St. Francis Hospital announced that Melody Trimble has been named chief executive officer (CEO), effective February 10. Trimble replaces Jerry Dooley, who has been serving as interim CEO while the hospital conducted a search to find its next permanent leader.

“Melody is a talented healthcare executive who brings a sharp focus on quality and patient safety to her new role, as well as proven operations expertise and clear strategies for growth,” said Cherie Sibley, president of LifePoint Health’s Central Division, of which St. Francis is a part. “She is passionate about helping St. Francis find new ways to serve the community and advance its mission of Making Communities Healthier. I look forward to everything the dedicated team at St. Francis will accomplish under her leadership.”

Trimble is a veteran healthcare leader, most recently serving in a dual role as CEO of Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC) in Johnson City, Tennessee, and as vice president for Mountain States Health Alliance’s Washington County division, where she was responsible for several other facilities in the region. She formerly served in several roles for Health Management Associates, including as president of the organization’s Health Management Group, in Naples, Florida; market CEO for Sparks Medical Center in Fort Smith, Arkansas; market CEO for Venice Regional Medical Center in Venice, Florida; and CEO of Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center (also a LifePoint Health facility) in Hartsville, South Carolina.

“In addition to her track record of operational success, Melody’s sincere passion for people and commitment to providing high quality care made her a natural choice for this important leadership role,” said Joel David Fine, M.D., chief of staff for St. Francis Hospital. “With Melody at the helm, I am confident that the future is bright for St. Francis Hospital, and we are thrilled to welcome her to Columbus.”

A fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Trimble earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky, and a Master of Nursing from the University of Kentucky in Lexington.

“St. Francis Hospital is a vital part of Columbus, and I am so honored to join this talented team as we pursue new and meaningful ways of Making Communities Healthier,” said Trimble. “The road ahead is filled with opportunities to enhance and expand our legacy of care in the communities we serve, and I look forward to embarking on this next chapter together.”