community, including the Northport Historical Society and the John W. Engeman Theater. Earlier this month, the Northport Historical Society honored Dowling during their annual benefit gala. “His leadership through this health crisis has been remarkable, and we are honored to recognize his contributions, and thank him for his support of both the larger community, and of the society's work locally – preserving Northport’s history,” read the society’s press release for the event.