Joey Waddell has been named Chief Operating Officer for Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center.

Waddell has worked in healthcare in Kentucky and Indiana for over twenty years. Some roles he has served include X-ray technologist, nuclear medicine technologist, Technical Director of Nuclear Cardiology, and assistant director of imaging. Waddell’s administrative roles include Director of Diagnostic Services, where he managed multiple departments. He served as a hospital assistant administrator before becoming the Chief Operating Officer for Clark Memorial Health in Jeffersonville, IN.

“We are pleased to have Joey join the Highlands ARH team. He brings extensive experience, enthusiasm, and knowledge to the senior leadership team.  By joining the ARH team, Joey has returned home to his roots as he is a native resident of Hazard, Ky.  Joey’s experiences and accomplishments from prior roles will help bring new opportunities to Highlands.  We look forward to working side by side with Joey for the benefit of our patients, staff, and community,” comments Jonathan Koonce, CEO of Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center.

Born at Harlan ARH Hospital, Waddell grew up in Hazard, Kentucky. After high school, he joined the military and graduated from Morehead State University. He then obtained a master’s in health administration from the University of Phoenix.

Waddell comments, “Patients are my main focus. I’m passionate about helping folks and that’s why I got into healthcare. I’m excited to be back home and working with people who are so passionate about what they do, always trying to help people and just do the right thing.”

Being closer to family was part of the appeal of moving back home, but Waddell says another reason played a role in his decision to apply for the position. “I always do my research and look at different health systems and what they’re doing. I was so impressed with Hollie Phillips and the whole ARH team. They’re making big strides, they’re focusing on the patients and just making big improvements in delivering high-quality health care.”

Waddell is a veteran of Just Cause and Desert Storm. He served in the United States Army and earned the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and three Army Achievement Medals.

Waddell and his wife Caitlin are fans of action movies, board and card games, grilling out, and camping.  They have two adult children, Micah and Dylan, and a dog named Kirby. Waddell is a runner and looks forward to trying out the local trails.