Ardent Health Services has appointed Terika Richardson chief operating officer, effective September 7. In her new role, Richardson will oversee the operations of Ardent's 30 hospitals and more than 200 sites of care across six states.

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Ardent Health Services has appointed Terika Richardson Chief Operating Officer. (Photo: Business Wire)

Richardson most recently served as president of Advocate Aurora Health's Central Chicagoland Patient Service Area where she oversaw the operations and strategic growth of their hospitals, clinics and ambulatory operations. Under her leadership, the organization standardized best practices across multiple sites, built out key service lines and developed innovative programs to address community health needs. Prior to joining Advocate Aurora in 2016, she was chief executive officer of Retreat Doctors' Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, and served in various leadership roles for HCA and Northwell Health.

"Terika is a dynamic and innovative leader with a strong track record of driving results and creating measurable operational improvements while enhancing culture," said Ardent President and Chief Executive Officer Marty Bonick. "Her experience leading complex healthcare organizations, along with her commitment to placing the patient at the center of every decision, make her an ideal addition to our team. We are excited to welcome her to Ardent as our company enters its next phase of growth."

Richardson earned both an undergraduate degree in biopsychology and cognitive science and a master's degree in public health from the University of Michigan. A fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, she serves on the board of directors for the American Hospital Association's Innovation Committee and Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. She has been recognized as one of Modern Healthcare magazine's Top 25 Minority Executives and Chicago Crain's magazine's 40 Under 40.

"I am excited to join Ardent at such a pivotal time in its growth journey," said Richardson. "I look forward to partnering with the leadership team, employees and physicians to advance the company's strategic goals in ways that support its purpose of caring for people."

About Ardent Health Services

Ardent Health Services invests in people, technology, facilities and communities, focusing on evidence-based practices to improve quality care and patient outcomes. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Ardent's subsidiaries operate 30 acute care hospitals, including one managed hospital, two rehabilitation hospitals and two surgical hospitals, in six states. Ardent is owned by an affiliate of Equity Group Investments (EGI), a Chicago-based private investment firm; Ventas, Inc. (NYSE:VTR), a publicly traded real estate investment trust; and current and former members of Ardent's executive management team.

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