Hazard, KY – Renee Milanes has been named Chief Nursing Officer for Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center.

Milanes brings more than 30 years of healthcare leadership experience in both acute and post-acute care settings. Her background includes serving as Chief Nursing Officer at various facilities, as well as holding regional and system-level positions in quality and clinical operations. “We are excited to welcome Renee to our leadership team. Her passion for nursing, commitment to patient care, and focus on supporting staff make her a perfect fit for our organization and mission. Her experience and vision will continue the growth of our nursing team,” comments Brian Springate, Hazard ARH CEO.

Originally from South Carolina, Milanes moved to Kentucky in January for an interim role as the Chief Nursing Officer of the ARH – Advanced Care Long-Term Acute Care Hospitals. Initially, her plan was to remain in the interim position until a permanent candidate was hired, then pursue an interim assignment elsewhere. However, that changed. Milanes says, “The beauty and tranquility of the mountains in Eastern Kentucky, combined with the kindness of the people, immediately drew me in. There’s a sense of peace and connection that makes this community feel truly special.”

Milanes has always had a desire to serve people, which naturally led her to choose nursing as her career. During her childhood, she experienced firsthand the kindness, compassion, and quiet strength of nurses, and their care left a lasting impression. This experience fueled her desire to become a nurse, and she says, “From the moment I entered the profession, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.” When asked why she chose to work for ARH, Milanes says, “That same commitment to be of service to others is what drew me to ARH. ARH’s mission

to serve the Appalachian community closely aligns with my own purpose and passion for caring for others. In the short time that I have been in Kentucky, I’ve seen that this mission isn’t just a statement on a poster. It truly drives the organization’s operations. Transitioning into the CCNO role is not only a professional step, but a meaningful continuation of the work I feel called to do.”

In her free time, Milanes enjoys spending time outdoors, attending country concerts, and dancing, saying, “If music is playing, my feet are moving.”

“My journey in healthcare began at the bedside, and that perspective will always guide me. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as CCNO and support the dedicated teams who deliver compassionate, high-quality care to our patients.

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