CoxHealth Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CoxHealth has 8 executives leading key functions including governmental relations, marketing, information technology, operations, finance, and medical group leadership.

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, CoxHealth focuses on delivering comprehensive healthcare services across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, impacting patient care through strategic operational excellence and robust financial management.

Leadership Roles at CoxHealth

  • Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - David Strong
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Aaron Prenger
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Amanda Hedgpeth
  • Group President, Cox Medical - Timothy Jones
  • Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations - Theresa Coyan
  • Associate Chief Marketing Officer - James Ganus
  • Vice President, Chief Information Officer - Patrick Murfee
  • Associate Chief Marketing Officer - Thomas Trent
  • David Strong - Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

    David Strong, the Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at CoxHealth, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization, overseeing all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and resource management. Strong's leadership ensures the financial stability and sustainability of CoxHealth's six hospitals, 80 clinics, and 5 ERs, supporting the delivery of high-quality healthcare services across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This role involves managing investments, optimizing revenue cycles, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations within the healthcare sector. David Strong's expertise is critical in navigating the complex financial landscape, enabling CoxHealth to allocate resources effectively and pursue strategic growth initiatives. The CFO's diligent financial stewardship underpins the organization's ability to serve its 25-county community effectively and maintain its commitment to accessible patient care.

    Aaron Prenger - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Aaron Prenger, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, directs the day-to-day operational execution across the health system's extensive network, encompassing six hospitals, 80 clinics, and 5 ERs. Prenger oversees the strategic implementation of operational efficiencies and service delivery models throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and organizational performance. This leadership role involves managing complex logistical frameworks, optimizing resource allocation, and driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance patient experience and clinical outcomes. Aaron Prenger's operational oversight is fundamental to CoxHealth's mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare services to the 25-county region. The COO's strategic vision ensures that all operational facets align with the organization's long-term goals for growth and community impact.

    Amanda Hedgpeth - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Amanda Hedgpeth, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CoxHealth, spearheads critical operational strategies and oversees the seamless functioning of the health system's diverse facilities, including six hospitals and numerous clinics serving Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Hedgpeth's responsibilities encompass driving operational excellence, enhancing patient flow, and ensuring the efficient delivery of comprehensive healthcare services across the 25-county region. This executive role involves close collaboration with clinical and administrative teams to implement best practices, manage budgets, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Amanda Hedgpeth's leadership is instrumental in maintaining the high quality of care and operational integrity that defines CoxHealth, directly supporting the organization's commitment to community health and patient well-being. The COO's strategic focus ensures robust operational performance and sustained growth.

    Timothy Jones - Group President, Cox Medical

    Timothy Jones, the Group President, Cox Medical at CoxHealth, leads strategic oversight and operational direction for key medical groups within the health system, impacting patient care across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Jones directs the integration and performance of various medical entities, ensuring alignment with CoxHealth's overarching mission to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare. This executive position involves fostering clinical excellence, driving service line growth, and enhancing the patient experience throughout the 25-county region served by CoxHealth's extensive network. Timothy Jones's leadership is crucial for optimizing the delivery of medical services, promoting innovation in patient care models, and ensuring that the medical groups operate efficiently and effectively. The Group President's focus on strategic development supports CoxHealth's commitment to community health and its position as a leading healthcare provider.

    Theresa Coyan - Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations

    Theresa Coyan, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations at CoxHealth, directs strategic initiatives and manages critical governmental affairs for the organization. Overseeing legislative engagement and policy advocacy, Coyan ensures CoxHealth's operational framework aligns with regional and national healthcare regulations. This leadership position involves fostering relationships with key stakeholders and government bodies to advance the organization's mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare across its 25-county service area. Theresa Coyan's role is pivotal in navigating the complex regulatory landscape, securing resources, and championing the needs of the Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas communities served by CoxHealth's six hospitals and extensive network of clinics and emergency rooms. The strategic direction provided by Coyan supports the overall growth and sustainability of the health system.

    James Ganus - Associate Chief Marketing Officer

    James Ganus, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, drives strategic marketing efforts to enhance brand visibility and patient engagement across the health system's expansive service region. Focusing on innovative campaign development and market penetration, Ganus oversees the execution of integrated marketing strategies designed to communicate CoxHealth's comprehensive service offerings, including its six hospitals and numerous clinics. This role is crucial for articulating the value proposition of CoxHealth's healthcare services to the communities in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. James Ganus's leadership ensures that marketing initiatives effectively support patient acquisition, retention, and the overall growth objectives of the organization. By analyzing market trends and consumer needs, Ganus guides the development of targeted communications that resonate with diverse patient populations, reinforcing CoxHealth's position as a leading healthcare provider.

    Patrick Murfee - Vice President, Chief Information Officer

    Patrick Murfee, the Vice President, Chief Information Officer at CoxHealth, architects and executes the organization's comprehensive information technology strategy. Overseeing all aspects of digital infrastructure, data management, and cybersecurity, Murfee ensures the seamless integration of technology across CoxHealth's six hospitals, 80 clinics, and 5 ERs. This critical role involves driving innovation in health informatics, enhancing electronic health record systems, and implementing advanced technological solutions to support patient care and operational efficiency throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Patrick Murfee's leadership ensures that CoxHealth maintains a robust, secure, and scalable IT environment, enabling data-driven decision-making and facilitating improved patient outcomes. The CIO's focus on technological advancement directly supports the health system's mission to provide accessible and high-quality healthcare services.

    Thomas Trent - Associate Chief Marketing Officer

    Thomas Trent, the Associate Chief Marketing Officer at CoxHealth, collaborates on developing and implementing impactful marketing strategies that elevate the CoxHealth brand and expand its reach within Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. This position involves contributing to the strategic direction of all marketing communications, public relations, and digital outreach efforts for the health system's extensive network of hospitals and clinics. Thomas Trent's focus is on enhancing patient understanding of the breadth of services offered, from specialized medical treatments to primary care, across the 25-county region. By analyzing market dynamics and patient feedback, Trent helps shape campaigns that reinforce CoxHealth's commitment to community health and patient well-being. The collaborative efforts of Trent and the marketing team are essential for driving patient volume and strengthening CoxHealth's reputation as a premier healthcare provider.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitals & Physicians Clinics

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CoxHealth Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CoxHealth?
    CoxHealth is led by David Strong (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Aaron Prenger (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and Amanda Hedgpeth (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of CoxHealth’s executive team?
    The executive team of CoxHealth includes leaders such as David Strong (Vice President, Chief Financial Officer), Aaron Prenger (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), Amanda Hedgpeth (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CoxHealth have?
    CoxHealth has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CoxHealth’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CoxHealth includes roles such as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Group President, Cox Medical, Chief of Staff & Vice President, Governmental Relations.