Simon K. Ratliff has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Northwest Health – La Porte and Northwest Health – Starke.

Ratliff has served as interim CEO for the hospitals since February 5 of this year.

Ratliff has more than two decades of healthcare leadership experience serving at both large and small organizations. Most recently he served as President and CEO at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital in Northeastern Pennsylvania, where he was responsible for a 412-bed hospital with a medical staff of more than 400 physicians representing nearly 60 medical and surgical specialties. Prior to that, he has held healthcare executive roles in West Virginia, Arizona and Kentucky. 

“We are excited to officially welcome Simon to the Northwest Health team,” said Jessica Romine, Chair, Northwest Health – La Porte Board of Trustees. “With his strong leadership skills, knowledge of hospital operations and experience in physician recruitment, we know that the he is the right person to lead our hospitals into a rewarding future.”

“Simon brings extensive experience in healthcare leadership and a strong strategic vision,” said Kathy Norem, Chair, Northwest Health – Starke Community Board of Directors. “Our board looks forward to working with him, as we know he will serve our hospitals and communities well.”

Ratliff earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Midway University in Midway, Kentucky and a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management from Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights, Kentucky. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has earned the Certified Professional in Patient Safety credential, which is the highest level offered by the Institute of Healthcare Improvement.