Ketul J. Patel Appointed as CEO of Wellstar Health System

The announcement follows the retirement of Candice L. Saunders, who led the organization through a period of steady service and leadership.

The Wellstar Board of Trustees has named Ketul J. Patel as the next president and CEO of Wellstar Health System. 

Patel, currently CEO of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and president of the Pacific Northwest Region of CommonSpirit Health, is expected to join Wellstar in late October.

The announcement follows the retirement of Candice L. Saunders, who led the organization through a period of steady service and leadership.

Leadership Experience Across Health Systems

Patel brings extensive experience overseeing complex health systems. He currently manages 12 hospitals, over 300 patient care locations, and a workforce of 20,000, including more than 5,600 providers.

“Ketul stood out for his experience leading transformational growth while remaining focused on the needs of team members, patients, and the community,” said Frank Ros, former chair of the Wellstar Board of Trustees, who led the CEO search committee.

Patel played a central role in the 2021 merger that created Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, one of the largest healthcare providers in Washington state. Under his leadership, the system earned all “A” Leapfrog Patient Safety Grades.

In 2024, he launched the VMFH Care Network to extend clinical expertise across Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Montana. He also oversees the Benaroya Research Institute and Bailey-Boushay House, which provides care for people with HIV/AIDS.

“It’s an honor to join the Wellstar team and help carry forward its mission of providing compassionate, world-class care to every person, every time,” said Patel. “Thanks to the leadership of Candice and her strong executive team, Wellstar is positioned to be one of the Southeast's leading health care providers for years to come.”

“On a personal note, I look forward to becoming engaged in the metro Atlanta community and working alongside policymakers to expand access to care throughout Georgia,” he added.

The Wellstar Board of Trustees is expected to formally confirm Patel’s appointment later this month.

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