Valleywise Health Names Dr. Michael White as Next President and CEO

Valleywise Health has announced Dr. Michael White as its next president and chief executive officer, succeeding longtime CEO Steve Purves following a national search. Dr. White, who officially assumed the role on August 1, has served as the health system’s executive vice president and chief clinical officer since 2019.

The Maricopa County Special Health Care District Board of Directors selected Dr. White for his combination of executive leadership, clinical expertise and strategic vision after determining he was well positioned to build on the organization’s recent growth and transformation.

“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of Valleywise Health,” Dr. White said. “Over the years, Valleywise Health has become an indispensable resource for the people of Maricopa County. Together, we have built a strong foundation that positions us to expand access to care, strengthen the services our community depends on and reach even more people with the exceptional care our team delivers. I look forward to building on Steve Purves’ remarkable legacy as we continue fulfilling our mission of providing exceptional care without exception, every patient, every time.”

Dr. White steps into the position after helping lead many of Valleywise Health’s most significant initiatives over the past seven years, including the opening of the new Valleywise Health Medical Center, expansion of specialty and behavioral health services, growth of graduate medical education programs, and continued improvements in patient safety and operational performance.

“Selecting the next CEO of Valleywise Health has been one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to the Maricopa County Special Health District Board,” said Board Chair Virginia Korte. “We approached this process with great care, evaluating an exceptional group of candidates from across the country. Dr. White emerged as the clear choice because he brings the rare combination of executive leadership, operational expertise, strategic vision and a deep understanding of our mission and the communities we serve.”

Outgoing CEO Steve Purves praised Dr. White’s leadership and expressed confidence in the organization’s future under his direction.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Dr. White as Valleywise Health has evolved into one of the nation’s leading public teaching hospitals and safety-net health systems,” Purves said. “He is a steady, thoughtful leader whose clinical expertise provides unique insight into how operational decisions impact patients, caregivers, and the community. Dr. White approaches every challenge with integrity, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to doing what’s right for those we serve. I can think of no one better prepared to build on our momentum.”

A physician, educator and healthcare executive, Dr. White also serves as Associate Dean for Technology and Informatics at Creighton University School of Medicine. His appointment signals continuity for one of Arizona’s largest public healthcare systems as it continues expanding access to care and strengthening services for communities across Maricopa County. For more behind this Frontdoor, visit valleywisehealth.org.