Columbus Regional Health announced on May 4 that Andrew “Andy” Guz will become its next president and chief executive officer, starting July 1. Guz will succeed interim president and CEO Jim Bickel, who is retiring after a 35-year career with the organization.
The appointment comes after what board chair Don Michael described as a comprehensive national search. Michael said, “Following a comprehensive national search, it was clear that Andy is the right leader to guide our organization forward. He brings an outstanding combination of strategic vision, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to community-based care that aligns perfectly with our mission and values.”
Guz has held executive leadership roles in more than five states, including Indiana. Most recently he served as chief executive officer of Manatee Health and Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Florida. In this role he led a regional healthcare network with services such as acute care hospital beds, emergency departments, imaging centers, physician practices, and home health services. According to Columbus Regional Health’s announcement, during his tenure the organization saw growth in operations and finances while expanding programs in cardiovascular care and robotic surgery.
Guz said he is honored to join Columbus Regional Health: “I am honored to join Columbus Regional Health and serve alongside an exceptional team dedicated to delivering outstanding care,” Guz said. “Columbus Regional Health has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and community commitment, and I look forward to partnering with physicians, employees, board members, and community leaders to continue advancing that mission.” He holds a Master of Health Administration from Cornell University as well as a Bachelor of Business Administration from Marshall University.
Michael added: “Andy is a collaborative and transparent leader who understands the importance of strong relationships. We are confident that under his leadership Columbus Regional Health will continue to thrive as an independent high-performing health system.”
Columbus Regional Health serves southcentral Indiana with about 2,600 workforce members including nearly 200 physicians or advanced practice providers at its flagship hospital.
