Carolyn Sparks named CEO of Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital

Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, a Lifepoint Health hospital, announced that Carolyn Sparks has been named its new chief executive officer (CEO), effective immediately. Sparks, who has served as interim CEO since May, brings over a decade of experience in healthcare leadership to her new role.

Sparks has been a leader with Lifepoint Health since 2013, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership. Before joining Lake Cumberland as the interim leader in May, she served as CEO of Highpoint Health - Riverview and Highpoint Health - Trousdale in Tennessee, where she made a significant impact. During her tenure at Trousdale, Sparks led the facility to achieve the Lifepoint Health National Quality Leader recognition in July 2022, a demonstration of her commitment to transforming safety culture and enhancing patient care standards.

"Carolyn is an exceptional leader whose dedication and expertise have consistently driven positive outcomes," said William Haugh, president of Lifepoint Health’s central division. "Her strategic vision and commitment to quality patient care make her the ideal choice to lead Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. I am confident that under her leadership, Lake Cumberland will continue to thrive and deliver outstanding healthcare services to our community”.

Sparks earned a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the College of William and Mary, in Virginia. She is an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to rural healthcare, being named among Becker’s Healthcare’s top rural hospital CEOs. Carolyn is also a Certified Professional in Patient Safety (CPPS) and has been involved in various community and professional organizations, including serving on the board of the Tennessee Hospital Association’s Small and Rural Health Care, as well as participating in local chambers of commerce and Rotary clubs.

“Stepping into the role of CEO at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital is a true honor,” said Sparks. “Working with such a passionate and skilled team during my interim period has been a privilege, and I look forward to continuing our work together. I am committed to building upon the exceptional services that Lake Cumberland is known for while exploring new ways to improve the health and wellbeing of our community. Together, we will keep advancing our mission of making communities healthier.”