Leadership Transition at KFF: A New Era for Health Policy Analysis

The health policy landscape is set for a significant transformation as KFF, formerly known as the Kaiser Family Foundation, announced that its long-standing leader, Dr. Drew Altman, will retire as President and CEO on December 31, 2026. This transition marks the end of an influential nearly 40-year tenure that helped define how the United States approaches health policy, public health journalism, and data-driven analysis.

A Legacy of Data-Driven Health Policy

Since arriving in 1990 to lead what was then the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, Dr. Altman has been the architect of the organization’s evolution into a uniquely influential institution. Under his stewardship, KFF integrated rigorous policy research, sophisticated survey and polling programs, and professional health journalism. This multi-faceted approach—most recently epitomized by the launch of KFF Health News—has provided a nonpartisan bedrock for lawmakers, media outlets, and the general public.

KFF’s research has been instrumental in navigating complex national debates, from the implementation of the Affordable Care Act to the complexities of Medicare and Medicaid funding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization’s COVID-19 Vaccine Monitor served as an essential tool for tracking public sentiment and vaccine uptake, proving the organization’s ability to provide real-time, evidence-based insights during global crises.

The Future of KFF: A Dual-Leadership Model

Following a deliberate succession planning process led by the KFF Board of Trustees, the organization has selected two veteran executives to guide its future. Starting in January 2027, Larry Levitt will assume the role of CEO, and Dr. Mollyann Brodie will become President.

Both incoming leaders have served as core members of Dr. Altman’s executive team for over a decade, ensuring continuity of the organization’s mission and culture:

• Larry Levitt: Currently the Executive Vice President for Health Policy, Levitt has led the organization’s deep-dive analysis into Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance markets. His work focuses on the intersection of policy and the practical realities of the U.S. Healthcare system.
• Dr. Mollyann Brodie: As the current Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Brodie oversees the organization’s operations and its nationally recognized Public Opinion and Survey Research program. A recipient of the American Association for Public Opinion Research’s (AAPOR) Award for Exceptionally Distinguished Achievement, she is a leading authority on public attitudes toward health policy.

Key Takeaways: Looking Ahead

As KFF enters this new chapter, the incoming leadership team has emphasized their commitment to maintaining the organization’s independent, nonpartisan status. In an era often characterized by public distrust in institutional data, the transition aims to reinforce the role of evidence-based analysis in the national discourse.

What to Expect from the New Leadership

• Consistency in Mission: Both Levitt and Dr. Brodie have stated their intention to continue KFF’s focus on how health policies affect individual lives.
• Focus on Trust: Amidst a polarized political climate, the organization plans to double down on providing timely, credible facts to help the public navigate complex healthcare debates.
• Smooth Transition: Dr. Altman will remain in his position through the end of 2026, working closely with his successors to ensure a seamless handoff of leadership responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is KFF?

KFF (formerly the Kaiser Family Foundation) is a non-profit organization focused on national health issues. It is widely regarded as an authoritative, nonpartisan source for health policy research, public opinion polling, and health journalism.

When does the leadership change take effect?

Dr. Drew Altman will retire on December 31, 2026. Larry Levitt and Dr. Mollyann Brodie will officially step into their new roles as CEO and President, respectively, on January 1, 2027.

Will KFF change its research focus?

While the leadership is changing, the organization’s core mission remains the same: providing independent, evidence-based research on health policy, access to care, and the impact of healthcare systems on the American public. The transition is designed to prioritize continuity and stability.

Dr. Natalie Singh is a board-certified internal medicine physician and public health expert. She provides evidence-based analysis on the intersection of medical policy, health systems, and public wellness.