CAN Community Health recently appointed Rishi Patel, PharmD, MBA, AAHIVP as president and chief executive officer. Dr. Patel joined the healthcare nonprofit as chief pharmacy officer in 2015 and was appointed interim president and CEO in July 2021.

Dr. Patel holds a Doctorate of Pharmacy from Nova Southeastern University, an MBA from Florida Gulf Coast University, and a Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology from the University of Florida.  

In making the announcement, Jackie Rogers, chairwoman of the CAN Board of Directors, said, “Within the short seven months of his Interim leadership, Dr. Patel has inspired our CAN family to increase commitment to their roles, improve communication, increase workflows and productivity, and think more creatively. We believe he is an incredible selection to lead CAN into our next 30 years.”

In accepting the appointment, Dr. Patel said, “It is really our team of professionals here at CAN who deserve the credit. They inspire me every day with their dedication and enthusiasm. As we reach out to communities in need, they keep us on course and discover new and innovative pathways with which to deliver, expand and refine our services.”  

Since July 2021, new patient visits have increased to 4,755 in 2021 from 1,830 in 2020. CAN receive additional funding this year for comprehensive prevention services in Columbia, South Carolina, Arlington, Texas, and Jacksonville, Florida. This funding will further enhance the current services offered within these communities. CAN also was awarded a renewal of their Ryan White contract in Sarasota, North Port, and Cape Coral locations. Additionally in Phoenix, Arizona, CAN was awarded funding to provide harm reduction services.