Dr. Travis Gayles Appointed as New CEO of Howard Brown Health: A Commitment to Inclusive Care
Dr. Travis Gayles Takes the Helm at Howard Brown Health
Howard Brown Health, recognized as the leading health center in the Midwest committed to inclusive care, announced today the appointment of Dr. Travis Gayles as its new Chief Executive Officer. His extensive experience as a health leader positions him to make significant contributions in addressing health equity and innovation.
A Leader Committed to Health Equity
Dr. Gayles brings a robust background in public health, having served as Chief Health and Medical Officer for various public and private institutions. His track record includes numerous successful public health initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing disparities. With over 200 candidates considered during a nationwide search, Dr. Gayles was unanimously chosen for his comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly in relation to the LGBTQ+ community—a key focus for Howard Brown Health.
"Howard Brown Health has a renowned legacy of support for LGBTQ+ communities in Chicago, and I am passionate about expanding that impact," stated Dr. Gayles. He aims to amplify the organization's voice, tackling systemic barriers in healthcare and combating misinformation through a data-driven approach paired with compassionate care. Dr. Gayles officially steps into the role on March 3, 2025.
Vision and Strategy for the Future
In his new leadership position, Dr. Gayles is determined to bridge health gaps and serve as a leading voice in health equity. His approach will involve building strategic partnerships that enhance healthcare access for marginalized groups. “With my experience, I look forward to helping guide Howard Brown Health's mission as we confront inequities and strive for excellence in care delivery,” he commented.
Mike Mazzeo, Chair of the Board of Directors, expressed confidence in Dr. Gayles' leadership: “His expertise and dedication to health justice will propel our work forward, advancing equity across communities that face barriers to care.”
Currently under the capable leadership of Interim CEO Dr. Robin Gay, the organization has maintained operational stability during this transition. Dr. Gay will continue to support Dr. Gayles before resuming her position as Chief Dental Officer, ensuring a smooth transition for both the staff and community.
A Milestone Year
As Howard Brown Health approaches its 50th anniversary, the appointment of Dr. Gayles heralds a transformative chapter for the organization. His leadership aligns with their goals of modernizing care delivery while maintaining their comprehensive and inclusive healthcare philosophy. Dr. Gayles is committed to ensuring high-quality health services resonate in both urban and broader regional contexts, facing forward toward a future where everyone can enjoy dignified and equitable healthcare.
Howard Brown Health serves more than 38,000 individuals across its seven centers in Chicago, offering primary medical care, youth services, and prevention programs. They are well-known as the largest LGBTQ+ health center in the Midwest, continuously dedicated to providing care regardless of patients' ability to pay or insurance status, further highlighting Dr. Gayles' focus on inclusivity.
In conclusion, Dr. Gayles’ leadership is set to enhance Howard Brown Health’s mission of equality and inclusivity in healthcare. As the organization navigates this new chapter, it holds the promise of advancing health equity while ensuring the core values of compassion and innovation thrive. With Dr. Gayles at the forefront, Howard Brown Health aspires to lead the way in creating systemic change in healthcare accessibility.