IU Health announces new president for its Metro Region

INDIANAPOLIS – After a national search, Indiana University Health is pleased to announce that Michele Saysana, MD, has been named president of the Adult Academic Health Center (IU Health Methodist and University hospitals) and Metro Region, effective July 27.

As president, Dr. Saysana will lead and oversee operations at IU Health’s Methodist and University hospitals in downtown Indianapolis, as well as Metro Region hospitals including IU Health North, IU Health Fishers and IU Health West. She has served in the role as interim president for the past five months, demonstrating strong leadership during a critical time of transition and growth.

In the role, Dr. Saysana will drive strategic direction, expand access to care and further IU Health’s mission to deliver world-class, patient-centered care across Indiana. She will also continue to play a pivotal leadership role in the development of IU Health’s new downtown hospital and medical campus, a transformative project that will enhance the health of Hoosiers and beyond as a destination for healthcare excellence.

“I am honored to accept the role of president for the AAHC and Metro Region,” said Dr. Saysana. “Our teams serve as a vital resource for our communities across Indiana. I look forward to building on our strong legacy of innovation and excellence, supporting the exceptional care our teams provide, and fulfilling our vision of improving the health of all Hoosiers.”

Prior to serving as interim president of the AAHC and Metro Region, Dr. Saysana held the role of senior vice president of academic medicine for IU Health and executive associate dean for clinical affairs at IU School of Medicine. From 2022 to 2024, she was chief medical officer for IU Health’s AAHC in downtown Indianapolis, ensuring the highest quality and service for patients, physicians, and care teams at IU Health Methodist and University hospitals. Her extensive expertise in quality and safety has had a lasting, positive impact on both patients and team members.

In 2006, Dr. Saysana joined the IU School of Medicine faculty and Department of Pediatrics as a pediatric hospitalist. She also is a professor of pediatrics. She has held various roles throughout her time at IU Health, demonstrating consistent leadership and professionalism. In 2017, she was named vice president and served as IU Health’s first chief quality and safety officer.

Dr. Saysana has a long tenure as a member of the Indianapolis Coalition for Patient Safety Board of Directors and recently served as chair of the board. She has also represented IU Health on the national level with Vizient.