Background: With increasing emphasis on value-based care, nurses and physicians are being promoted to top administrative roles in US healthcare organizations. Purpose: This study sought to examine whether clinician (nurse or physician) leadership was associated with improved Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades (HSGs) and Magnet designation. Methodology: Cross-sectional analysis of Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade and Magnet status data on 257 U.S. teaching hospitals was performed. Results: Hospitals in clinician-led hospitals performed better across several safety and performance measures than non-clinician-led hospitals. Magnet designation was independently associated with higher overall HSGs and better performance in several outcome, structure, and process measures. Conclusions: This study suggests that hospital executives with a clinical background may possess skills, knowledge, or management strategies that positively impact patient outcomes. Practice implications: Hospital quality and safety ratings impact patient decisions. Clinician executive leadership may improve hospital performance. Clinical education should prepare nurses and physicians to assume leadership positions in healthcare organizations.