Robert McCann — Leader, Collaborator, and Mentor — Retires as AHP CEO

Every great golfer knows the secret to success lies not just in the swing but in the strategy — the ability to see the entire course, anticipate challenges, and work toward the best possible outcome. Throughout his distinguished career, Robert McCann, M.D. — an avid golfer — has applied this same thoughtful approach to medicine, leadership, and mentorship. As chief of Medicine at Highland Hospital from 1999 to 2021 and CEO of Accountable Health Partners (AHP) since 2013, McCann has left an indelible mark on UR Medicine and healthcare in the Rochester community. On December 31, he will retire, leaving a legacy of excellence, vision, and collaboration. Chad Teeters, M.D., CEO of Noyes Health and current medical director of AHP, will succeed McCann as interim CEO of AHP.

McCann’s tenure at Highland Hospital began when he arrived from Rochester General Hospital to take the helm of chief of Medicine. Over the next two decades, he worked alongside colleagues to transform Highland from a respected local community hospital into a nationally recognized leader in geriatric care, expanding subspecialty services, including palliative care, geriatrics, endocrinology, cardiology, and neurology. He helped launch the Geriatric Fracture Center, Acute Care for Elders (ACE) unit, and the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), significantly enhancing patient care.

Steve Goldstein, UR Medicine president of System Integration Strategy and former CEO of Strong Memorial and Highland hospitals, reflected on McCann’s impact, “Bob was instrumental in transforming Highland into what it is today—a hospital equipped to provide top-tier care for complex medical cases, particularly for older adults. His ability to advocate for resources and bring people together ensured Highland’s growth during critical times.”

McCann’s dedication to his patients has always been the cornerstone of his work. Cindy Becker, former COO of Highland Hospital, shared, “Bob’s genuine care for his patients was evident in everything he did. He would sit with patients, listen to their concerns, and ensure they felt heard. His approach inspired the entire team to strive for the same level of compassionate care.”

Daniel Mendelson, M.S., M.D., professor of Geriatrics & Aging at the UR School of Medicine & Dentistry and Jewish Home CMO and vice president of Medical Services, worked closely with McCann for more than 20 years and reflected on his remarkable leadership style. “Bob has a deeply positive and personal approach to leadership, rooted in genuine respect and appreciation for others. One of his signature questions—one I think we all came to expect and value — was, ‘Who are we leaving out?’ With those five words, Bob ensured that everyone’s contributions were recognized, no one was overlooked, and we were always striving for inclusivity and excellence.”

In 2013, McCann was named the inaugural CEO of AHP, a regional network of hospitals and physicians with a mission to improve healthcare delivery across upstate New York. His leadership was pivotal in fostering collaboration between community and academic physicians and building trust across diverse stakeholders. Mark Cronin, AHP COO, noted, “Bob’s relationships with community and university physicians were critical to AHP’s early growth. His ability to unite private and academic providers under a shared vision set the foundation for what AHP has become today. His leadership turned a dream into a thriving reality.”

McCann’s influence extends beyond his leadership roles. Described as a “mentor’s mentor,” he has guided countless colleagues to pursue leadership opportunities they may not have otherwise considered.

“Bob’s greatest gift to all of us is his role as a mentor,” said Annette Medina-Walpole, M.D., Paul H. Fine professor of Medicine and chief of the Division of Geriatrics & Aging. “He’s not just a supporter but a champion who takes genuine pleasure in the success of others. His optimism and encouragement have been the single most important professional asset for so many of us.”

Teeters echoed, “Bob has been my boss, my mentor, and my friend for nearly a quarter of a century. He’s left an indelible mark on my career trajectory and how I approach every facet of my work each day. It’s impossible to leave a meeting with Bob and not feel inspired.”

Joseph Nicholas, M.D., William & Sheila Konar professor of Geriatrics & Palliative Medicine at the UR School of Medicine & Dentistry, associate chief of Medicine at Highland Hospital, reflected, “His optimism and encouragement were so unique, and never misplaced. He takes genuine pleasure in the success of others.”

McCann’s colleagues frequently praise his ability to balance professional achievements with a rich personal life. “Bob’s dedication to his family and his pursuits outside of work are as much a part of his legacy as his professional achievements,” Becker remarked. “He’s shown us all that it’s possible to lead with excellence while maintaining balance.”

As he retires, McCann plans to continue teaching communication skills around end-of-life planning and serving as the next chair of the Board of Lifespan, an organization dedicated to supporting older adults and their caregivers. He’ll also spend time with his wife, Mary Beth, and their children, Bridgett, Mary Grace, and Bobby —and, of course, on the golf course.

Mendelson summed up his legacy, “Bob’s professional accomplishments are legendary: championing and supporting the founding of the Geriatric Fracture Center, his transformative work in palliative care, his leadership at AHP, and his role in making Highland Hospital a national leader in geriatric care. But what stands out even more is the way he accomplished these things—with kindness, vision, and a genuine love for what he does.”
 

3/3/2025