Media Relations

Baptist Health Board Appoints New President & Chief Executive Officer

October 1, 2004 -- Baptist Health’s Board of Directors announced the appointment of W. Russell Tyner as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Baptist Health effective September 28, 2004.

Tyner had served as interim President and CEO since March 2004. He will be responsible for charting the strategic direction of Baptist Health.

“We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” states John Henig, Jr., Chairman of the Baptist Health Board of Directors. “Over the past several months, we’ve observed Mr. Tyner’s strong leadership skills and, after consulting with our hospital administrators and medical staff, made a unanimous decision in the best interest of this organization.”

Prior to joining Baptist Health, Tyner served as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at UAB Medical West in Birmingham. He is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of healthcare leadership experience and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications/Journalism from the University of Alabama.

“Mr. Tyner’s experience, accomplishments, leadership qualities and dedication to the mission of Baptist Health make him uniquely suited to guide our organization into the future,” said Henig.

It is a privilege to be selected to lead such a distinguished faith-based organization with a rich history of patient care and a staff dedicated to excellence,” said Tyner. “I am wholly committed to ensuring Baptist Health remains the healthcare provider of choice for central Alabama. By partnering with our physicians and staff, Baptist Health will continue to provide the most advanced technology and healthcare services.”

“We are indeed fortunate and very excited that Russ has agreed to become our permanent CEO. He is, by far, the best healthcare leader I have worked with in my 25 year career and will be a tremendous asset to not only Baptist Health, but to our community as well,” remarked Robin Barca, Baptist Health’s Chief Operating Officer.