Dr. Michael Farrell to Retire After More Than 50 Years at Cincinnati Children’s

After more than five decades of extraordinary service, Dr. Michael Farrell will retire from Cincinnati Children’s in January 2026. He will conclude his patient care in December 2025. His retirement marks the close of a truly remarkable era for our institution. Dr. Farrell has been a giant in every sense, as a clinician, educator, and mentor.  His influence will continue to shape our community for years to come.

After completing his service in the U.S. Navy, Dr. Farrell came to Cincinnati Children’s in 1974 to pursue his pediatric residency, followed by fellowships in ambulatory and emergency medicine and pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition. Farrell joined the College of Medicine faculty in 1979 and has held numerous leadership positions at Cincinnati Children’s, including Pediatric Residency Program Director (1979 to 2001), Medical Director of Home Health Care (1988 to 2017), Chief-of-Staff (1993 to 2015) and Associate Chair of Clinical Affairs for the Department of Pediatrics (1993 to 2015).

Known for his collaboration and ongoing support of community pediatric practices, Dr. Farrell has long emphasized the importance of partnership between hospital and community providers to ensure high-quality, coordinated care for every child.

Plans are underway for a retirement celebration to honor his career and contributions. Additional details will be shared soon. Those wishing to share memories, well-wishes, or reflections may email alumni@cchmc.org.