The new hospital CEO: many paths to the top.

A new kind of hospital CEO is beginning to emerge--one who has superior qualifications in a number of areas, including financial, operational, and interpersonal skills. As the position continues to evolve, its candidate requirements are shifting. The "traditional" hospital CEO, who advanced through mainly operations positions, is still in high demand and considered by many to be well prepared to meet current hospital challenges. But the emergence of chief executives from "alternative" backgrounds signals a new diversification in the field. We surveyed 556 hospital CEOs throughout the United States to get their views on selection, and we spoke with experts and leaders in the field with broadly divergent views. Who's on the inside track? The answers may surprise you.