Dr. Meena Bhatia Named to 2026–2027 Executive Leadership in Health Care (ELH) Cohort 

UNC Department of Anesthesiology congratulates Professor of Anesthesiology and Vice Chair of Clinical Operations Meena Bhatia, MD, on her selection to the 2026–2027 cohort of the Executive Leadership in Health Care (ELH) program. Dr. Bhatia’s selection reflects her outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing perioperative care, clinical operations, and patient-centered excellence at UNC Health and the UNC School of Medicine. As Vice Chair of Clinical Operations, Dr. Bhatia has played an instrumental role in strengthening operational efficiency, multidisciplinary collaboration, and quality initiatives across UNC Department of Anesthesiology.

ELH is a nationally recognized leadership development program designed for senior healthcare leaders who are shaping the future of healthcare delivery and academic medicine. The year-long fellowship focuses on strategic leadership, organizational transformation, finance, communication, and systems innovation. It also fosters a collaborative national network of accomplished healthcare executives and physician leaders.

Ted Sakai, MD, PhD, MHA, FASA, noted: “Dr. Bhatia is a nationally respected leader in cardiothoracic anesthesiology and critical care and has made significant contributions to clinical care, education, mentorship, and institutional leadership throughout her career.  Her participation in the ELH program further recognizes her commitment to innovative leadership and excellence in healthcare delivery.”