Blythedale Children’s Hospital Welcomes Dr. Nathaniel Beers as New President and CEO

Blythedale Children’s Hospital today announced that Nathaniel Beers, MD, MPA, FAAP has officially assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, becoming only the third individual to lead the Hospital in the past 66 years. Dr. Beers succeeds Larry Levine, who concludes a distinguished 26-year tenure as president and CEO.  

Dr. Beers joins Blythedale at a pivotal moment for children’s health care. A nationally recognized pediatrician and health care executive, he brings extensive experience in medicine, public policy, education, and community leadership to the role. He most recently served as Executive Vice President of Community and Population Health at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., and previously held leadership positions across health, education, and social service sectors, including President of the HSC Health Care System, COO and Chief of Specialized Instruction for the D.C. Public Schools, and senior roles within the D.C. Department of Health. 

“Nathaniel Beers is an exceptional leader whose career has been dedicated to improving systems of care for medically complex children and their families,” said Peter D. Rittmaster, Board Chair of Blythedale Children’s Hospital. “He brings an important blend of clinical expertise, executive experience, and policy insight that will guide Blythedale through an era of growth and innovation.” 

Blythedale Children’s Hospital is one of only 15 specialty children’s hospitals in the country, providing expert care to medically fragile children, who make up just seven-tenths of one percent of all children nationwide. With 78% of its patients dependent on Medicaid, Blythedale faces potential fiscal challenges confronting children’s hospitals across the nation, challenges that Dr. Beers is uniquely equipped to meet. 

“It’s an extraordinary honor to join an institution as respected and innovative as Blythedale,” said Dr. Beers. “Throughout my career, I’ve worked to break down the barriers that make life harder for families caring for children with complex needs. I’m excited to build on the strong foundation here and chart a path forward; one that prioritizes excellent care, equity, and empowerment for every family we serve.” 

Dr. Beers earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Rochester, medical degree from The George Washington University, and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. He completed his residency at Children’s National and a child advocacy fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital. He serves on the International Medical Advisory Group for Special Olympics International. 

Levine’s 26 years of leadership represent an era of transformation for Blythedale, which evolved under his direction from a pediatric rehabilitation center into a nationally recognized specialty hospital serving hundreds of children each year. His tenure follows that of Robert Stone, who led the hospital for 40 years, marking Blythedale’s extraordinary history of stability and vision in leadership. 

“We are deeply grateful for Larry’s visionary leadership and tireless advocacy on behalf of our patients and families,” said Rittmaster. “Because of his stewardship, Blythedale is well positioned for continued growth and innovation under Dr. Beers’ direction.”