WAYCROSS – Damon Barrett has been hired as the new Memorial Satilla Health Chief Executive Officer.
“I’m honored to join Memorial Satilla Health, a hospital with deep roots in this comm unity and limitless pot ential ahead,” said Barrett. “The pride, passion and commitment of this team makes it clear. Together, we are ready to achieve something extraordinary.”
Barrett’s first day was Tuesday, September 2.
“I’m pleased to announce Damon Barrett will be joining us as the new CEO of Memorial Satilla Health,” said Hugh Tappan, President of HCA Healthcare’s South Atlantic Division.
Originally from Australia, Barrett said he’s excited to join the Waycross community with his wife, Megan, and their children, Brinley and Miles.
Barrett has been chief operating officer at HCA Florida JFK Hospital since March 2023. While at this post, he has played an instrumental role in advancing key operational and capital improvement projects which have enhanced both the patient and colleague experience.
During his tenure, Barrett led more than $250 million in modernization projects including a $120 million surgical services renovation, a $30 million project to build the new JFK Kennedy Café, and championed the expansion of high-acuity service lines.”
Prior to his role at JFK Hospital, Barrett served as the chief operating officer at HCA Florida Palms West Hospital, where he drove key expansion projects across the emergency department and surgical services, opened a level III NICU, launched a robotic surgery center of excellence and expanded clinical access points.
He played a critical role in advancing patient safety and quality, resulting in a Leapfrog A rating. He also served as the facilities ethics and compliance officer.
Barrett began his career as a physical therapist before joining HCA Healthcare in 2014 as director of rehabilitation services at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital.
He later served as vice president of operations at HCA Florida Aventura Hospital, where he led the construction of a $60 million, 60-bed patient tower, while also serving as cancer program administrator and chief staffing officer.
Barrett holds a doctor of Physical Therapy from Northern Arizona University, a master of Business Administration from Chadron State College, and a Bachelor of Science from San Diego State University. He is also is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
