George Regional Health System Welcomes New CEO

George Regional Health System (GRHS) welcomed a new Chief Executive Officer in January—Greg Havard. Havard brings more than 18 years of healthcare experience to the growing health system which includes two hospitals, two nursing homes, and five medical clinics. Havard comes to GRHS from Gulfport Memorial Hospital where he served a dual role of Financial Controller and President of Memorial Physician Corporation (Managed Care Division). Prior to that, he was CEO of Pioneer Community Hospital of Early County, Georgia.

Having held diverse positions in the healthcare industry, Havard’s experience includes X-ray and CT Technologist, Manager of CT and MRI, Manager and later Director of Business Development, as well as Director of Finance and Support Services for clinic operations. “I’ve had the opportunity to serve in a number of different settings within the healthcare industry and that broad experience has given me a unique perspective on healthcare. I believe my experience will mesh well with George Regional Health System and the community” Havard adds.

Havard’s philosophy on achieving and sustaining a successful healthcare system starts with: Compliance (state and federal regulations), Quality, and Customer Satisfaction. “Attaining success in these three areas provides us a small opportunity to succeed in the larger area of customer perception; after all, our quality of care ranks as high our higher than other healthcare providers but a customer’s perception of our care is what motivates them to utilize our services instead of going elsewhere.”

As a native and life-long resident of George County, Havard understands how important this health system is to the community. “Our healthcare system will not only serve the healthcare needs of our residents but it will also serve as an economic engine to fuel growth and prosperity for our families and friends in the community,” he emphasizes.

Havard and his wife Shay have two daughters, Faith (12) and Ella (9). “I was actually born at this hospital and have remained a lifelong resident of the county ever since. I’m looking forward to serving alongside our staff and I’m confident our healthcare system has a bright future ahead of it.”