Karen Springer

Karen Springer is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Saint Thomas Health Services, a role she has held since 2011. In this capacity, she is responsible for the operational success and effectiveness of the organization's hospital facilities, physician practices, and various joint ventures. Under her leadership, Saint Thomas Health has focused on enhancing organizational effectiveness and fostering innovation, which has contributed to improved financial performance and quality of care for patients.13

Springer has a rich background in healthcare, beginning her career in nursing. Prior to her current position, she served as the executive vice president and COO of Lutheran Hospital of Indiana for four years. Her experience at Saint Thomas Health includes significant initiatives aimed at expanding access to care, such as partnerships with local schools to introduce students to healthcare professions and launching wellness programs for staff.134

Additionally, Springer has been instrumental in advocating for the uninsured and underinsured populations, leading medical missions that serve thousands annually. Her efforts have also involved building relationships with health insurance providers to better manage community health outcomes.12