PHOENIX [December 17, 2025] – Phoenix Children’s, one of the top-ranked pediatric health systems in the West, announced today that Ashish S. Patel, MD, physician-in-chief, has been elected to the American Pediatric Society (APS), a renowned group dedicated to changing the future of academic pediatrics.
“This recognition reflects both my journey in medicine and our shared commitment at Phoenix Children’s to improving the lives of children,” said Dr. Patel. “It honors the values instilled in me by my physician parents and I hope it also inspires our junior faculty to pursue their goals and continue shaping the future of pediatric healthcare.”
Founded in 1888, APS honors leaders who have made significant contributions to advancing child and adolescent health through research, education, leadership and clinical excellence. Dr. Patel joins a distinguished community of physicians, scientists and educators whose work has earned national and international recognition. Membership in APS is widely regarded as one of the highest honors in academic pediatrics, fostering collaboration among leaders through research, advocacy, education and professional development.
“Dr. Patel’s election to the American Pediatric Society is a meaningful recognition of his continued contributions to the field of medicine and exemplifies the strength of our academic and clinical work at Phoenix Children’s,” said Phoenix Children’s President and CEO John R. Nickens IV. “He represents the values at the heart of our health system, and we are proud to see him honored among the nation’s leading pediatric physicians.”
As physician-in-chief at Phoenix Children’s, Dr. Patel provides clinical and administrative leadership to key operations including emergency and diagnostic medicine, the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, the aerodigestive clinic and medical subspecialties. He also oversees hospital medicine, behavioral health and Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics, while remaining actively involved in patient care and academic mentorship as a practicing pediatric gastroenterologist.
Dr. Patel joined Phoenix Children’s in 2020 as division chief of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition, where he grew the division to more than 25 physicians and 55 specialists, dietitians, nurses and medical assistants. He also helped establish Phoenix Children’s first Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education accredited gastroenterology fellowship program — the first of its kind in Arizona — underscoring his commitment to training the next generation of pediatric specialists.