Cook Children’s Health Care System Names First Surgeon-in-Chief

Eric Hubli, M.D., FACS, FAAP, is officially the first person to hold the title ‘Surgeon-in-Chief’ at Cook Children’s Health Care System. In his new role, Dr. Hubli will act as the presiding administrative leader over all surgery and procedure-related matters. Dr. Hubli leads the Pediatric Plastic Surgery program, specializing in craniofacial and cleft surgery, at the health care system. Since joining Cook Children’s in 2008, he has also served in administrative roles facilitating innovation and process improvement initiatives. In addition, Dr. Hubli spearheaded efforts to verify Cook Children’s as the first Level I Children’s Surgery Center in North Texas. The certification is sponsored by the American College of Surgeons.

“Dr. Hubli is a service-driven leader who has a demonstrated commitment to our mission, as well as in-depth knowledge and experience in the operating room,” said Rick W. Merrill, president and CEO of Cook Children’s. “Having a Surgeon-in-Chief will allow Cook Children’s to further open the line of communication and identify opportunities for surgical advancement, ultimately leading to an even better experience for our patients and their families.”

Dr. Hubli has more than 30 years of experience as a surgeon. He received his medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and later obtained a master’s degree in Health Care Management from Harvard University. He is also a father who knows what it’s like to have a child in the hospital.

“I know firsthand, from when my own son spent time here, that Cook Children’s provides stellar treatment and service from all levels and in all corners of the hospital,” Dr. Hubli said. “My son, like every patient that comes to us, expected the most up-to-date interventions. What he received went a step beyond, in that he was truly cared for. I’m hopeful more people will learn about the incredible legacy of excellence we have here.”

Dr. Hubli has also served in roles at The Lahey Clinic, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston University and Boston City Hospitals.