NEWS RELEASE

July 1, 2021

Appalachian Regional Healthcare Announces Appointment of New System Integration and Government Programs Director

Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH) has appointed Lucas Brooks as the new director of system integration and government programs. Brooks will serve as the executive leader of ARH’s Accountable Care Organization (ACO), ARH CMS Bundled Payment Initiatives, Provider Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicaid Reimbursement Programs.

Brooks, a native of Bell County, will officially assume his duties on July 5.

Brooks began his career with ARH in the department of corporate strategy. Following the completion of an Administrative Fellowship with UNC Health, he returned to ARH.  Most recently, he served as Assistant Administrator at Barbourville ARH Hospital, managing operations of ancillary departments and special projects. While at ARH, Brooks has facilitated the system’s Bundled Payment Program, the opening of a new clinic and pharmacy and strategic analysis for various system initiatives.  He also was selected this year to participate in the ARH Leadership Academy Class.

Brooks completed a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Ky. and a bachelor’s degree in economics and finance and politics from Centre College in Danville, Ky.

“We are pleased to have Lucas lead ARH’s ACO and government programs,” said Hollie Harris Phillips, ARH President and CEO.  “His familiarity with ARH, leadership skills and commitment to providing quality care to the people of Central Appalachia will serve him well in this role.”

Brooks is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and serves on the ACHE’s Advancement Committee and the UK College of Public Health’s Alumni Committee.

“I am ecstatic for the opportunity to serve as the executive leader of ARH’s Appalachian Health Network ACO. As an Eastern Kentucky native, it is an honor to serve in a role that focuses on improving the health of Central Appalachia. I look forward to partnering with providers and the community to provide sustainable, highly coordinated, high-quality care systems to improve the health and well-being of the region,” stated Brooks.