The announcement was made Tuesday evening during the board’s monthly meeting. Worden will serve through the search process and appointment of a permanent CEO.
“I’m excited to maintain my roots in the Pacific Northwest and join Bartlett Regional Hospital,” said Worden. “I believe my experience and expertise will be valuable to the board as the organization takes further steps to achieve its strategic imperatives and a patient-centered sustainable model.”
Worden has more than 25 years of leadership experience in health care and most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in Seattle, Washington. He previously served as the COO of CHI Franciscan Health from 2015 to 2021 prior to the merger. Worden led St. Vincent Health System, a 23-hospital system, and the largest health care system in Indiana, as its Executive Vice President/COO for over 12 years. Worden joined St. Vincent in 2000 as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). From 1995 to 2000, he was the CFO at PeaceHealth in Eugene, Oregon.
“The board would like to express our appreciation to Nate Rumsey for stepping into the role of Acting CEO during this transition period,” said Kenny Solomon-Gross, Board President. “We value Nate’s continued leadership in the organization.”
Worden received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Florida State University. He holds master’s degrees in neuroscience, finance, and health services administration from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He is planning to join Bartlett in late October.
