New chief executive officer announced at Memorial Satilla

Memorial Satilla Health is pleased to announce Damon Barrett as its new Chief Executive Officer. He started September 2.

“I am pleased to announce that 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. Damon 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 that have enhanced both the patient and colleague experience. During his tenure, he 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, Damon 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.

Damon 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.

Damon 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 a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

“I’m honored to join Memorial Satilla Health, a hospital with deep roots in this community and limitless potential ahead. The pride, passion and commitment of this team makes it clear.  Together, we are ready to achieve something extraordinary,” Barrett said.

Originally from Australia, Damon is excited to join the Waycross community with his wife, Megan, and their two children, Brinley and Miles.