Tom Serena, CEO of the Bethesda, Md.-based American Gastroenterological Association, plans to retire, effective Dec. 31, 2026, after 12 years leading the organization and more than three decades in other leadership roles there.
Ahead of a national search led by executive search firm Spencer Stuart, Mr. Serena spoke with Becker’s about the governance changes he helped drive, the reimbursement fights he’s leaving behind and what he hopes his successor will build on.
Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What accomplishments are you most proud of from your tenure as CEO of AGA?
Tom Serena: AGA evolved in important ways. Through the work with dedicated volunteer leaders and staff, the organization strengthened its governance model so the governing board could focus more on strategy and long-term impact. AGA also embraced innovation, creating initiatives such as the GI Opportunity Fund and building a broader ecosystem that connects clinicians, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and industry partners. Together, these efforts have helped position AGA to remain relevant and influential in a rapidly changing healthcare environment.
Q: AGA has been active in advocacy around GI reimbursement. What policy fights does AGA see as most urgent for its next leader to inherit?
TS: The reimbursement environment remains one of the most important issues facing gastroenterologists. AGA will continue to focus on Medicare physician payment, reducing administrative burden, prior authorization reform and ensuring patients have access to high-quality digestive healthcare. As policymakers revisit physician payment and programs such as [the merit-based iIncentive payment system], it will be critical that the voice of gastroenterology remains part of those conversations.
Q: With private equity consolidation reshaping many GI practices, how is AGA positioning itself to support independent gastroenterologists?
TS: AGA’s role is to help gastroenterologists succeed regardless of their practice setting. For independent practices, that means providing advocacy, practice resources, quality initiatives and tools that help physicians navigate an increasingly complex healthcare environment. We are also actively engaging with payers and other stakeholders to address issues affecting practice viability and patients’ access to care.
Q: What other clinical or regulatory goals will AGA focus on under the next CEO’s leadership?
TS: I expect AGA will continue to focus on the issues that matter most to patients and gastroenterologists, including clinical guidance, access to care, physician payment and research. As has always been the case, the specific priorities will evolve in response to changes in healthcare, science, technology and public policy, and AGA will continue adapting to meet the needs of the GI community.
Q: What qualities or experience are AGA and Spencer Stuart prioritizing in a successor, given the governance innovation work you led? Is AGA looking for someone from within organized gastroenterology or an outside healthcare association leader?
TS: The search focuses on identifying an outstanding leader who can build on AGA’s strengths and help the organization navigate a rapidly changing healthcare environment. The position specification emphasizes strategic leadership, experience working with governing boards and volunteer leaders, financial and operational acumen, the ability to lead through change and a commitment to innovation. The search is open to candidates who can advance AGA’s mission and serve as a credible and effective leader for the GI community.
Q: Any other thoughts or comments you would like to share about your tenure at AGA and the future of the organization?
TS: More than anything, I leave with gratitude. AGA’s success has always been driven by its volunteer leaders, members and staff. They are the people who generate the ideas, do the work and move the field forward. It has been a privilege to support that work, and I am confident the organization will continue to thrive in the years ahead.
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