Island Health is excited to welcome Colin Walker, MHA, as its new Chief of Ambulatory Services. Walker, who was most recently Regional Director of Ambulatory Quality and Population Health at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, started earlier this month.

Walker is a Pacific Northwest native with more than 20 years of healthcare leadership experience spanning ambulatory operations, quality improvement, value-based care and community health. He has built and led high-performing teams across complex healthcare systems, with a focus on improving access, advancing quality outcomes and delivering exceptional patient experiences.

As Chief of Ambulatory Services, Walker will execute Island Health’s strategic plan, specifically related to the focus on improving outpatient services to meet the need for timely, patient-focused primary and specialty care. Walker replaced Practice Administrator Marcy Shimada, who retired earlier this year.

Walker earned his undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and his graduate degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of Washington. He is an Anacortes resident and enjoys all things active and outdoors, including spending time with his young family. He is also an assistant football coach at Anacortes High School.

Chief Executive Officer Elise Cutter said Walker’s strong background in healthcare leadership and community involvement set him apart.

“Colin brings extensive expertise in leading diverse outpatient services, along with a strong commitment to community engagement. We are thrilled to welcome him to the executive leadership team,” Cutter said.