David Zaas leaves Atrium Health for Duke University CEO role

David Zaas, MD, is stepping down as the top executive at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. He will take on the role of CEO at Duke University Health System. The move marks a significant leadership change for both organisations. Zaas previously led Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, overseeing more than 27,000 employees. His departure has prompted the organisation to launch a national search for a replacement. An interim leader will be named shortly to manage operations during the transition.

At Duke University Health System, Zaas will now head four hospitals: Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, and Durham Regional Hospital. He will also manage the system's clinics and medical facilities. Before A. Eugene Washington's appointment as CEO in 2004, these hospitals operated directly under Duke's health network.

The leadership shift leaves Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist searching for a permanent successor. Zaas's new position at Duke will see him overseeing a major academic health system. Both institutions are now preparing for the changes ahead.