Remembering Robert Yetman, MD, Department of Pediatrics
Robert Yetman, MD, professor of pediatrics and vice chair for clinical operations at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, who also served as chief medical officer of Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, died June 28.
“Dr. Yetman was not only a teacher, colleague, and mentor, but also a friend,” said LaTanya Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. “He was among those who encouraged me to pursue a career in academic medicine, and he later became my division chief and hired me to my first faculty position—a vote of confidence that shaped my professional life and one for which I will always be grateful.”
Yetman dedicated his career to advancing pediatric and medical education. He was a trusted leader whose influence extended across the medical school, its hospitals, and the community.
“Beyond his many accomplishments, Dr. Yetman will be remembered for the person he was,” Love said. “He brought energy, humor, insight, and humanity to every interaction. He was a tireless advocate for children, a respected colleague, and a mentor who shaped countless careers. His impact can be seen not only in the programs he led and the patients he served, but also in the many physicians, nurses, staff, and learners who are better because of his guidance, encouragement, and example.”
In early 2026, UTHealth Houston recognized Yetman for 40 years of service during the annual STAR Awards celebration, a milestone achieved by few and a testament to his extraordinary dedication to the institution, its learners, and the children and families he served.
Colleagues said Yetman’s impact reached far beyond his titles, leaving a lasting mark on the Department of Pediatrics and those who worked alongside him.
“Dr. Yetman was the heart and soul of the Department of Pediatrics, inspiring excellence in every aspect of its mission and working tirelessly to ensure that children in our community received the highest quality of care,” said Joan Hernandez, MPH, director of management operations in the Department of Pediatrics. “He was a steadfast source of support and encouragement for our faculty and staff, always leading with wisdom and a well-timed sense of humor that brought warmth and levity, even during the most challenging moments.”
A graduate of Louisiana State University Medical School, Yetman completed his residency at McGovern Medical School, where he remained a vital faculty member beginning in 1987. His leadership roles included director of the Division of Community and General Pediatrics from 1997-2024, medical director of the UT Physicians Pediatric Primary Care Clinic, and multiple executive roles at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, culminating in his appointment as chief medical officer in 2024.
Those who worked alongside Yetman said his leadership was matched by generosity and care for others.
“I remember Dr. Yetman as a good, caring, and funny man. He was always there when I needed him, and he went above and beyond to help my family and me,” said Deborah Hernandez, senior program manager for General Academic Pediatrics. “When my daughter graduated from high school, he got her her first job at the clinic. When I would see him in the hallway of the medical school, he would always say, ‘What’s up, chica.’ I will truly miss him. He was one of a kind.”
A prolific contributor to pediatric scholarship, Yetman authored or co-authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and textbooks. He served as section editor for the Journal of Pediatric Health Care and as a reviewer for leading journals such as Pediatrics, The Lancet, and Academic Medicine. Yetman’s research spanned pediatric hypertension, infectious diseases, immunization practices, and health systems improvement. He led or participated in numerous clinical trials and public health initiatives, particularly those focused on underserved populations.
His professional accomplishments were matched by the lasting relationships he built throughout his career.
“Robert was more than a colleague and mentor. He was my person that I would go to for advice on life. He knew everything,” said Sandra McKay, MD, associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics and director of General Academic Pediatrics. “He could help me through a difficult situation and lift my stress with his humor and grit. He could pick up the phone and make magic happen. We could talk about Disney, tequila, and laugh like old friends, and he would always make time for a conversation, no matter where he was. His kindness was overflowing.”
In addition to his academic and clinical roles, Yetman was a dedicated mentor and advocate for medical education, serving on numerous institutional committees and advisory boards. His commitment to improving pediatric care and training the next generation of physicians shaped the field of pediatrics both locally and nationally.
For many, that mentorship proved transformative.
“I would not be the physician and leader I am today without Dr. Yetman,” said Keely Smith, MD, professor in the Department of Pediatrics. “He believed in people, invested in them, and inspired us all to accomplish more than we thought possible. I will always be grateful for his friendship, his guidance, and the example he set every day.”
“Robert was a trusted colleague who was integral to the history and daily life of the Department of Pediatrics, our pediatric clinics, and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital,” said Mary Aitken, MD, MPH, professor and chair of pediatrics at the medical school. “It would be impossible to name anyone more dedicated to improving the quality and safety of the care we provide. For me, and for so many, he was also a friend whose enthusiasm, humor, and candor made our work together more enjoyable. He will be profoundly missed, but I hope we honor his legacy by continuing the important work he spent so much of his life building.”
“Beyond his many professional accomplishments, Dr. Yetman will be remembered for his warm personality, quick wit, and genuine kindness,” said Guy Giesecke, DHA, senior vice president and CEO of Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital. “His sense of humor and friendly demeanor put colleagues, learners, patients, and families at ease, and his ability to connect with people made him a beloved member of our Memorial Hermann and pediatric communities. We are deeply grateful for the generosity, wisdom, and humanity he brought to our organization, and for the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”
Information regarding services is pending, and updates will be shared as soon as they become available. To honor Yetman and his love of Disney, the Division of General Academic Pediatrics encourages all to wear Disney-themed clothing on Tuesday, July 7.
A tribute page (external link) for Yetman is available for those who wish to contribute thoughts, stories, and photos.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made in his memory to UTHealth Houston, PO Box 20268, Houston, TX 77025-9998 or go.uth.edu/memorial (external link).