Hilton Raethel Will Retire as HAH CEO in 2027
The Healthcare Association of Hawaii president will conclude his ten-year tenure in January 2027.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Healthcare
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Healthcare Association of Hawaii President and CEO Hilton R. Raethel has announced he will retire on January 15, 2027. His departure marks the end of a decade-long leadership run at the state organization.
Why it matters
The board of directors is preparing to launch an executive search to find a successor who will build upon the organization's collaborative work. This transition will determine the future direction of the group as it supports hospitals and care facilities across Hawaii.
Hilton R. Raethel concludes his tenure with 10 years at the Healthcare Association of Hawaii following a 35-year career in the industry. The organization continues to serve hospitals, nursing facilities, and other care providers throughout the state.
The players
Hilton R. Raethel
He is the outgoing President and CEO of the Healthcare Association of Hawaii who previously held leadership roles at Hawaii Pacific Health and HMSA.
Healthcare Association of Hawaii
The organization represents hospitals, nursing facilities, and other care organizations throughout the state.
The details
The board of directors will lead an executive search to identify a new leader for the association. During his time at the helm, Raethel worked closely with educational institutions to align healthcare training programs with the state's workforce needs.
Timeline
May 2017: Raethel joined the Healthcare Association of Hawaii.
September 22, 2026: Raethel announced his planned retirement.
January 15, 2027: Raethel will retire as CEO.
Market Landscape
This transition marks a pivotal shift for the association as it seeks to maintain its momentum in workforce development. The board aims to ensure that the new leadership continues the integration between healthcare education and the labor demands of Hawaii's care organizations.
The leadership change aims to ensure continued support for hospitals and care facilities across the islands. Residents and patients should see no disruption in the advocacy and workforce coordination services provided by the association during this transition.
The takeaway
Effective leadership transitions in state healthcare organizations are vital for maintaining alignment between workforce training and community health needs. Ensuring the next CEO maintains these partnerships will be the primary challenge for the board in the coming months.
What happens next
The Healthcare Association of Hawaii board of directors will proceed with an executive search process to identify and appoint a new CEO before the January 15, 2027, retirement date.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's health systems in the Hawaii Healthcare section.
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Do you trust that leadership changes at your local healthcare association will improve patient care?
