Hosparus Health Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Hosparus Health has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, information technology, finance, legal affairs, reimbursement, and medical operations.

Driven by a commitment to compassionate care, Hosparus Health provides essential medical services and support for individuals facing serious and life-limiting illnesses, impacting countless lives through dedicated palliative and hospice services.

Leadership Roles at Hosparus Health

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - David Cook
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Sharon Tankersley
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Melissa Merrifield
  • Chief Information Officer & Network Administrator - David Benefiel
  • Chief Legal Officer - Lynn Fieldhouse
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer - Bethany Snider
  • Associate Vice President & Managing Director, Reimbursement & Compliance - Loretta McGinty
  • David Cook - President & Chief Executive Officer

    David Cook, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Hosparus Health, directs the organization's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Cook guides the not-for-profit hospice and palliative care provider in delivering comprehensive medical care and support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of compassionate care and ensuring the organization's mission remains central to all activities. David Cook oversees the integration of clinical services with administrative functions, driving efficiency and effectiveness across all departments. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to stakeholder relations, community engagement, and long-term organizational sustainability, ensuring Hosparus Health continues its legacy of service established in 1978. Through strategic planning and decisive leadership, Cook champions initiatives that enhance patient outcomes and expand access to critical care services throughout Kentucky and surrounding regions.

    Sharon Tankersley - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Sharon Tankersley, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Hosparus Health, directs the organization's financial strategy and fiscal health. Tankersley oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and investment management, ensuring the sustainability of the not-for-profit hospice and palliative care services. This executive role involves managing financial risks, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations. Sharon Tankersley plays a crucial part in strategic planning, providing financial insights to support decision-making and drive organizational growth. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures that Hosparus Health maintains a strong financial foundation, enabling continued investment in patient care and operational improvements. Tankersley's stewardship of financial resources is paramount to the organization's ability to serve individuals facing serious and life-limiting illnesses effectively.
    Sharon Tankersley

    Melissa Merrifield - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Melissa Merrifield, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hosparus Health, architects the human capital strategy essential for delivering high-quality patient care. Merrifield oversees all aspects of workforce management, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a skilled and dedicated team supports the organization's mission. This critical role involves cultivating a supportive and engaging work environment that attracts and retains top talent in the hospice and palliative care sector. Melissa Merrifield drives initiatives focused on employee well-being, professional growth, and adherence to HR best practices, directly impacting the morale and performance of the clinical and administrative staff. By aligning HR policies with the organization's strategic goals, Merrifield ensures that Hosparus Health possesses the human resources necessary to meet the evolving needs of patients and families across its service areas. The Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is fundamental to maintaining the compassionate and expert care that defines Hosparus Health.

    David Benefiel - Chief Information Officer & Network Administrator

    David Benefiel, the Chief Information Officer & Network Administrator at Hosparus Health, spearheads the organization's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Benefiel manages all information systems, ensuring the secure and efficient operation of networks, electronic health records, and communication platforms vital for patient care delivery. This leadership position involves implementing innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency, data security, and accessibility of patient information. David Benefiel oversees the integration of technology to support the organization's not-for-profit mission, enabling seamless coordination among clinical teams and administrative staff. The Chief Information Officer & Network Administrator's responsibilities include safeguarding sensitive patient data, managing IT budgets, and planning for future technological advancements to support Hosparus Health's growth and service expansion. Benefiel's expertise ensures that technology serves as a robust foundation for compassionate care.
    Lynn Fieldhouse, the Chief Legal Officer at Hosparus Health, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the organization. Fieldhouse manages risk mitigation strategies, ensures regulatory compliance, and advises leadership on legal matters impacting patient care and operations. This pivotal role involves interpreting complex healthcare laws and regulations to safeguard the organization's interests and uphold its mission of providing compassionate hospice and palliative care. Lynn Fieldhouse directs all litigation, contract negotiations, and corporate governance activities, ensuring adherence to the highest ethical and legal standards. The Chief Legal Officer's expertise is essential in navigating the intricate legal landscape of healthcare, protecting Hosparus Health's commitment to serving individuals with serious and life-limiting illnesses. Fieldhouse's guidance ensures the organization operates with integrity and within all legal frameworks.

    Bethany Snider - Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer

    Bethany Snider, the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Hosparus Health, directs the clinical strategy and medical operations of the organization. Snider oversees the delivery of high-quality hospice and palliative care, ensuring that patient needs are met with compassion and expertise. This executive role involves setting clinical standards, guiding medical staff, and implementing best practices in end-of-life care. Bethany Snider is responsible for the medical integrity of services, focusing on patient outcomes, symptom management, and holistic support for individuals and their families facing serious illnesses. The Chief Medical Officer's leadership ensures that clinical teams are well-supported and equipped to provide exceptional care. Snider's vision guides the medical direction of Hosparus Health, reinforcing its commitment to providing dignified and comprehensive care throughout Kentucky and beyond.

    Loretta McGinty - Associate Vice President & Managing Director, Reimbursement & Compliance

    Loretta McGinty, the Associate Vice President & Managing Director, Reimbursement & Compliance at Hosparus Health, leads critical functions ensuring financial viability and adherence to regulatory standards. McGinty oversees the complex processes of healthcare reimbursement, managing claims, payment cycles, and revenue optimization to support the organization's not-for-profit mission. This senior leadership role is instrumental in maintaining compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations governing hospice and palliative care services. Loretta McGinty directs strategies to maximize reimbursement rates while ensuring absolute adherence to compliance protocols, thereby safeguarding the organization's financial health and operational integrity. The Managing Director's focus on reimbursement and compliance directly supports the delivery of essential medical care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses. McGinty's expertise ensures Hosparus Health navigates the intricate financial and regulatory landscape effectively.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Hosparus Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Hosparus Health?
    Hosparus Health is led by David Cook (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sharon Tankersley (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Melissa Merrifield (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of Hosparus Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Hosparus Health includes leaders such as David Cook (President & Chief Executive Officer), Sharon Tankersley (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Melissa Merrifield (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Hosparus Health have?
    Hosparus Health has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Hosparus Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Hosparus Health includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief Information Officer & Network Administrator, Chief Legal Officer.