OU Health Recruits Top Pediatric Leader to Advance Care, Research and Training

Michael Steiner, M.D., M.P.H., a nationally recognized physician leader in pediatric medicine and health services research, has been named chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and clinical service chief of pediatrics at OU Health. In these dual roles, Steiner will lead the department’s clinical, research and educational missions, advancing the University of Oklahoma’s academic health system and its commitment to excellence in pediatric care, innovation and training. He will begin in his new role in December 2025.

Steiner’s role marks a pivotal moment for pediatric health in Oklahoma. As the state’s only academic health system, OU Health is uniquely positioned to lead in advancing care, research and training. Under Steiner’s leadership, the Department of Pediatrics will expand access to high-quality care, accelerate discovery in child health, and prepare the next generation of pediatric specialists to serve communities across the state and region.

“Dr. Steiner is a proven leader in academic pediatrics whose experience and energy will strengthen our department and elevate children’s health across Oklahoma,” said Dr. Ian Dunn, M.D., FACS, FAANS, executive dean of the OU College of Medicine and chief physician executive at OU Health. “He brings a deep understanding of clinical care, research and education, and a clear commitment to working alongside our faculty, learners and partners to advance our mission.”

Proven Record of Advancing Pediatric Care

Steiner joins OU Health from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, where he served as professor of pediatrics, executive vice chair of the Department of Pediatrics, and pediatrician-in-chief at UNC Children’s Hospital. Over nearly two decades, he led clinical, research and educational programs that expanded access to care, strengthened statewide pediatric networks and advanced health equity.

He recruited more than 45 pediatric specialists, directed three clinical divisions and developed a regional campus with more than 80 pediatric subspecialists. He also built more than 30 affiliated partnerships to extend pediatric outreach across North Carolina. His research, focused on improving care for children with medical complexity, has secured more than $20 million in external funding.

As pediatrician-in-chief, Steiner spearheaded systemwide efforts to expand quality and access to children’s care across North Carolina. His commitment to outreach, equity, and innovation has shaped pediatric programs that reach diverse and underserved communities.

“Dr. Steiner brings outstanding leadership experience and a clear vision for advancing pediatric care,” said Dr. Richard Lofgren, M.D., MPH, FACP, president and CEO of OU Health. “His track record of expanding access, building strong care networks and fostering academic excellence will be vital as we strengthen our mission to serve children and families across Oklahoma’s 77 counties and beyond.”

As department chair and clinical service chief, Steiner will guide faculty, staff and learners in patient care, discovery and education. He will also play a central role in strengthening Oklahoma Children’s OU Health as the state’s leader in comprehensive pediatric services. The Department of Pediatrics is the largest within the OU College of Medicine, reflecting its vital role in training future physicians and advancing child health across Oklahoma.

Upholding a Tradition of Serving Children and Families

Steiner earned his medical degree from Temple University in Philadelphia. He completed a combined medicine and pediatrics residency at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following residency, he served as a primary care physician with the National Health Service Corps in Lake Isabella, California. He then joined the faculty at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the University of Southern California/Keck School of Medicine, where he completed a fellowship in Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND). In 2006, Steiner returned to UNC to begin a career defined by leadership in clinical care, education and research.

Steiner will succeed Robert Katz, M.D., who is retiring after decades of leadership, scholarship and service to children and families across Oklahoma. Under Katz’s guidance, the Department of Pediatrics grew in scope and impact, earning recognition for its commitment to clinical excellence, education and community engagement. His legacy leaves a strong foundation for the next chapter in advancing pediatric health through OU Health’s academic mission.