Distinguished alumnus Amir Dan Rubin shares his insights on healthcare, leadership and innovation

Amir Dan Rubin with the Michigan Public Health logo and the words: Amir Dan Rubin, healthcare innovator and entrepreneur Ahead of the Curve

ANN ARBOR—The University of Michigan School of Public Health, in conjunction with the Griffith Leadership Center, recently hosted a pivotal conversation between Amir Dan Rubin, MHSA ’96, MBA ’96, a trailblazer in healthcare innovation, and Dean F. DuBois Bowman

Rubin, who has guided several leading health organizations during his career and currently serves as the CEO and founding managing partner of Healthier Capital, shared his journey and insights into healthcare, leadership and technological advancements.

The Ahead of the Curve leadership speaker series was held Oct. 25 at the Sheraton Ann Arbor Hotel as part of the Griffith Leadership Center’s biennial institute, a forum dedicated to discussions with contemporary leaders. Bowman kicked off the session by highlighting Rubin’s extensive career in healthcare transformation.

LEARN MORE about Michigan Public Health. 

Rubin previously served as the chair and CEO of One Medical, a tech-enabled primary care company that went public in 2020 and subsequently was acquired by Amazon in early 2023. At Amazon, Rubin pioneered the integration of One Medical’s membership as part of the Prime membership.

Rubin’s keynote address focused on healthcare innovation through technology. He described the mission behind Healthier Capital, emphasizing its commitment to advancing healthier outcomes for all.

“We take that really seriously,” he said, discussing how the venture capital firm invests in startups that creatively solve problems in healthcare using cutting-edge technology such as AI and innovative software solutions. Rubin elaborated on his experiences at One Medical, emphasizing the importance of integrating technology to simplify patient care.

During the discussion, Rubin identified several pressing issues in healthcare, including patient access, clinician burnout and the complexities of coordinating care. He said the growing demands on the healthcare system are due to an aging population, reinforcing the need for innovative solutions that can streamline processes and improve care delivery.

A Michigan Public Health education can be a transformative experience that profoundly impacts individuals, communities and, hopefully, the world.” 

— Amir Dan Rubin

Rubin shared concrete examples from startups backed by Healthier Capital.

For instance, he discussed Ezra, a New York-based company that develops FDA-approved AI software to expedite MRIs; and Hiro Health, which uses AI agents to automate healthcare contact center communications.

“These AI tools can help answer questions swiftly and integrate seamlessly into existing Electronic Health Records (EHRs),” said Rubin, showcasing the potential of technological advancements to alleviate various operational burdens in healthcare.

Reflecting on his time at the University of Michigan, Rubin praised the collaborative and transformative environment of Michigan Public Health.

“It’s so fun seeing so many of our colleagues here, and we are really connected—this Michigan family,” he said.

Rubin, who earned his Master of Health Services Administration from the Department of Health Management & Policy alongside his wife, Nicole Rubin, MHSA ’95, highlighted the invaluable educational foundation and lifelong networks forged at the university.

“A Michigan Public Health education can be a transformative experience that profoundly impacts individuals, communities and, hopefully, the world,” Amir Dan Rubin said. “For instance, it has revolutionized the management of diseases with the development of the polio vaccine, and the Health Management & Policy program has produced numerous leaders who run incredible institutions.”

Bowman echoed these sentiments, noting the importance of foundational skills and continuous learning in preparing students to become cutting-edge leaders in healthcare. Rubin advised current students to be passionate and prepared to work hard.

“You have to learn how to keep learning, keep being inquisitive,” he said, underscoring the fast-paced evolution of the healthcare field. It also helps “if you're fortunate enough to marry a graduate from the Department of Health Management & Policy at the University of Michigan— you get a lot of great free consulting advice.”

Nicole Rubin is the founder and principal of Impact Solutions LLC and has worked with Ronald McDonald House Charities Inc. as a consultant and advisor for more than a decade.

Apart from their professional achievements, the Rubins have remained deeply engaged with Michigan Public Health and the university. In 2023, they provided a transformational gift to establish the Rubin Department Chair of Health Management & Policy. Amir serves on the Griffith Leadership Center Advisory Board, and Nicole sits on the Dean’s Advisory Board. They also are co-chairs for the university’s newly launched Look to Michigan fundraising campaign.

SUPPORT research and engaged learning at Michigan Public Health.

Rubin explained his motivation: “Engaging with these leaders and investing in positive change in the world, especially with like-minded individuals, is a great privilege.”

Near the discussion’s conclusion, Rubin shared his excitement about the future of healthcare innovation and his role at Healthier Capital.

“I think now, in retrospect, I kind of like the steep part of the curve," he said, expressing his eagerness to explore new technological frontiers in healthcare.

Rubin left the audience with a final piece of advice to the Michigan Public Health community: “Get after it. Take initiative and take advantage of all the opportunities that we have here at Michigan.”


Tags