CoxHealth Executive and Leadership Team

Lisa Hallam, the Chief Executive Officer at CoxHealth, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire hospital network. Hallam manages the integration of clinical services across the 25-county region, ensuring that patient care standards remain consistent throughout all 6 hospitals and 80 clinics. By aligning administrative goals with medical outcomes, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of operational efficiency and clinical excellence. Hallam maintains direct oversight of the executive leadership team to ensure that long-term growth objectives align with the mission of providing high-quality healthcare to Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Through rigorous analysis of market trends and healthcare delivery models, Lisa Hallam optimizes resource allocation to support the expansion of emergency services and outpatient facilities. This leadership approach secures the financial and operational health of the organization while addressing the evolving needs of the communities served by the system.

Max Buetow, the President & Chief Executive Officer at CoxHealth, architects the daily operational framework and long-term sustainability of the health system. Buetow drives the execution of complex clinical initiatives across the multi-state service area, focusing on the integration of the 5 ERs and various specialty clinics. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Buetow coordinates with the Board to implement policies that enhance patient safety and service accessibility. Max Buetow monitors performance metrics across the entire network to identify opportunities for process improvement and technological adoption. By prioritizing patient-centered care, Buetow ensures that the organization remains a leader in regional healthcare delivery. This role involves constant collaboration with department heads to streamline workflows and improve clinical outcomes. Ultimately, Buetow maintains the stability of the organization while navigating the challenges of the modern healthcare landscape to ensure consistent service delivery across all regional facilities.

David Strong, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at CoxHealth, oversees the fiscal health and long-term economic planning for the entire hospital network. Strong manages capital investments, budgeting, and revenue cycle operations to ensure the sustainability of the 6 hospitals and 80 clinics. As the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Strong evaluates the financial impact of new medical technologies and facility expansions across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. David Strong collaborates with the executive team to allocate resources effectively, balancing the need for advanced clinical equipment with the requirement for operational efficiency. By monitoring financial performance indicators, Strong identifies risks and implements strategies to maintain fiscal stability. This leadership role involves rigorous oversight of accounting practices and financial reporting to ensure compliance and transparency. Through disciplined financial management, Strong supports the organization's ability to provide high-quality care to the regional population.

Aaron Prenger, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, directs the internal operations and logistical functions of the hospital system. Prenger focuses on the optimization of clinical workflows and the management of hospital infrastructure to ensure seamless patient care delivery. As the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Prenger oversees the daily performance of the 6 hospitals, ensuring that staffing levels and facility resources meet the demands of the 25-county service area. Aaron Prenger implements standardized operational protocols to improve efficiency and reduce wait times in the 5 ERs. By coordinating with department heads, Prenger ensures that clinical teams have the necessary support to maintain high standards of care. This role involves continuous assessment of operational bottlenecks and the development of solutions to enhance productivity. Through effective management of internal systems, Prenger supports the overall mission of providing accessible and reliable healthcare services.

Amanda Hedgpeth, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, manages the strategic expansion and integration of outpatient services and clinic networks. Hedgpeth focuses on the operational scaling of the 80 clinics, ensuring that primary and specialty care services are accessible throughout the 25-county region. As the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Hedgpeth oversees the implementation of new care models that emphasize preventative health and chronic disease management. Amanda Hedgpeth coordinates with clinical directors to streamline patient intake processes and improve the overall experience within the outpatient facilities. By analyzing operational data, Hedgpeth identifies opportunities to enhance service delivery and resource utilization. This role involves close collaboration with the executive team to align clinic operations with the broader goals of the hospital system. Through effective leadership, Hedgpeth ensures that the outpatient network remains a vital component of the regional healthcare infrastructure.

Timothy Jones, the Group President, Cox Medical at CoxHealth, directs the clinical performance and service quality of the medical group operations. Jones oversees the physician network and specialty care teams, ensuring that clinical practices align with the organization's standards for patient safety and excellence. As the Group President, Cox Medical, Jones manages the recruitment and retention of medical professionals to support the 80 clinics and hospital-based services. Timothy Jones coordinates with clinical leadership to implement evidence-based care protocols and improve patient outcomes across the regional network. By fostering a collaborative environment, Jones ensures that medical staff are equipped to provide high-quality care to the diverse population of Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This role involves continuous monitoring of clinical performance metrics and the development of strategies to enhance service delivery. Through effective leadership, Jones maintains the clinical integrity and reputation of the medical group.

James Ganus, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, designs and executes comprehensive communication strategies to promote the organization's clinical services. Ganus manages brand positioning across the 25-county region, ensuring that the public understands the scope of care available within the 6 hospitals and 80 clinics. As the Associate Chief Marketing Officer, Ganus develops targeted outreach programs that highlight the expertise of medical staff and the availability of emergency services. James Ganus analyzes patient engagement data to refine messaging and improve community awareness of health initiatives. By aligning marketing efforts with the broader organizational mission, Ganus supports the growth of patient volume and strengthens the reputation of the system. This role requires constant coordination with clinical leadership to ensure that all promotional materials accurately reflect the high standards of care provided. Through strategic digital and traditional media campaigns, Ganus drives community trust and organizational visibility.

Thomas Trent, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, leads the development of patient acquisition strategies and community health education programs. Trent focuses on the digital transformation of marketing efforts, utilizing data analytics to reach patients across the regional service area. As the Associate Chief Marketing Officer, Trent manages the public relations and internal communications teams to ensure consistent messaging regarding the organization's clinical capabilities. Thomas Trent collaborates with service line leaders to promote specialized medical programs and wellness initiatives. By identifying emerging market trends, Trent adjusts outreach tactics to better serve the diverse needs of the population in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This role requires a deep understanding of the healthcare consumer journey and the ability to translate complex medical information into accessible content. Through strategic communication, Trent enhances the connection between the health system and the communities it serves.

Theresa Coyan, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations at CoxHealth, manages the organization's interactions with regulatory bodies and public policy stakeholders. Coyan directs advocacy efforts to ensure that the health system's interests are represented at the state and federal levels. As the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations, Coyan coordinates the executive office's administrative functions and facilitates communication between the leadership team and external partners. Theresa Coyan monitors legislative developments that impact healthcare delivery in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, providing guidance on compliance and strategic positioning. By building relationships with policymakers, Coyan supports the organization's mission to improve regional health outcomes. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare policy and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. Through proactive engagement, Coyan ensures that the system remains well-positioned to adapt to changing legal and political landscapes.

Patrick Murfee, the Vice President, Chief Information Officer at CoxHealth, architects the digital infrastructure and data security framework for the entire health system. Murfee manages the implementation of electronic health records and advanced diagnostic systems across the 6 hospitals and 80 clinics. As the Vice President, Chief Information Officer, Murfee oversees the integration of telehealth platforms to expand access to care throughout the 25-county region. Patrick Murfee ensures that all information technology systems remain secure and compliant with healthcare privacy regulations. By prioritizing the modernization of digital tools, Murfee supports clinical teams in delivering efficient and accurate patient care. This role involves constant collaboration with the executive team to align technology investments with the organization's strategic goals. Through the development of robust IT solutions, Murfee enables the system to leverage data for improved clinical decision-making and operational performance.