Northwest Health appoints Chris York market CEO

Springdale-based healthcare organization Northwest Health has named Chris York its market CEO, effective Jan. 24, according to a Tuesday (Jan. 4) news release.

York, who is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, will replace former market CEO Denten Park who resigned in July and relocated out of state to be closer to family. According to the release, York will lead the growth and development of the organization and work with its leaders to advance strategic initiatives and support the work to expand healthcare services, quality and patient experience.

“My wife and I are eager to relocate to the Northwest Arkansas area,” York said. “We fell in love with the area a few years ago and jumped at the opportunity to relocate and join Northwest Health. Northwest Arkansas and Northwest Health have an exciting future – especially with the rapid growth the area has seen over the last 10 years. I’m excited about the opportunity to work with our teams across the market to further the health system’s initiatives and enhance access to quality healthcare for patients in the community.”

York has worked in the healthcare industry for nearly 30 years and “has helped build cultures of excellence focused on patients and families, quality safety and team and provider engagement,” according to the release. “He has consistently implemented initiatives that have successfully grown market share and enhanced the quality of care.”

He has spent the past 14 years working for Baylor Scott & White Health in Texas, and most recently, as president of Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Grapevine. Under his leadership, the hospital achieved a five-star rating by Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services, U.S. News & World Report recognition, Top 100 Hospital rating by IBM/Watson Health and an A grade by the Leapfrog Group.

“Chris is a highly accomplished healthcare executive who has a demonstrated track record for expanding healthcare services and creating an excellent experience for patients and staff,” said Peter Christie, chairman of the Northwest Medical Centers’ Board of Trustees and mayor of Bella Vista. “His collaborative style and passion for quality will serve this community well and position us to build upon many positive initiatives already underway. We are fortunate to have a leader with his experience and expertise to join Northwest Health and become a part of this growing Northwest Arkansas community.”

York has served on the boards of directors of multiple organizations, including the chamber of commerce and GRACE, a nonprofit that assists people and families in crisis.

Northwest Health operates five hospitals in Northwest Arkansas and has a combined medical staff of more than 900 physicians and 2,400 employees.