Island Health announced today that Elise Cutter has decided to step away from her role as Chief Executive Officer. Cutter has been with the organization for over 20 years, serving as CEO for the last five. During her tenure, Cutter led the organization through significant expansion of primary and specialty services, facility and technology upgrades, and led advocacy work to advance rural healthcare on the local, state and federal levels. She has agreed to remain in place until an interim CEO is onboarded.

“We are extremely grateful for Elise’s leadership and dedication to improving access to healthcare in our community. Her unwavering commitment has been inspiring,” said Lynne Lang, Island Health Board President. “While our leadership changes, our purpose and strategic plan remain. We look forward to welcoming our next leader, who will build on our strong foundation and carry our momentum forward.”

Cutter will work closely with Island Health’s senior leadership team and the Board of Commissioners to ensure continuity and steady operations until an interim CEO is named.

The Board of Commissioners will lead a national search for Island Health’s next permanent CEO. The search will prioritize a leader who can carry forward Island Health’s strategic plan and its commitment to Island Health purpose: to be the best healthcare partner for those we serve.

“It has been my honor to work for Island Health for over 20 years. I am and have always been passionate about Island Health, its patients and staff, and ensuring quality healthcare remains in this community. I am excited for what is next for Island Health and know the team remains unwavering in their commitment to care for this community,” said Cutter.

“Change in health care is a constant,” said Lang. “Island Health has proven time and again that we are resilient, rising to new challenges to advance the health and well-being of our community.”

About Island Health

Island Health is a public hospital district serving Fidalgo, Cypress, Guemes, and Sinclair islands, and a convenient option for patients from north Whidbey Island and La Conner. We also operate a primary care clinic on Orcas Island, where we’re the closest acute care hospital for many San Juan Island residents. With three primary care clinics and eight specialty care clinics, Island Health strives to be the best healthcare partner for those we serve so patients don’t have to travel far to receive exceptional healthcare. Learn more at www.islandhealth.org.