The Cleveland medical community is mourning the loss of Dr. Fred C. Rothstein, who passed away on August 6, 2025, at the age of 74.
A visionary leader, dedicated physician, and tireless advocate for patient care, Dr. Rothstein devoted nearly 40 years to University Hospitals (UH), serving in numerous capacities—including as president of University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center from 2003 to 2015.
His leadership left a profound and lasting impact on the institution, its staff, and the thousands of patients who benefited from his work. Dr. Rothstein’s career at UH was marked by both innovation and compassion.
Before stepping into his presidential role, he held various leadership positions within the hospital system, each demonstrating his deep commitment to advancing medical care and supporting the physicians, nurses, and staff who delivered it.
Colleagues recall his steady, thoughtful approach to problem-solving and his ability to inspire collaboration across departments. As president, Dr. Rothstein oversaw significant expansions and improvements to the medical center, championing initiatives that strengthened UH’s reputation as one of the leading academic medical centers in the nation.
He was a driving force in expanding clinical services, investing in cutting-edge research, and fostering an environment where medical education could thrive. His vision extended beyond bricks and mortar—he emphasized the importance of patient-centered care, diversity in the healthcare workforce, and the integration of new technologies to improve outcomes.
Beyond his administrative leadership, Dr. Rothstein was deeply respected as a physician. His medical expertise was matched by a genuine warmth and attentiveness toward patients.
Many remember his ability to listen with empathy, explain complex medical information clearly, and make each person feel valued and understood. His approach embodied the very best qualities of a healer and a leader.
Dr. Rothstein’s influence extended far beyond UH’s walls. He was actively involved in regional and national healthcare organizations, contributing his insights to discussions on hospital management, medical ethics, and innovations in patient care.
His voice was often sought on matters of healthcare policy, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that both patients and healthcare workers were placed at the center of decision-making processes.
Those who worked closely with him often speak of his mentorship and dedication to developing future leaders in medicine. He believed strongly in nurturing talent and empowering others to take on meaningful roles in shaping the future of healthcare. Many of his former colleagues credit their own professional growth to his guidance, encouragement, and example.
Outside of his professional life, Dr. Rothstein was known for his devotion to family, his love of learning, and his appreciation for the arts and community service. Friends describe him as a man of integrity and humility, who balanced his impressive professional responsibilities with a grounded and compassionate personal life.
Dr. Rothstein’s passing leaves a significant void not only at University Hospitals but also in the broader medical community. Plans for a memorial service will be shared in the coming days, providing an opportunity for friends, colleagues, and former patients to honor his extraordinary life and career.
His four decades of service stand as a testament to the power of leadership rooted in compassion, vision, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of others. For those who knew him, Dr. Fred C. Rothstein will be remembered not just for the positions he held, but for the countless lives he touched through his work, his mentorship, and his humanity.
