Insights on Navigating Uncertainty From an ER Doctor-ceo

WHO:

Fast Company - John D’Angelo, president and CEO of Northwell Health

Inc - John D’Angelo, CEO of Northwell Health and former emergency medicine physician

WHAT:

Fast Company - Northwell Health completed its acquisition of Nuvance Health, creating a combined entity with 28 hospitals and more than 100,000 employees.

Fast Company - Northwell Health reported $23.1 billion in operating revenue in 2025.

Fast Company - D’Angelo described his first months as CEO as akin to a shift in the emergency room, managing multiple priorities and uncertainties.

Fast Company - D’Angelo provided four leadership tips for handling uncertainty: making decisions with incomplete data, focusing on vital signs, triaging time, and building commitment.

WHERE:

Fast Company - Northwell Health is based in New Hyde Park, New York.

WHEN:

Fast Company - John D’Angelo became president and CEO of Northwell Health in October.

Fast Company - D’Angelo led Northwell’s COVID response team.

WHY:

Fast Company - D’Angelo was drawn to emergency medicine due to the uncertainty involved in diagnosing patients.

HOW:

Fast Company - D’Angelo emphasized the importance of prioritizing high-impact unknowns and acting on best judgment when complete information is unavailable.

Fast Company - He advised leaders to focus on key indicators of success rather than distractions.

Fast Company - D’Angelo suggested that leaders should connect employees to the institution’s purpose to enhance resilience and reduce burnout.

(UPDATED July 13, 2026 11:52 UTC)

Northwell Health has successfully completed its acquisition of Nuvance Health, resulting in a combined organization that boasts 28 hospitals and over 100,000 employees. John D’Angelo, who became CEO of Northwell Health in October, shared insights from his leadership journey, emphasizing the need to make decisions with incomplete data and to focus on key indicators of success. He also highlighted the importance of connecting employees to the institution's purpose to enhance resilience and reduce burnout in the face of uncertainty.