Columbus Regional Health announced today that Mr. Steve Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer is no longer with the organization, effective immediately.  Former Columbus Regional Health President & CEO Jim Bickel has returned from retirement and assumed the role of Interim President & Chief Executive Officer.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are confident in the future of Columbus Regional Health and are committed to a smooth transition,” said CRH Board Chair, Don Michael. “With his many proven years of exceptional leadership and dedication to CRH and his continued ties to the organization, Jim Bickel with the support of the Board and Senior Leadership, will provide a stable foundation to fulfill this organization’s commitment to the community we serve, and our mission as a local, independent healthcare system.”

Jim Bickel will serve in the Interim role through for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, as needed, while the Columbus Regional Health Board of Trustees finalizes the plan to fill the role of President and Chief Executive Officer role.

“First and foremost, I want reinforce my personal commitment to upholding Columbus Regional Health’s mission, vision, values and culture,” said Jim Bickel, Columbus Regional Health Interim President and CEO. “I have served CRH proudly for 35 years and can personally attest to the positive impact our workforce and the culture within this organization has on the patients and the community we serve. I look forward to leading and supporting this great organization during this time of transition.”