Philip A. Patterson

Background

About Philip A. Patterson

I’m a mission-driven hospital president who believes healthcare leadership is both a business and a calling. For more than three decades, I’ve led hospitals and health systems through transformation—building cultures of excellence where people, purpose, and performance align.As President of Ascension Providence in Waco, Texas, I oversee a $2.2B regional network that serves as an anchor for care, education, and community health. Our teams have transformed Providence from a “Leapfrog D” to an “A” hospital, a CMS 2-Star to 4-Star performer, and one of Newsweek’s Best-in-State Hospitals.I’m most proud of how we’ve done it: • By fostering a culture where compassion and accountability coexist. • By giving associates and physicians a voice in shaping the standard. • By building pathways for marginalized individuals to enter nursing careers and advance within the ministry.My leadership philosophy is grounded in three truths: 1. Culture beats strategy. Faith strengthens focus. People are the difference.Across my career — from Bon Secours to Owensboro Health to Ascension — I’ve seen what happens when leaders create clarity, consistency, and compassion. Hospitals thrive. Communities trust. And people find belonging in their work.Let’s connect if you’re passionate about transforming healthcare through mission, innovation, and heart.