Frank Sacco, the retired CEO of Memorial Healthcare System, has passed away at the age of 77 after a courageous battle with cancer. His death marks the end of a remarkable era for the healthcare system and the community he served so devotedly.
Sacco, a Florida native, dedicated 41 years of his life to Memorial Healthcare System, serving as its President and CEO for 28 years. His leadership was transformative, guiding the organization from a single hospital to a robust network of six hospitals across South Broward County. Under his stewardship, the healthcare system grew to become the third-largest public healthcare system in the nation, with a net worth exceeding $1.8 billion.
Frank Sacco’s commitment to excellence was evident in the financial strength and operational efficiency of Memorial Healthcare System. He led the organization to achieve milestones such as eliminating the need for tax dollars to cover uncompensated care, resulting in the lowest millage rate in the history of the South Broward Hospital District. Additionally, the system garnered impressive financial ratings, including a AA- from Standard & Poor’s and an Aa3 from Moody’s, reflecting its strong fiscal management.
A pioneer in patient-centered care, Sacco was instrumental in Memorial Healthcare System becoming the first in Florida to assume responsibility for providing primary care to the uninsured in the South Broward District in 1992. His vision for community-based healthcare has continued to influence the organization’s mission, reaching over 700,000 residents in South Broward County and beyond.
The news of Frank Sacco’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and admiration from those who knew him. Michael Lawrence, a former colleague, shared on Facebook, "Always a great guy that my wife and I had the pleasure of working for. He started working at Memorial as a young man and worked his way up to CEO and made the place much stronger under his leadership."
Linda Cooke echoed these sentiments, saying, "Frank Sacco did so much for Memorial Healthcare. He definitely left a legacy of decades of service." Sylvia Pedraza, who met Sacco through a mutual acquaintance, expressed her sorrow, "May he Rest In Peace."
The community mourns the loss of a man who was not only a leader but also a pioneer in healthcare. Frank Sacco’s contributions to the field have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his legacy will continue to benefit future generations. His obituary will be released by the family in due course.