Rochester, N.Y. (WHAM)— Dr. Robert Mayo is retiring as Rochester Regional Health's chief medical officer.
Dr. Robert Mayo and Dr. Leslie Wong speak to 13WHAM during an interview Monday, March 30, 2026, as Wong prepares to replace Mayo as Rochester Regional Health's top doctor. Mayo joined Rochester Regional Health in 2002 and took over as chief medical officer in 2013.
"I'm grateful for the many doctors and leaders who contributed to the work here," Mayo said. "We've got a wonderful community to take care of and have really stepped forward." During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayo became a recognizable face as he led the health system through an unprecedented public health crisis. "Being chief medical officer at that time introduced some unusual challenges, so far as organizing the health system, reformatting many aspects of care, but there was a great deal of help," Mayo said. "People stepped forward, and it was really heartwarming, so I felt very supported and I was grateful that we could accomplish what was needed for the community at that time." As part of a planned transition, Dr. Leslie Wong will take over as chief clinical officer as of Wednesday. "I'll be the first chief clinical officer for the system," Wong said. "What that represents is a modernization of the role of a physician leader within a health system, to not only bring a new emphasis on how we integrate our care across our system but really doubling down on the importance of quality and safety throughout the organization." Wong, a nationally recognized nephrologist, said he's ready to lead the health system into the future with evolving health care technology."We are implementing AI to help improve not only our patient experience but help our providers and physicians do their jobs in a more focused and I think lifestyle-friendly way."Auburn, N.Y. — A correction officer is accused of bringing significant amounts of drugs to work at Cayuga Correctional Facility after a joint investigation byNo serious injuries were reported after 11 vehicles were involved in a crash Monday on Interstate 590, according to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.The 14-year-old girl suffered serious injuries and was taken to an area hospital.Brighton, N.Y. A major construction project on 590 begins Monday, as commuters will need to plan for extra time to get out for the day.
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