G. Owen Bailey, CEO and senior associate vice president for medical affairs of USA Health, has received the Alabama Hospital Association’s highest honor, the Gold Medal of Excellence.

The award was presented June 13 during the Association’s Annual Meeting.

The Gold Medal of Excellence is reserved for leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary service and shaped the state’s healthcare landscape. It is awarded only when an individual’s contributions merit the Association’s top recognition.

“Owen Bailey embodies the very best of healthcare leadership in Alabama,” said Donald E. Williamson, MD, president and CEO of the Alabama Hospital Association. “Through decades of service, he has led with humility, conviction and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those he serves. His leadership has helped shape a stronger healthcare landscape across our state, and it is a privilege to recognize him with this honor.”

Bailey, a seasoned executive with 38 years in healthcare administration, has served as CEO of USA Health, the University of South Alabama’s academic medical system, since 2016. Under his leadership, the system has expanded significantly, adding care delivery sites across Alabama and Mississippi and enhancing access for both urban and rural communities.

He has also been an active voice for the state and the nation. A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Bailey has served on numerous boards, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, the Business Council of Alabama — where he currently chairs the Health Committee — the University of Mobile and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. He is a past chairman of the Alabama Hospital Association, the Southwest Council of AlaHA, the Mobile Area Education Foundation and the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council.

Bailey’s accomplishments have earned him accolades such as Modern Healthcare’s Up and Comer Award, the American College of Healthcare Executives’ Young Healthcare Executive of the Year and Regent’s Award, the American Hospital Association’s Grassroots Champion Award, the Alabama Hospital Association’s Distinguished Service Award and a spot on Becker’s “Academic Medical Center CEOs to Know” list.

More than his accomplishments, colleagues recognize Bailey for the character that has defined his career.

“This award is not given lightly,” Williamson said. “It reflects not only a record of exceptional service, but also the lasting influence of a leader who has shaped the future of healthcare in Alabama. We are proud to honor Owen Bailey for his lifelong commitment to advancing health and transforming lives.”

For more information about USA Health, visit www.usahealthsystem.com.