Eappen was recognized for his work leading the integrated, academic rural health system serving more than one million people and for his focus on a wide range of priorities—including reserving local services, addressing longstanding challenges that impact health care workers, and shrinking health care disparities—that impact patients, communities, and employees across the health system.
“Rural hospitals play a vital role … eliminating the need for long travel while ensuring excellent health care access close to home. At the helm of these essential institutions are CEOs who wear many hats to keep their communities healthy and supported,” the publication wrote. “Despite challenges like the pandemic and nationwide staffing shortages, these executives have implemented resilient strategies to keep their hospitals thriving for the long haul.”
Eappen said, “The needs of our region are constantly evolving, and our mission is to meet those changes head-on while creating sustainable, affordable, and efficient pathways to health and wellness for our patients. It is an honor to be recognized, but the truth is this isn’t just about me. This recognition reflects an incredibly skilled and committed group of leaders and our trustees, who enable our continued commitment to expanding access, improving quality of care, and addressing the longstanding challenges that drive health disparities in rural communities—both here and across the country.”