After nearly a year as interim leader, Dr. Erik Mikaitis was nominated Wednesday as the permanent CEO of Cook County Health. [Health News Illinois]

The decision by the health system's board of directors follows an eight-month national search to replace Israel Rocha Jr., who stepped down last December. 

Lyndon Taylor, board chair, said in a statement that Mikaitis “stood out in the field of multiple high-caliber candidates for his commitment to quality and process improvement, strategic vision and dedication to the health system’s mission.”

The Cook County Board of Commissioners is set to consider the appointment next week.

Mikaitis began as interim CEO last December. He joined the organization in 2022 as chief quality officer.

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