Suggestions
James Madara
CEO, American Medical Association
Professional Background
Dr. James Madara has held the prominent position of CEO at the American Medical Association (AMA) since 2011, where he leads the oldest and one of the most influential organizations dedicated to promoting the interests of physicians across the nation. With a wealth of experience in addressing the strategic, operational, and financial challenges prevalent in medical and biosciences organizations, Dr. Madara has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the U.S. healthcare system. His tenure at the AMA is marked by his commitment to advancing the organization’s long-term strategic plan while preserving its foundational mission: to cultivate a healthier nation.
Apart from his leadership at the AMA, Dr. Madara is also the chairman of Health2047 Inc., a Silicon Valley innovation company focused on transforming healthcare through technology. Health2047 operates independently but serves a critical function by developing technological advancements that tackle ongoing challenges faced by healthcare providers and patients. Under Dr. Madara's leadership, the AMA has not only embraced innovation but has also positioned itself at the forefront of healthcare reform initiatives.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Madara's educational background is equally impressive. He received his MD from Drexel University, where he laid the groundwork for his extensive clinical and academic career. Following this, he gained deeper insights into pathology and epithelial cell biology as a resident and research fellow at Harvard Medical School. He later went on to earn an M.A. with honors from Harvard University and was bestowed with several honorary degrees: a D.H.L. (hon.) from Juniata College and a D.Sc. (hon.) from The University of Toledo. This rich academic background has enabled Dr. Madara to become a thought leader in healthcare and biomedical innovation.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Madara has served in various esteemed positions before joining the AMA. He spent over two decades at Harvard Medical School, where he not only earned tenure but also played a significant role in advancing research. His impact continued at the University of Chicago, where he held immense responsibilities, including serving as the Dean of Biological Sciences (which covered their medical school) and as the CEO of the university's associated hospitals. During his time at the University of Chicago, he spearheaded major renovations of the biomedical campus while forming strategic affiliations with community hospitals and research organizations, thus enhancing the institution's overall mission.
Achievements
Dr. Madara’s accolades reflect his commitment to healthcare advancement and leadership excellence. His former role as a Senior Advisor at Leavitt Partners underscores his influence in health policy development. He has also served as a chairperson at the board of directors at Health2047, contributing to innovative practices in the healthcare sector. His work has been recognized with selected lifetime achievement awards, reinforcing his status as a respected leader in life sciences and healthcare sectors. Furthermore, Dr. Madara still contributes to academia as an adjunct professor of pathology at Northwestern University, imparting his knowledge and expertise to the next generation of medical professionals.
Among his varied specialties, Dr. Madara focuses on life sciences, healthcare strategy, biomedical innovation, and health policy, and he possesses extensive experience in navigating complex organizational structures. Through his visionary leadership at the AMA and his academic prowess, he continues to be a driving force in shaping transformative healthcare policies and practices to improve healthcare delivery across the United States.