In 2003, Dr. John D’Angelo reached out to Northwell CEO Michael Dowling, urging influential figures to start a wage gap initiative aimed at transitioning the healthcare system into a more private model.
“He had no idea who I was since I was relatively new, just three years into my role,” D’Angelo recounted, reflecting on his time splitting duties as a frontline worker at Glencove Hospital while also serving in the Army Reserve.
“He replied saying, ‘Absolutely, we’re doing this.’ That really meant a lot to me,” he expressed.
After 23 years leading Northwell, Dowling has appointed D’Angelo as his successor as CEO.
“I’m excited to be part of this next chapter,” D’Angelo said, acknowledging Dowling’s tremendous work ethic and journey from Ireland. “He’s the kind of leader you look up to, not just because of his position, but his character.”
Despite their different backgrounds and leadership styles, D’Angelo believes they share a strong commitment to their mission. He noted his move from the West Bronx to West Babylon, mentioning the support of his family.
“That’s not going to change,” he affirmed, standing at Northwell’s new Hyde Park office.
While Dowling has excelled in the management of public health, D’Angelo’s experience has been hands-on. He began his career as a flight physician, responding to emergencies aboard helicopters during his residency at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania.
“There are countless stories about bringing patients back from the edge,” he remarked, though he noted the somber reality of the job.
“When we recall those stories, it’s about the vital work we do and the purpose behind it,” he added.
Frontline Day
Since those early days, D’Angelo has worked in ambulances and operated in high-pressure situations, often reviving trauma patients before they reach the operating room.
Initially, he had considered a more traditional orthopedic path but soon became captivated by the dynamics of emergency medicine and patient assessment.
“I developed a lot of street credibility during that time. People began to see me as someone who could get things done,” he shared.
“That trust expanded my opportunities and really pushed me to rethink how we operate,” he explained.
Building on that trust, his team integrated technology to create a “real-time suite,” which remains in use today.
In the past, D’Angelo has also taken charge during crises, from handling hurricane responses to overseeing operations during the Ebola outbreak and the pandemic. He described that period as both frightening and rewarding.
“Covid revealed a lot about what the medical field will need moving forward,” he noted.
As Northwell integrates with Connecticut’s Nuvans Health—an alignment finalized in May—D’Angelo is ready to establish a new legacy.
“I believe we’ll see substantial progress in our first year, which is crucial,” he said.
On his first day, D’Angelo plans to connect with staff across Northwell facilities.
“It’s important to me to engage with our team, to express my gratitude and address any questions,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it.”
