PediaTrust Welcomes Vicki Whildin as COO and Dr. Susan Sirota as CEO
PediaTrust, the largest independent pediatric practice in Illinois, announced the appointment of Vicki Whildin as the organization’s new chief operating officer (COO). Dr. Susan Sirota, one of the founding members of PediaTrust and former chair of the board of managers, has been appointed the chief executive officer (CEO) of the group. Whildin and Dr. Sirota succeed Kathleen McTigue, the founding CEO, upon her retirement.
Kathleen McTigue retired from her position of PediaTrust’s CEO at the end of 2023. She served as the company’s CEO since 2013, and was instrumental in the creation of the organization, which flourished under her leadership and guidance.
A seasoned health care executive with two decades of experience in health care operations, strategic planning, and executive leadership, Vicki Whildin brings her unique health care insights to help empower the physicians, clinicians, and team members at PediaTrust to even better care for their patients and communities.
“I am honored to join this amazing company where I am excited to bring my experience to continue the commitment to delivering exceptional pediatric care and advancing health care innovation and growth,” said Whildin.
Prior to her appointment as COO, Whildin most recently served as the chief operating officer for Erie Family Health Centers, a not-for-profit, federally qualified health center with multiple locations in the Chicago area. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in international business and Spanish from St. Mary’s University in Minnesota, and earned her Master of Arts degree in sociology, with an emphasis in the sociology of health care at DePaul University in Chicago.
In her new role, Whildin will oversee implementation of the organization’s strategic goals including practice growth, increased patient reach, financial growth, and patient and employee engagement.
Dr. Susan Sirota has been a practicing pediatrician for 30 years; as a founding physician leader of PediaTrust, she served as the chair of the board of managers for PediaTrust for 11 years. Long recognized nationally for her practice management expertise and leadership, Dr. Sirota is active in the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Section on Administration and Practice Management.
“As the newly appointed CEO of PediaTrust, I am thrilled to lead a team dedicated to providing exceptional care to our pediatric patients. Our commitment to fostering a compassionate team and an innovative health care environment ensures that every patient receives the personalized attention they deserve,” said Dr. Sirota.
Dr. Sirota received both her undergraduate and medical degrees from Tufts University. She completed her residency and chief residency at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago (formerly Children’s Memorial Hospital).
“Together, we will continue to strive for excellence in pediatric care, prioritizing the well-being of the children and families we serve,” said Dr. Sirota.
About PediaTrust
PediaTrust formed in 2012 through the consolidation of seven Chicago area pediatric practices. Over time, the organization has grown to include nearly 80 board-certified pediatricians and advanced practice pediatric clinicians caring for patients across 19 locations in the northern, northwestern, and western suburbs of Chicago. PediaTrust is nationally recognized as a Level 3 Patient-Centered Medical Home, a certification earned by demonstrating consistently high quality medical care while addressing the physical, emotional, and behavioral health needs of the children and families whom they serve.