David Carlson to lead Physicians Insurance
Physicians Insurance selected David Carlson to lead the company, starting November 1, after William Cotter’s retires from 35 years of service. Carlson serves as the chief medical officer and vice president of operations at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in Washington state. He joined the board in 2018 and chaired it from 2019 through 2023 while managing compliance and investment matters.
The mutual insurer has provided coverage and risk services to hospitals and medical professionals nationwide since its 1981 establishment. Cotter spent six years as chief executive and strengthened underwriting standards while expanding operations across the country. Chief operating officer Christina Galicia said Carlson helped create the strategic plan focused on financial stability and member priorities. The physician executive previously held leadership positions at health systems in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Washington.
