Dennis W. Pullin, FACHE, president and CEO of Virtua Health, has been named one of Modern Healthcare’s 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare for 2025. This is the second time Pullin has received this recognition from the national health care publication. The list is featured in the December issue of Modern Healthcare magazine and on its website.
Honorees are selected by Modern Healthcare journalists based on their leadership and impact in the industry. Mary Ellen Podmolik, editor-in-chief of Modern Healthcare, said: “Influence can be exerted in many ways, but regardless of whether it is used to internally shape organizations, the healthcare industry as a whole, or both, playing a positive role benefits patients and the professionals responsible for their health. Our ranked list of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare highlights the executives in all corners of the industry who are striving to advance medicine and how care is delivered—and succeeding in doing so.”
John Matsinger, DO, MBA, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Virtua Health commented: “Dennis is a passionate, purposeful leader and innovative thinker who’s made vital contributions to both Virtua and the health care industry for many years. Dennis is always open to new ideas for how we can deliver better care, and he is laser-focused on creating the best possible experience for our patients and community, as well as our workforce.”
Pullin has also been recognized by other organizations over recent years. In 2024 he was named one of America’s Top 10 Healthcare Leaders by Healthcare Digital. He was included among Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Diversity Leaders in Healthcare in 2024 as well as two previous years. In addition to being recognized as one of Modern Healthcare’s Top Innovators previously, Pullin was also listed among its 100 Most Influential People nationwide last year.
Since joining Virtua Health as CEO in 2017, Pullin has become known nationally as a thought leader on health equity. He regularly speaks at conferences across the country and recently authored a best-selling book titled “Suited for Leadership.” He also hosts a podcast called “Here for Good,” where he interviews leaders from various industries.
Under Pullin’s leadership this year alone, Virtua Health has been recognized with several workplace honors. Newsweek named Virtua to its lists of America’s Greatest Workplaces overall as well as specifically within healthcare. It was also listed among Newsweek’s Best Places to Work for Women earlier this year. Additionally, Virtua became New Jersey’s only health system included on Modern Healthcare’s Best Places to Work in Healthcare list for 2025.
Virtua Health also earned recognition from Forbes on its list of America’s Best Companies for 2026.
Before joining Virtua Health in New Jersey, Pullin held executive roles at hospitals in Baltimore; Washington D.C.; and Texas—his home state. He currently serves on the American Hospital Association Board of Trustees and previously served on that board with New Jersey Hospital Association. In addition to his work with hospital associations he joined Hillenbrand Inc.’s Board of Directors in 2021.