Steve Baker has been named the new president and CEO of Columbus Regional Health (CRH), effective April 1, succeeding Jim Bickel, who is retiring after 17 years in the role. The CRH Board of Trustees established a succession plan separating the president and CEO roles to facilitate the transition, allowing Baker to manage daily operations while Bickel focuses on strategic priorities. Baker, who joined CRH in 1998 and has held various leadership positions, aims to leverage his extensive healthcare management and technology experience to advance the organization’s strategic initiatives. Bickel reflects on his tenure, noting the challenges he faced, including the COVID-19 pandemic and other significant events.

Steve Baker Takes Helm as New CEO of Columbus Regional Health Tribune

Florida is enhancing its prescription drug monitoring efforts by seeking access to patient prescription data to combat drug misuse and the opioid crisis. This initiative aims to analyze prescribing patterns and identify potential abuse cases, supporting public health strategies and improving patient care. Additionally, the state plans to implement educational programs for healthcare professionals focused on responsible prescribing practices. Stakeholders believe that these measures will foster collaboration among healthcare providers, law enforcement, and public health agencies, contributing to safer prescribing and reduced prescription drug abuse.

Florida Enhances Prescription Monitoring to Combat Drug Misuse Crisis Apple News

At the HIMSS25 conference, Bill Russell addressed the intersection of healthcare and technology, emphasizing the impact of an upcoming cybersecurity rule from HHS on reimbursement models and planning for the coming year. He discussed the emerging "hospital of the future," driven by advanced technologies, and stressed the need for healthcare organizations to enhance efficiencies and achieve ROI within a year. Russell also defended the relevance of HIMSS as a key venue for networking and establishing partnerships in the healthcare sector, highlighting its role in facilitating learning and business opportunities.

HIMSS25 Highlights Urgent Need for Healthcare Tech Advancements Amid Regulatory Changes LinkedIn

Healthcare leadership is evolving as CIOs Chuck Podesta, Jeri Koester, and Chero Goswami discuss the importance of adaptability in facing challenges. Podesta emphasizes leveraging obstacles for growth, while Koester highlights the need for flexibility, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, advocating for time management strategies that support both work and personal life. Podesta further stresses the value of focusing on essential tasks and foundational stability within organizations, noting his efforts at Renown Health to improve team morale and implement critical changes for sustainable growth.

Transformative Leadership: Healthcare Executives Embrace Challenges for Growth This Week Health