Executive appointed to oversee Novant’s $2.4B investment in Mount Pleasant, 2 others

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Novant Health has named Jason Bernd senior vice president and president of the South Carolina region following the not-for-profit health system’s recent purchase of three Lowcountry hospitals and associated operations.

In his new role, Bernd is charged with partnering with hospital CEOs in Mount Pleasant, Hilton Head and Hardeeville along with clinical leadership teams to recruit physicians and grow services, advance quality care and prioritize strategic needs, according to a Novant Health news release. He will also help link the work of team members with the community by building partnerships and connecting with local leaders, the release stated.

Related story: $2.4B deal buys 3 South Carolina hospitals, including Mount Pleasant facility

“Jason is a versatile and driven leader, and I’m confident he will effectively deliver on our long-term goals to expand specialty services and clinical expertise in South Carolina by working with the facility leaders to prioritize the unique needs of each community,” Carl S. Armato, Novant Health president and CEO, said in the release. “I recently spent time visiting these South Carolina hospitals, and I have an even greater appreciation for the impressive team members and clinicians who will help launch our ambitious vision of future health and wellness.”

Bernd, who joined Novant Health in 2006, has most recently served as president and chief operating officer of Novant Health Matthews Medical Center. He also served as president and chief operating officer of Novant Health Charlotte Orthopedic Hospital for five years, and before that held leadership roles in financial planning and analysis, heart and vascular care, cancer services and the Novant Health Medical Group.

“South Carolina was the fastest-growing state in the country last year, and we recognize the need to discover new ways we can offer convenient access to quality care that’s close to home,” Bernd said in the release. “I am eager to start building collaborative relationships with our clinicians, team members, patients and regional leaders as we map out our exciting future together.”

Bernd earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Virginia and a master’s degree in business administration from Stanford University. He currently serves on the board of trustees for the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and the boards of Discovery Place, Wingate University and the Union County Chamber of Commerce, the release said.

“After 17 years at Novant Health, I am continually impressed to see all the ways our clinicians continue to innovate and elevate patient care,” Bernd said in the release. “In South Carolina, I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated team members as we pursue the highest standards of clinical performance.”