Dr. Robert McGregor will retire on Dec.15, 2024.
Throughout his 12 years at Akron Children’s, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Robert McGregor helped transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
During COVID, Dr. McGregor co-led the Hospital Incident Command System (HICS) at Akron Children’s, working 12- to 15-hour days for weeks. Despite the grueling schedule, supporting the staff and patients was one of his most memorable experiences. “It was a time where I felt as connected to our mission as I ever have.”
Dr. McGregor reads to a young patient.
It also solidified the need to address the mental health of providers. Before the pandemic, Dr. McGregor helped create a barrier-free mental health program for medical professionals. In the 3 ½ years since the Akron Physicians Wellness Initiative (APWI) started, it’s served over 450 providers, with half of all Akron Children’s trainees (residents and fellows) using the service at least once during their three years.
“It’s been pretty impactful for those who’ve used it,” Dr. McGregor said.
Medical staff leadership present the 2024 Doctors’ Day donation to APWI.
After 35 years as a pediatrician, Dr. McGregor will be retiring on Dec. 15, 2024, but the programs he pioneered will continue to provide support for years to come.
What brought you to Children’s? Who gave you your start?
A friend was looking at the position and called me to talk through some questions. When his family decided relocation wasn’t an option, he insisted that I at least look at it. So, I met with (former CEO) Mr. Considine and Dr. Novak on Father’s Day, then Shawn Lyden sealed the deal.
What was going on in your life then?
I was the interim chair of pediatrics at Drexel University at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in North Philly. I was also the internal candidate to be permanent chair but found the Akron Children’s culture to be a much better fit.
Other than new buildings and construction, how has Akron Children’s changed since you started here?
Physician leaders have developed more of a children’s hospital lens to actively contribute with more alignment of our promises across disciplines as well as within their smaller teams. The openness for all to recognize the need for self-care has shifted and the new Lyra product is a great added benefit for every employee!
What do you look forward to the most in retirement?
I’m excited to be free from 24/7 availability (except to my family and closest friends), returning to my more rigorous fitness/wellness regimes and starting my new executive coaching business.
What gave you the most satisfaction at work?
I really enjoyed growing and coaching our chairs, recruiting multiple newer chairs and working with our talented VPs and executives. I love to see our folks grow when challenged. Also, especially recently, I appreciate being empowered to address the issues which keep me up at night, such as elevating the psychiatric services to become a Department of Psychiatry, given the growing need for a continuum of services and access.
With so many children here, did someone or something especially touch your heart?
Being a pediatrician for 35 years, I have too many heartfelt memories to name. But I would like to highlight an Amish girl who went through a tumultuous journey. This situation was a pivotal growth opportunity for me to really learn to meet families where they are. The relationships we have developed with the Amish since, and my sincere friendships with her relatives and the wise Amish elders who gracefully partnered with Akron Children’s for enhanced trust, has been one of my most memorable and cherished experiences at Akron Children’s.
What couldn’t you live without?
I couldn’t live without my wife, family and close friends, and pasta or pizza on Friday “cheat” night!
Do you have any advice for people just starting at Children’s?
Get engaged – bring positive solutions forward, develop a best friend at work and make sure you can find joy in at least 20% of your work. It is “OK to not always be OK,” but reach out when that happens and remember that self-care is never selfish.
