The California Hospital Association (CHA) has announced the appointment of Bryan Bucklew, FACHE, as its next president and chief executive officer. He will begin his new role on Oct. 26.
Bucklew, who has served as president and CEO of Hospital Council – Northern & Central California since 2018, will lead one of the largest hospital and healthcare system membership organizations in the nation, representing nearly 400 member hospitals, health systems, networks and other providers of care.
“We are delighted to welcome Bryan as CHA’s next president and CEO,” said Julie Sprengel, president and CEO, CommonSpirit Health’s California Region, and chair of CHA’s board. “Bryan brings more than 20 years of hospital association experience, having served hospitals in Ohio and California. He has deep knowledge of our members, a strong understanding of the issues facing California hospitals, and the policy depth and political acumen to lead through today’s challenges and into the future.
“Hospitals are part of the very fabric of California and have never been at greater risk,” she said. “With Bryan at the helm, we will be immediately ready to generate even greater momentum, accelerate hospitals’ advocacy efforts and steer our field toward better healthcare for all Californians.”
Sprengel thanked retiring CHA President and CEO Carmela Coyle. “Carmela has served California hospitals admirably and effectively for nearly a decade,” Sprengel said. “On behalf of the entire field, we’re proud of all she has accomplished for hospitals and for healthcare in California.”
As head of Hospital Council – Northern & Central California for eight years, Bucklew has been the lead advocate for nearly half of California hospitals. He has worked with municipal and county policymakers, including mayors, city councils and county boards of supervisors in 50 of California’s 58 counties. Before that, Bucklew led the Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association in a similar leadership role.
“I am grateful for the trust the CHA Board has placed in me and look forward to working with state and federal policymakers to build an environment where Californians can rely on the care hospitals provide,” Bucklew said.
“California’s hospitals have always been at their best when they lead, innovate and solve difficult problems,” he said. “That is exactly what this moment demands as we work together to ensure high-quality care is more accessible and affordable, strengthens the health of our communities, and builds a healthcare system that serves every Californian.”
Bucklew holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Wright State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Dayton.