UF Health St Johns Names New Leadership
Kerry Watson has been named interim chief executive officer and Huson Gilberstadt has been named chief medical officer for UF Health St. Johns, according to a media release.
As CEO, Watson will lead the ongoing process of integrating UF Health St. Johns into the UF Health system, the release states.
“As One UF Health, we are committed to the long-term success of UF Health St. Johns. Kerry’s extensive background will be a stabilizing force in this period of integration,” said Steve Motew, president and system CEO of UF Health, in the release. “With his track record, we are well-positioned to deliver on our mission to provide excellent, safe care to all our patients, so they can get back to enjoying their lives to the fullest extent possible.”
Most recently, Watson completed an assignment as interim CEO for Maui Health System in Hawaii. In this role he provided the leadership bridge and managed the day-to-day operations for Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital, Kula Clinic and Lanai Community Hospital.
Prior to that, Watson successfully completed a number of interim executive leadership assignments with major health care organizations, including Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center. He has also held permanent roles at prominent organizations, including more than 15 years of executive positions with Duke University Health System.
Watson holds a master’s degree in organizational management and a bachelor’s degree in radiology administration and health sciences, and has completed additional postgraduate work at the University of Maryland. He has facilitated numerous leadership programs and presentations across the country and is actively involved in a number of industry, community and philanthropic organizations, the release states.
As CMO, Gilberstadt will serve as UF Health St. Johns’ physician leader, overseeing patient care and clinical effectiveness while promoting a culture of safety and patient satisfaction.
Gilberstadt grew up in Jacksonville, where he graduated from Edward White High School. He attended the University of Georgia before earning his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia.
