CoxHealth names president, CEO

Provided by CoxHealth

Max Buetow has been a CoxHealth employee since 2012.

CoxHealth named its successor to President and CEO Steve Edwards.

Max Buetow, who is currently executive vice president and chief operating officer, is slated to take on the top role in June, according to a news release.

“In Max Buetow, we found the right person to continue CoxHealth’s high-level focus on patient care. He has demonstrated his passion for this organization, for our patients and for our 12,500 CoxHealth team members,” said Rob Fulp, chair of the CoxHealth Board of Directors, in the release. “We are excited for all he will bring to the table as we embark on CoxHealth’s next chapter.

"We wouldn’t be where we are today without Steve’s leadership, and Max will continue to expand on the great work Steve has done.”

Buetow has been a CoxHealth employee since 2012, the same year Edwards became the health care system's leader.

Prior to his current role, Buetow served as vice president of Cox Medical Group, a position through which he led over 750 integrated physicians and providers, and the health care system's neuroscience service line, according to the release. In recent years, Buetow is credited with pioneering CoxHealth's so-called super clinics, at which a variety of health care services are provided.

“I am committed to leading with integrity, humility and compassion, putting the interests of our patients and organization before my own," Buetow said in the release. "Ultimately, we will bring together our individual talents and energies to produce exceptional results for those who need us the most.”

Buetow received unanimous approval from the board to become president and CEO. A four-month search process involved the hiring of national executive talent firm NuBrick Partners and a nine-member search committee from the board.

Buetow will lead CoxHealth’s six hospitals, more than 80 clinics and five emergency rooms. The health system is the largest employer in Springfield.

In 2021, CoxHealth won its category in Springfield Business Journal's Economic Impact Awards for organizations with more than 75 years in business. The health care system reported 2020 revenue of $5.9 billion.

Edwards announced his retirement from CoxHealth late last year. He's been a CoxHealth employee since 1992, and his father, Charlie Edwards, was a previous CEO of the regional health system.