Staff and physicians at Abrazo Arrowhead Campus, 18701 N. 67th Ave., welcomed Stephen Garner as the hospital’s chief executive officer in October.

This marks a return to the Northwest Valley for Mr. Garner, who previously served as the hospital’s chief operating officer. Mr. Garner rejoins Abrazo after two years as Tenet Palm Beach Group chief operating officer and chief administrative officer of Delray Medical Center in Delray Beach, Florida. Brian Elisco, who joined Abrazo as CEO of the Arrowhead campus earlier this year, transitioned to become chief executive officer of the Tenet Arizona Group, which includes Abrazo Health in Phoenix and Carondelet Health Network in Tucson.

“I’m very happy to be back at Abrazo Arrowhead campus and continue working with our outstanding medical staff and employees. I look forward to reconnecting with the community and introducing our services to those who are new to this growing area,” said Mr. Garner. “It’s important for people to know that it’s safe to go to the hospital and needed care should not be delayed.”

Mr. Garner believes Abrazo Arrowhead Campus is an integral part of the Northwest Valley.

“It is a destination for maternity and newborn care, our cardiovascular and orthopedic services are recognized for quality, the hospital is a leader in minimally invasive and robotic surgery and we are now a teaching hospital. It’s really an exciting time for the Arrowhead campus,” he said. “The new Abrazo Surprise Hospital at Loop 303 and Bell Road is a satellite of the Arrowhead campus, extending our services to a greater number of residents.”

Abrazo Arrowhead campus earned high performing rankings for five adult procedures and conditions in the US News & World Report Best Hospitals 2020-21 — abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, congestive heart failure, colon cancer surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hip replacement.

In his previous role as chief operating officer for Abrazo Arrowhead campus and Abrazo Arizona Heart Hospital 2014-18, Mr. Garner led implementation of several key service line growth initiatives and was actively involved in developing a culture of operational excellence, accountability, safety and quality.

During his tenure at Delray Medical Center, the hospital earned the 2019 and 2020 Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award and America’s 50 Best Hospitals achievement. 

Mr. Garner attended the United States Air Force Academy and earned his bachelor’s, MBA and law degrees from Baylor University. His prior work experience includes health care and private law practice. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Editor’s Note: Mr. Jones is Abrazo Health spokesman.