Elizabeth Jackson, MD, Appointed Chief Medical Officer at JC Medical Center

Elizabeth Jackson, MD, an esteemed general surgeon and physician leader, has been appointed as the Chief Medical Officer of Johnson City Medical Center (JCMC), effective December 8, 2023. Dr. Jackson brings with her a wealth of experience, having served for the past four years as the Chief Medical Officer for both Holston Valley Medical Center and Indian Path Community Hospital.

In her previous roles, Dr. Jackson was instrumental in enhancing clinical services, serving as the Medical Director of Surgical Services at Ballad Health and chairing the Ballad Health Clinical Council. Her educational background includes a degree from Milligan College and a 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.

Commitment to Quality Care

In a statement, Lisa Carter, president of Ballad Health’s Southern Region, expressed her enthusiasm for Dr. Jackson’s appointment, saying, “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 the positive impact Dr. Jackson’s leadership will have on both the clinical teams and patients at JCMC, which is recognized as a Level I trauma center.

Reflecting on her career, 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 I look forward to continuing that same commitment to our region at Johnson City Medical Center.”

In her new role, Dr. Jackson will oversee clinical operations at JCMC and will be responsible for delivering high-quality care and improving patient outcomes. Her responsibilities will include maintaining clinical quality standards, supporting medical staff, and collaborating with various departments to enhance operational efficiency and strategic growth.

Acknowledgement from Colleagues

Rebecca Beck, the new CEO of Johnson City Medical Center, who started her role in November, noted her pleasure in having worked with Dr. Jackson in Kingsport. Beck remarked, “Under her leadership, Holston Valley and Indian Path earned multiple quality recognitions and demonstrated measurable improvements in patient safety, clinical outcomes, and team engagement.” She emphasized that Dr. Jackson’s award-winning track record will be a significant asset for JCMC.

Dr. Leon Bass, the elected chief of the medical staff at Johnson City Medical Center, highlighted the challenges associated with managing operations at a Level I trauma center. He affirmed, “Dr. Jackson’s impressive record ensures that she is well-suited to meet those challenges head-on. I’m thrilled to welcome her to the Johnson City Medical Center team and look forward to how our teams will grow under her leadership.”

As Dr. Jackson prepares to transition into her new role, Jesse Sulzer, MD, chief medical officer for Johnston Memorial Hospital, will serve as the interim chief medical officer for Holston Valley and Indian Path. Dr. Sulzer is noted for his expertise in operational, clinical, and strategic healthcare leadership, reinforcing Ballad Health’s mission to deliver exceptional care to the community.

Dr. Jackson’s leadership is anticipated to foster a collaborative environment focused on patient care excellence, setting a promising future for Johnson City Medical Center and its community.