Published on Feb. 13, 2026
“My purpose is clear: to build future health care leaders and ensure the continuation of MemorialCare’s legacy of compassionate, expert care.” That purpose has served as a guiding light for Oliver Delacruz, Executive Director of Acute Care Services at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center.
Oliver’s journey in health care started in 1996, when he worked in Medical Records and Reception for a medical group that eventually became part of MemorialCare’s health system. As a teenager, he gained insight into how every role contributes to patient care. “I learned early that healthcare is a team effort – and that every team member matters,” Oliver said.
Motivated by those experiences, Oliver pursued a medical assistant training program and later became a registered nurse (RN). In 2002, he joined Saddleback Medical Center as a new graduate RN in the Intensive Care Unit. Over the next 10 years, his clinical skills matured as he transitioned to the Cardiac Catheterization Lab, where he became part of a team that performed emergency cardiac interventions for patients having heart attacks. “Being part of the STEMI team meant having the chance to save lives every day,” he said.
A career development conversation led Oliver into leadership as a telemetry unit manager. In that position, he identified an operational issue impacting productivity and developed a solution that influenced the creation of a dedicated observation care unit. Today, his work and collaborative efforts are focused on improving patient flow, increasing bed availability, and enhancing patient care within MemorialCare.
Oliver’s passion for leadership is rooted in his love for people: “Watching staff grow — seeing patient care assistants become RNs and watching nurses move into more specialized roles and thrive— that’s been the most fulfilling part of my work.”
Oliver enjoys mentoring future leaders and nurturing emotional intelligence, courage, and a growth mindset.
Health care takes grit, prayer, a sense of humor, and a supportive team. And when you hit the wall, it’s okay to rest.
- Oliver Delacruz
Oliver’s journey from medical records to executive leadership – and his commitment to developing people, strengthening teams, and delivering compassionate care – embodies MemorialCare’s vision: Exceptional People. Extraordinary Care. Every Time.