Partners in Care Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of former honoree and member of Partners’ Board of Councilor, Robert E. Tranquada M.D. He has been a strong ally of Partners for close to 20 years and was deeply committed to improving healthcare quality. Partners’ awarded him with its “Vision & Excellence in Healthcare Leadership” Award in 2003.
“Dr. Tranquada was a legendary leader who inspired us all with his grace, his gentle strength, his wisdom and his continuing passion for social justice. Admired for character as well as accomplishment, we will miss him greatly” said June Simmons, CEO of Partners in Care Foundation.
He died at 92-years-old in Pomona on Sunday, December 4, 2023.
Dr. Tranquada was a diabetes researcher turned public health advocate and was instrumental in increasing access to healthcare for underserved communities. He was also an advocate for increasing the number of women and people of color in medicine, serving as a long-time member of the board of National Medical Fellowships, a nonprofit that provides scholarships and support for underrepresented students in medicine and the health professions.
Dr. Tranquada was the former USC Keck School of Medicine dean, a Christopher Commission member, and the founding board member and chair of L.A. Care, today the country’s largest publicly operated health plan.
Dr. Tranquada’s leadership initiated and shaped so many health care organizations. Even after retirement, his leadership continued with service on many local and national health care charitable, higher education, and civic boards, and as an author of numerous medical and policy articles.
A memorial will be held at Pomona College in January. Memorial gifts can be made to the Robert E. ’51 and Janet ’51 Tranquada Scholarship Fund at Pomona College or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Partners’ extends its deepest sympathies to Dr. Tranquada’s family and loved ones. We honor his life, his wisdom, compassion, and grace.
