Anika Gardenhire, BSN, RN, has been named the inaugural chief digital information officer of Nashville, Tenn.-based Ardent Health Services.
In the newly created role, Ms. Gardenhire will lead Ardent's digital strategy and leverage data to support the 30-hospital system's digital transformation. She will also partner with CIO Rick Keller to oversee the organization's IT infrastructure and systems.
"Healthcare continues to grow with a focus on digital capabilities that are mutually beneficial for patients and caregivers: improving quality care and experience while enhancing operations," Ms. Gardenhire said in an Oct. 23 news release. "Ardent has positioned itself as a leader in piloting and implementing innovative technologies at scale, and I look forward to working with leaders and team members to build an experience that makes healthcare better and more seamless for all involved."
She previously served as chief customer experience officer and chief digital officer at payer Centene Corp. and assistant vice president of digital transformation at Salt Lake City-based Intermountain Health.
Ardent President and CEO Marty Bonick stated that having a "refined and well-executed digital health strategy is essential to delivering the best care possible."
Ms. Gardenhire reports to Mr. Bonick and started in mid-September.