Patrick Frias Assumed Role as Children's Healthcare CEO
The veteran executive took the helm of the Atlanta-based pediatric health system in August 2026.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Children’s Health
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Patrick Frias officially became the CEO of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta in August 2026. He replaced long-time leader Donna Hyland, who retired after guiding the organization since 2008.
Why it matters
The leadership change arrives as the health system pursues a strategic goal of ensuring all metro Atlanta families live within 30 minutes of pediatric care. This initiative seeks to eliminate service gaps in the region.
The system currently serves 1 million patients per year and maintains a dedicated pediatric mental health workforce of 300 professionals. Since late June 2026, a new clinic in Adamsville has already provided care to 500 patients.
The players
Patrick Frias
He is the current CEO of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta who returned to the organization after previously working there.
Donna Hyland
She served as the leader of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta for 18 years before her retirement in 2026.
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
This is a major pediatric health system serving the metropolitan Atlanta area with a focus on both physical and mental health.
Mercer University School of Medicine
This institution partners with health systems to provide medical scholarships and expand rural healthcare innovation.
The details
Children's Healthcare is bolstering its provider workforce through high school internships and a scholarship partnership with the Mercer University School of Medicine. This academic collaboration currently supports 34 medical students focused on pediatric primary care.
Timeline
Donna Hyland began her tenure as CEO in 2008.
Patrick Frias departed the organization in 2018.
A new primary care office opened in Adamsville in late June 2026.
Patrick Frias assumed the CEO role in August 2026.
The Big Picture
The health system's partnership with Mercer University extends the reach of the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center into urban pediatric care deserts.
Families in the metro Atlanta area can expect expanded access to local primary care clinics as the system prioritizes shorter travel times for services. This growth strategy aims to improve health outcomes by placing pediatric resources within 30 minutes of local residents.
The takeaway
The transition to new leadership signals a continued commitment to geographic accessibility for pediatric medical services in Atlanta. Residents should watch for upcoming developments regarding the expansion project on the newly acquired land in Sandy Springs.
Further reading
For more background on regional pediatric initiatives, visit our Children’s Health section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Becker's Hospital Review | Healthcare News & Analysis.
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Should local healthcare systems prioritize placing clinics within a short drive of every family?
