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 integration of clinical services across North County, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that all facilities maintain high standards of patient care and operational excellence. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to align long-term growth initiatives with the evolving needs of the community. By optimizing resource allocation and fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders, Robert Hemker drives the expansion of medical capabilities. Hemker maintains a focus on fiscal sustainability while simultaneously championing innovation in healthcare delivery. Through rigorous oversight of system-wide performance metrics, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that the organization remains a premier provider of medical services. Ultimately, Hemker secures the future of the health system by balancing immediate operational demands with a forward-looking strategy that prioritizes patient outcomes and community health.

Hugh King, the Chief Financial Officer at Palomar Health, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire organization. Overseeing complex budgetary frameworks, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all departments operate within established financial parameters while supporting the mission of providing high-quality care to North County. This leadership role involves rigorous analysis of revenue cycles and cost-containment measures to maintain the long-term viability of the health system. By implementing advanced financial modeling, Hugh King drives efficiency across all clinical and administrative units. King collaborates with the executive team to prioritize investments in medical technology and facility upgrades. Through precise management of assets and liabilities, the Chief Financial Officer protects the financial integrity of the institution. Ultimately, King provides the necessary economic foundation that allows the health system to expand services and meet the growing medical demands of the region.

Christopher Walker, the Chief Operating Officer, Palomar Health Medical Group & Vice President, Growth & Business Development, Palomar Health at Palomar Health, directs the daily operations of the medical group while architecting strategies for regional expansion. Overseeing the alignment of clinical workflows with business development goals, the Chief Operating Officer, Palomar Health Medical Group & Vice President, Growth & Business Development, Palomar Health ensures that patient access remains a top priority across North County. This leadership role involves identifying new market opportunities and integrating specialized services into the existing care network. By streamlining operational processes, Christopher Walker drives improvements in service delivery and patient satisfaction. Walker coordinates with other executives to ensure that growth initiatives remain consistent with the broader mission of the health system. Through the effective management of medical group resources, the Chief Operating Officer, Palomar Health Medical Group & Vice President, Growth & Business Development, Palomar Health strengthens the competitive position of the organization in the healthcare market.

Russell Riehl, the Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical at Palomar Health, directs the administrative functions and group-level operations for the medical division. Overseeing the integration of specialized medical services, the Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical ensures that all group activities align with the broader mission of the health system in North County. This leadership role involves managing the operational performance of medical groups and optimizing service delivery models to improve patient access. By streamlining administrative processes, Russell Riehl drives efficiency and supports the growth of the medical division. Riehl collaborates with other leaders to ensure that group operations remain consistent with the strategic goals of the organization. Through the effective management of group resources, the Chief Administrative Officer & Group President, Palomar Health & , Palomar Health Medical strengthens the overall service capacity of the health system.

Ronald Feldman, the President at Palomar Health, directs the execution of organizational strategy and oversees the daily operations of the health system. Overseeing the coordination between various departments, the President ensures that all facilities in North County operate in harmony to achieve the mission of the organization. This leadership role involves translating high-level goals into actionable plans that improve patient care and operational efficiency. By fostering a culture of accountability, Ronald Feldman drives the achievement of key performance indicators across the system. Feldman works closely with the executive team to address operational challenges and capitalize on new opportunities for growth. Through the management of system-wide initiatives, the President maintains the focus on delivering high-quality medical services to the community. Ultimately, Feldman provides the leadership necessary to ensure that the health system remains a leader in the regional healthcare market.

Pam Sime, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Palomar Health, manages the talent acquisition, retention, and organizational development strategies for the entire workforce. Overseeing the cultivation of a high-performance culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that all staff members possess the necessary skills to deliver exceptional care throughout North County. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive benefits programs and professional development pathways that attract top-tier medical professionals. By implementing robust engagement initiatives, Pam Sime drives employee satisfaction and reduces turnover rates across the health system. Sime collaborates with department heads to align workforce planning with the strategic goals of the organization. Through the management of labor relations and compliance standards, the Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a stable and productive environment. Ultimately, Sime supports the mission of the health system by ensuring that the organization remains a preferred employer for healthcare talent in the region.

Gerald Bracht, the Chief Administrative Officer at Palomar Health, directs the internal support functions and operational infrastructure that sustain the health system. Overseeing the efficiency of non-clinical departments, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that all facilities in North County function with seamless coordination. This leadership role involves managing complex administrative workflows and optimizing the use of physical and digital resources to support clinical teams. By standardizing operational procedures, Gerald Bracht drives improvements in organizational productivity and service delivery. Bracht works closely with the executive team to implement policies that enhance the overall patient experience. Through the oversight of facility management and support services, the Chief Administrative Officer maintains the high standards required for modern healthcare environments. Ultimately, Bracht provides the essential administrative backbone that allows the health system to focus on its primary mission of delivering high-quality medical care to the community.

Kevin DeBruin, the Chief Legal Officer at Palomar Health, manages the legal affairs, regulatory compliance, and risk management strategies for the entire organization. Overseeing the navigation of complex healthcare laws, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that all operations across North County adhere to state and federal mandates. This leadership role involves providing counsel on governance, contract negotiations, and liability mitigation to protect the interests of the health system. By establishing rigorous compliance frameworks, Kevin DeBruin drives a culture of accountability and ethical conduct. DeBruin collaborates with the Board and executive leadership to address legal challenges that arise in the dynamic healthcare landscape. Through the proactive management of legal risks, the Chief Legal Officer safeguards the reputation and assets of the institution. Ultimately, DeBruin provides the legal clarity necessary for the health system to pursue its strategic objectives while maintaining full regulatory alignment.

Omar Khawaja, the Chief Medical Officer at Palomar Health, directs the clinical quality, patient safety, and medical standards across all facilities in North County. Overseeing the performance of the medical staff, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that evidence-based practices guide every aspect of patient care. This leadership role involves monitoring clinical outcomes and implementing initiatives to improve the efficacy of treatments and procedures. By fostering a collaborative environment among physicians and nurses, Omar Khawaja drives excellence in medical service delivery. Khawaja works with the executive team to integrate new medical technologies and protocols that enhance patient recovery. Through the rigorous oversight of clinical governance, the Chief Medical Officer maintains the highest standards of safety and quality. Ultimately, Khawaja ensures that the health system remains at the forefront of medical innovation while consistently meeting the health needs of the community.