Elizabeth Jackson Named Chief Medical Officer of JC Medical Center

Elizabeth Jackson, MD, a prominent figure in the medical community, has been appointed as the new chief medical officer of Johnson City Medical Center (JC Medical Center), effective December 8, 2023. Her selection follows a successful tenure as chief medical officer at Holston Valley Medical Center and Indian Path Community Hospital, where she has served for the past four years.

Dr. Jackson’s extensive experience includes her role as medical director of surgical services at Ballad Health and chairperson of the Ballad Health Clinical Council. A graduate of Milligan College, she earned her medical degree from East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine, where she also completed her surgical residency. Additionally, Dr. Jackson holds a certified physician executive degree and serves as treasurer for the Tennessee Chapter of the American College of Surgeons. In 2024, she will join the Young Fellows Association of the American College of Surgeons governing council, further showcasing her commitment to leadership in the medical field.

Leadership and Vision for Johnson City Medical Center

Lisa Carter, president of Ballad Health’s Southern Region, expressed enthusiasm for Dr. Jackson’s appointment, stating, “Dr. Jackson has established herself as a strong and capable leader in our Kingsport hospitals. We are excited that she will be bringing a wealth of experience and clinical expertise to Johnson City Medical Center.” Carter emphasized Dr. Jackson’s dedication to inspiring clinical teams, which will ultimately benefit patients at the facility’s Level I trauma center.

In her new role, Dr. Jackson will oversee clinical operations, ensuring high-quality care and improved patient outcomes. Her responsibilities also include implementing clinical quality standards and fostering collaboration among medical staff and various departments. Dr. Jackson stated, “My goal as a physician has always been to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes. I am deeply grateful for the exceptional colleagues I’ve worked alongside in Kingsport and look forward to continuing that same commitment to our region at Johnson City Medical Center.”

Rebecca Beck, who became the CEO of Johnson City Medical Center in November, noted her pleasure in working with Dr. Jackson. “Under her leadership, Holston Valley and Indian Path earned multiple quality recognitions and demonstrated measurable improvements in patient safety, clinical outcomes, and team engagement,” Beck remarked. She added that Dr. Jackson brings an award-winning record of excellence, which will be an incredible asset to the medical center.

Addressing Challenges and Enhancing Care

Dr. Leon Bass, the elected chief of the medical staff at Johnson City Medical Center, highlighted the unique challenges of managing a Level I trauma center. “Dr. Jackson’s impressive record ensures that she is well-suited to meet those challenges head-on,” he stated. He also acknowledged her effectiveness as a leader, expressing excitement about her joining the team.

While Dr. Jackson transitions into her new role, Jesse Sulzer, MD, chief medical officer for Johnston Memorial Hospital, will serve as interim chief medical officer for Holston Valley and Indian Path. Dr. Sulzer brings a wealth of experience in operational and clinical leadership, focusing on enhancing physician engagement and collaboration within Ballad Health.

As Dr. Jackson prepares to lead at JC Medical Center, her extensive background and commitment to excellence in patient care position her as a key figure in advancing the quality of health services in the region. Her leadership is expected to foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, ultimately benefiting both healthcare professionals and the community they serve.