Dr. Chad Harris has been practicing medicine at Natividad Medical Center for 15 years, serving as its CEO since 2021. Now he's on to a much bigger job with Santa Clara Valley Healthcare as its chief operating officer, where he'll oversee four hospitals and 15 major health centers. His last day with Natividad is July 2, the County of Monterey announced Thursday, June 18.
Harris is credited with leading Natividad through a period of growth and transformation as the county's safety-net health care system, as well as expanding access to care for residents.
"Under his leadership, Natividad has continued to earn recognition as one of California's leading public hospitals while remaining steadfast in its mission to provide compassionate care to every patient, regardless of ability to pay," the County's announcement states.
Harris called it the honor of his career to serve Natividad and the people of Monterey County.
"I have a deep admiration and affection for our mission, our patients, staff and the community we serve," he said. "As California’s first public safety net hospital, Natividad's mission is truly special, and I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside all of Natividad’s staff. While I am excited for the next chapter of public service, a piece of my heart will always remain with Natividad."
Harris serves on the board and executive committee of the California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems and for the national Accreditation Council for the Graduate Medical Education on ACGME's rural and underserved advisory committee.
"Dr. Harris has earned the respect of health care leaders throughout California because of his unwavering commitment to patients and public service," said County Supervisor Chris Lopez, who serves on the Natividad Board of Trustees.
"His leadership has helped position Natividad as one of the premier public hospitals in the state," Lopez said. "More importantly, he has never lost sight of why this institution exists: to care for our community, especially those who need us most. While we are saddened to see him leave, we are grateful for his service and proud that his talents will continue benefiting the people of California in this new role."
Harris will also be in charge of SCVH's Custody Health Services, which delivers physical and mental health services to incarcerated adults and juveniles in Santa Clara County.
An interim leader and the transition process will be announced in coming weeks, under the direction of the Board of Supervisors and Natividad's Board of Trustees.