Dr. Paul Krakovitz Appointed as New CEO of Cone Health to Lead Healthcare Innovations

Cone Health Welcomes Dr. Paul Krakovitz as New CEO

Cone Health, a leading health system in Greensboro, North Carolina, is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Paul Krakovitz, FACS, as its new chief executive officer (CEO), effective March 16, 2026. This decision comes after a comprehensive nationwide search aimed at finding a leader who embodies the core values of the organization and has a proven track record in healthcare management.

Dr. Krakovitz is an accomplished leader with a remarkable over two-decade career in national health systems. His previous role was that of President of the Desert Region at Intermountain Health, where he played an instrumental part in expanding healthcare services to include three acute hospitals and 130 care sites, along with managing 1,000 employed physicians and advanced practice providers. His impact is evident through the growth of outpatient imaging, ambulatory surgical centers, urgent care facilities, and comprehensive in-home care services.

Before his tenure at Intermountain Health, Krakovitz served as Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Specialty-Based Care. His extensive experience also includes a significant role at the Cleveland Clinic, where he excelled as Vice Chairman of Surgical Operations and was instrumental in pediatric otolaryngology.

Currently, Krakovitz continues to practice as a pediatric otolaryngologist at the University of Utah, with a special focus on treating ear, nose, and throat disorders among children. His expertise and dedication have garnered recognition from various esteemed publications, further solidifying his status as one of the top physicians in both local and national circles.

Dr. Yun Boylston, Chair of the Cone Health Board of Trustees, expressed the board’s enthusiasm, stating, “Krakovitz embodies the values that define Cone Health. We are thrilled to have him lead our organization into a new era of healthcare innovation.” Dr. Jaewon Ryu, Chief Executive Officer of Risant Health, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing confidence in Dr. Krakovitz to help advance Cone Health's mission to improve community health through value-based care initiatives.

“I am both honored and excited to lead Cone Health at such a pivotal moment,” remarked Dr. Krakovitz. “Cone Health is not just a healthcare provider; it represents a bridge between care and community. I look forward to collaborating with dedicated professionals as we leverage our strengths to further enhance value-based care and promote wellness for our communities.”

In light of this transition, Bernie Sherry, who has been serving as interim CEO since June 1, 2025, will continue in that capacity until Dr. Krakovitz officially assumes the role.

Cone Health has established itself as a premier healthcare institution, recognized for its quality services and commitment to community health. The system comprises 150 physician practices, five hospitals, and several ambulatory care centers, providing a vast spectrum of medical services across North Carolina’s Piedmont region. It also operates under Risant Health, a nationwide leader in value-based healthcare systems, and offers Medicare Advantage insurance through HealthTeam Advantage.

Ranked as the number one health system in the Greensboro/Winston-Salem metro area by U.S. News & World Report, Cone Health is also distinguished by its Family Forward NC certification and recognition as one of the top 100 Best Employers for Diversity by Forbes. As the organization prepares for its new chapter under Dr. Krakovitz's leadership, the focus remains on maintaining high-quality care and community engagement.