Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center announces new CEO, Jonathan Koonce

PRESTONBURG, KY (LOOTPRESS) – Jonathan Koonce has been announced as the new CEO of Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center.

The announcement came on Tuesday with ARH Chief Operating Officer Paul Betz praising the experience and skills being brought to the position by the Bentonville, Arkansas native.

“Johnathan joins ARH after serving in administrative and CEO roles at several large hospitals in Arkansas, Pennsylvania and Mississippi,” Betz said. “His experience, dedication and commitment to providing high-quality healthcare to patients make him the perfect fit to serve as CEO of Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center.”

Koonce brings along with his extensive experience a bachelor’s degree in finance from Harding University as well as a master’s degree in healthcare administration from the University of Arkansas Medical Services.

His previous experience includes time serving as an administrative specialist at Northwest Health Systems in Arkansas, as Crozer Keystone Health Systems facilities hospital administrator in Philadelphia, and as COO for Merit Health River Oaks as well as Interim CEO for Merit Health Rankin in Mississippi.

“When I got to meet the people who worked for ARH and then speak with some members of the community, it became kind of a no-brainer,” said Koonce of his decision to join the Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center team. “Everyone is so dedicated to serving their community, and that really isn’t something you see in healthcare every day.”

After having been inspired by his late grandfather to pursue a career path in the healthcare field, Koonce made a concerted effort to make his goals a reality and has expressed excitement at the prospect of getting started in his new role as CEO.

“I always wanted to find a career that would allow me to give back to the community, and I can’t think of a better field than healthcare, Koonce said. “I’m ecstatic about this opportunity and look forward to continuing the mission of ARH in serving the people of Appalachia.”

Jonathan Koonce, along with his wife – an IAABC Accredited Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant – has two rescue dogs, Chloe and Winnie, as well as Hootie, a foster pup.