Palomar Health Executive and Leadership Team

Robert Hemker, the Chief Executive Officer at Palomar Health, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire health system. Overseeing the expansion of clinical services across North County, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all facilities maintain rigorous standards of patient care. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to align operational goals with long-term financial sustainability. By optimizing resource allocation, Robert Hemker drives the organization toward improved health outcomes for the regional population. The Chief Executive Officer manages complex stakeholder relationships while fostering a culture of excellence within the medical community. Through the implementation of advanced healthcare technologies, Hemker secures the competitive position of the system in the California market. This executive leadership ensures that the mission of providing accessible, high-quality medical services remains the primary focus of every department within the organization.

Hugh King, the Chief Financial Officer at Palomar Health, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire organization. Overseeing the budgeting process and revenue cycle management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all clinical departments possess the necessary resources to deliver superior patient care. This leadership role involves rigorous analysis of market trends to maintain the financial stability of the health system. By implementing cost-effective operational models, Hugh King drives efficiency across all North County facilities. The Chief Financial Officer coordinates with the executive team to evaluate investment opportunities in medical technology and infrastructure. Through precise financial forecasting, King supports the long-term growth objectives of the system. This executive oversight guarantees that fiscal discipline remains a cornerstone of the organization, allowing for the continued expansion of essential healthcare services throughout the region.

Ronald Feldman, the President at Palomar Health, directs the execution of corporate strategy and oversees the performance of key business units within the health system. Overseeing the alignment of departmental goals with the overarching mission, the President ensures that the organization maintains a focus on growth and service excellence. This leadership role involves managing high-level partnerships and community relations to strengthen the presence of the system in North County. By fostering collaboration between clinical and administrative teams, Ronald Feldman drives operational synergy and efficiency. The President works closely with the executive team to identify new market opportunities and service lines that address the evolving needs of the population. Through strategic oversight, Feldman supports the long-term viability and success of the organization. This executive position remains critical for translating the vision of the health system into tangible results and sustainable community impact.

Russell Riehl, the Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical at Palomar Health, directs the operational integration of the medical group and the broader health system. Overseeing the coordination between outpatient clinics and hospital facilities, the Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical ensures a seamless patient experience across the continuum of care. This leadership role involves optimizing the business model of the medical group to enhance service accessibility in North County. By streamlining administrative workflows, Russell Riehl drives efficiency and improves the financial performance of the medical group. The Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical collaborates with clinical leaders to expand service offerings and patient reach. Through strategic management, Riehl supports the growth of the medical group as a vital component of the overall health system strategy.

Charles Callery, the Chief of Staff at Palomar Health, coordinates the administrative functions and strategic initiatives that support the executive leadership team. Overseeing the flow of information between departments, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational priorities receive immediate attention and proper execution. This leadership role involves facilitating communication across the health system to maintain alignment with the core mission of patient-centered care. By streamlining internal processes, Charles Callery drives operational efficiency and reduces administrative friction. The Chief of Staff manages high-level projects that impact the entire North County network, ensuring that all clinical and non-clinical teams work toward unified goals. Through proactive problem-solving, Callery supports the Chief Executive Officer in navigating complex healthcare challenges. This executive position remains vital for maintaining the structural integrity and operational focus of the organization during periods of rapid growth and industry change.

Pam Sime, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Palomar Health, directs the talent acquisition, retention, and organizational development strategies for the entire workforce. Overseeing the recruitment of specialized medical professionals, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all facilities maintain adequate staffing levels to provide high-quality care. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs that foster professional growth and clinical excellence. By cultivating a positive workplace culture, Pam Sime drives employee engagement and reduces turnover across the North County network. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with department heads to align workforce capabilities with the evolving needs of the health system. Through the implementation of modern performance management systems, Sime supports the overall mission of the organization. This executive function remains essential for building a resilient, skilled team capable of meeting the complex demands of the modern healthcare environment.

Gerald Bracht, the Chief Administrative Officer at Palomar Health, manages the daily operational logistics and facility management functions across the health system. Overseeing the maintenance and optimization of physical infrastructure, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all clinical environments meet safety and efficiency standards. This leadership role involves coordinating support services that enable medical staff to focus entirely on patient outcomes. By streamlining supply chain processes and facility workflows, Gerald Bracht drives operational excellence throughout the North County region. The Chief Administrative Officer works closely with other executives to integrate new technologies into existing hospital operations. Through rigorous oversight of administrative systems, Bracht supports the long-term sustainability of the organization. This executive role remains critical for ensuring that the physical and operational foundations of the health system remain robust, reliable, and fully aligned with the broader strategic goals of the institution.

Kevin DeBruin, the Chief Legal Officer at Palomar Health, directs the legal strategy, regulatory compliance, and risk management frameworks for the entire organization. Overseeing the navigation of complex healthcare laws, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that all clinical and administrative practices adhere to state and federal requirements. This leadership role involves protecting the interests of the health system while facilitating partnerships that expand service reach. By mitigating legal risks, Kevin DeBruin drives the stability and reputation of the organization within the North County market. The Chief Legal Officer provides essential guidance on governance matters and contractual obligations to the executive team. Through proactive legal counsel, DeBruin supports the strategic initiatives of the system, ensuring that all growth efforts remain compliant and secure. This executive position remains vital for maintaining the integrity of the health system in an increasingly regulated and litigious industry landscape.

Omar Khawaja, the Chief Medical Officer at Palomar Health, directs the clinical quality, patient safety, and medical staff standards across all facilities. Overseeing the implementation of evidence-based medicine, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that the health system delivers superior care to the North County community. This leadership role involves collaborating with physicians and nursing leadership to standardize clinical protocols and improve patient outcomes. By monitoring quality metrics, Omar Khawaja drives continuous improvement in medical service delivery. The Chief Medical Officer manages the credentialing and professional development of the medical staff, ensuring that the organization attracts and retains top-tier clinical talent. Through the integration of advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, Khawaja supports the mission of providing innovative healthcare. This executive function remains essential for maintaining the clinical excellence and reputation of the health system in a competitive medical landscape.