CoxHealth Executive and Leadership Team

Max Buetow, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CoxHealth, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the entire healthcare system. Buetow guides the organization's mission to serve a 25-county region across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care across 6 hospitals and 80 clinics. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in healthcare delivery, managing complex stakeholder relationships, and driving financial sustainability for the organization. By setting clear objectives and promoting a culture of excellence, Max Buetow ensures CoxHealth remains a vital community resource, adapting to evolving healthcare landscapes and expanding its reach to meet patient needs effectively. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all major strategic initiatives and long-term planning, directly impacting the organization's market position and service expansion.

David Strong, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at CoxHealth, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the comprehensive healthcare network. Strong manages the financial health of 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, ensuring robust resource allocation and sustainable growth across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This executive position involves overseeing budgeting, financial planning, revenue cycle management, and investment strategies to support CoxHealth's mission of accessible, high-quality care. By maintaining stringent financial controls and identifying opportunities for fiscal optimization, David Strong safeguards the organization's long-term viability. The Vice President, Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to enhance patient services and expand community outreach.

Aaron Prenger, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, manages the day-to-day operational execution across the system's diverse healthcare facilities. Prenger oversees the efficient functioning of 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, ensuring seamless patient flow and service delivery throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This leadership capacity involves optimizing operational workflows, enhancing resource management, and driving performance improvements to meet organizational goals. By focusing on operational excellence, Aaron Prenger directly contributes to the quality and accessibility of care provided by CoxHealth. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to implementing strategic initiatives that enhance patient experience and operational efficiency across all service lines.

Amanda Hedgpeth, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, directs strategic operational initiatives and service line development across the healthcare network. Hedgpeth focuses on enhancing the delivery of care within 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, driving innovation and efficiency throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This executive role involves collaborating with clinical leadership to refine patient care models, expand service offerings, and ensure regulatory compliance. By championing operational advancements, Amanda Hedgpeth supports CoxHealth's commitment to providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare solutions. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight ensures that operational strategies align with the organization's mission and long-term growth objectives.

Timothy Jones, the Group President, Cox Medical at CoxHealth, leads significant operational divisions and strategic growth areas within the medical group. Jones oversees key service lines and clinical operations, ensuring the effective delivery of patient care across the network of 6 hospitals and 80 clinics in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This executive responsibility involves driving performance improvements, fostering clinical excellence, and expanding access to specialized medical services. By guiding the strategic direction of Cox Medical entities, Timothy Jones directly impacts patient outcomes and the organization's capacity to meet regional healthcare demands. The Group President's leadership is instrumental in advancing CoxHealth's commitment to providing comprehensive and innovative medical care.

Patrick Murfee, the Vice President, Chief Information Officer at CoxHealth, architects and oversees the entire technology infrastructure supporting the organization's extensive healthcare operations. Murfee drives the implementation of advanced digital solutions across 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, enhancing patient care delivery and operational efficiency throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This critical role involves managing data security, optimizing electronic health records, and spearheading technological innovation to meet the evolving demands of modern healthcare. By ensuring seamless integration of IT systems, Patrick Murfee empowers clinicians with the tools needed for effective diagnosis and treatment, directly supporting CoxHealth's mission. The Vice President, Chief Information Officer's strategic direction ensures technological advancements align with patient outcomes and organizational growth objectives.

Thomas Trent, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, develops and executes strategic marketing initiatives to enhance brand visibility and patient engagement across the healthcare system. Trent oversees campaigns designed to communicate the value of services offered by 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, reaching communities in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This role involves leveraging market insights to drive patient acquisition, promote specialized services, and strengthen CoxHealth's community presence. By crafting compelling narratives and optimizing communication channels, Thomas Trent ensures that the organization's mission and capabilities resonate with the public. The Associate Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are crucial for fostering patient loyalty and expanding the reach of CoxHealth's healthcare offerings.

James Ganus, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, leads the strategic development and implementation of integrated marketing communications to support organizational objectives. Ganus directs efforts to promote the comprehensive services provided by 6 hospitals and 80 clinics, effectively reaching target audiences across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This position involves analyzing market trends, managing brand reputation, and coordinating promotional activities to drive patient engagement and service utilization. By ensuring consistent brand messaging and impactful outreach, James Ganus strengthens CoxHealth's position as a leading healthcare provider. The Associate Chief Marketing Officer's strategic guidance is vital for communicating the organization's commitment to community health and well-being.

Theresa Coyan, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations at CoxHealth, manages critical organizational initiatives and advocates for the system's interests at governmental levels. Coyan ensures strategic alignment across departments, supporting the operational framework of 6 hospitals and 80 clinics serving Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This dual role involves facilitating communication between leadership and staff, while also navigating legislative and regulatory landscapes to advance CoxHealth's mission. By fostering strong relationships with policymakers and stakeholders, Theresa Coyan secures support for healthcare initiatives and addresses policy challenges. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations' expertise is essential for maintaining CoxHealth's operational integrity and advocating for community health needs.