Editor’s note: A previous version of this story included the acronym CEO in the headline. Cynthia Barginere was named COO.
WORCESTER—UMass Memorial Health has announced a significant addition to its leadership team, with the selection of Cynthia Barginere, DNP, RN, FACHE, as the health system’s new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In a recent memo, Dr. Eric Dickson, MD, president of UMass Memorial Health, shared the news of Barginere’s appointment, highlighting her extensive experience and leadership credentials. Barginere officially joins UMass Memorial Health in January 2025, transitioning from her current role as senior vice president for UCSF Health and president of adult hospitals.
In her role as COO, Barginere also serves as president of UMass Memorial Health Community Entities, Inc., overseeing community-focused branches such as Marlborough Hospital, HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital, Harrington, Milford, and Community Healthlink. Additionally, the president of UMass Memorial Medical Center will report to her.
“I am thrilled that someone of Cynthia’s caliber and deep experience will be joining the UMass Memorial Health system as our system chief operating officer,” wrote Dickson.
The announcement also includes two other key changes. Justin Precourt, RN, DNP, NEA-BC, who has been serving as Interim President of UMass Memorial Medical Center, assumes the position permanently. During his tenure, Precourt has navigated challenges such as a systemwide inpatient capacity crisis and has been instrumental in planning for the opening of the North Pavilion, a new wing adding 72 beds, according to the memo.
Additionally, Dr. Andy Karson has been appointed as the system chief physician officer and system chief medical officer, succeeding Dr. Steve Tosi, who is set to retire. In this role, Karson will focus on strategic direction for clinical operations and integration of medical services across the system, collaborating closely with Barginere and other senior leaders.
Barginere brings nearly 25 years of executive healthcare experience to her new position. She began her career as chief nursing officer at the University of Alabama Hospital, a major trauma center with more than 5,300 employees, where she contributed to the hospital’s Magnet Recognition for nursing excellence.
She later held executive roles at Baptist Medical Center South and the Rush University System for Health, where her responsibilities included cost management, revenue enhancement, and the implementation of Lean process improvements. Most recently, she has led efforts at UCSF Health to integrate and optimize operations across multiple hospitals, contributing to UCSF’s high standards in patient care and financial performance.
Dickson acknowledged the contributions of the search committee, co-chaired by Dr. Tiffany Moore Simas and Kait Urlaub, as well as system leadership and board members, for their thorough vetting of candidates. He also expressed gratitude to Precourt and Karson for their commitment and leadership.
“These changes mark an important milestone for UMass Memorial as we continue to grow and evolve as an integrated health system,” he noted.
News release? Send it to Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
