Oswego Health COO Backus to lead organization in 2023

OSWEGO, N.Y. — Oswego Health will use the remainder of 2022 to prepare for a leadership transition beginning in January.

The health-care system’s board of directors has chosen Michael Backus as the next president and CEO, effective on Jan. 1, 2023.

He’ll succeed the retiring Michael Harlovic, who has led of Oswego Health as president and CEO since 2017. 

Backus, who joined Oswego Health in 2020, has been serving as COO and executive VP, working with Harlovic and the system’s senior-leadership team, per Oswego Health’s June 1 announcement. 

“We’re confident in Michael Backus and his ability to take Oswego Health to the next level and provide the quality of care this community deserves and needs,” Ed Alberts, vice chair of the Oswego Health board of directors, said. “Lifelong resident, a local leader, and someone who is beyond vested in this community, Backus will not only offer a smooth transition for staff but continue to advocate and position Oswego Health as a leader in local health care.”

Backus called it “the honor of my professional life” to succeed Harlovic as president and CEO of Oswego Health. 

“I thank the board of directors for their confidence in not only me but our entire senior leadership team. Most importantly, I thank the employees of Oswego Health as throughout the past two years I’ve seen us rise to many challenges and I am every day impressed by the heroism of our caregivers,” Backus said. “Ensuring they have the resources they need — the infrastructure, the teammates, and the work/life balance health care heroes need right now — is the job of our leadership team at Oswego Health and will continue to be at the forefront of our efforts.”

Harlovic and Backus will continue to work together to “ensure a smooth transition” throughout the remainder of 2022.

“Though his career in health care spans nearly 40 years, Michael’s leadership and forward-thinking has never been more evident than throughout the past two years as he’s helped guide not only the health system but this community throughout the pandemic,” Atom Avery, chairman of the Oswego Health board of directors, said. “His ability to take on significant challenges and responsibilities, combined with his foresight for growth and resources has positioned Oswego Health as a strong, independent health system, one in which our community needs.”