Saline Health System names Josh Orzel chief nursing officer

Former interim leader emphasizes caregiver support and family‑centered care

BENTON, Ark. (July 9, 2026) – After serving in an interim capacity since March, Josh Orzel has transitioned into the role of chief nursing officer at Saline Health System.

Orzel said he believes Saline Health System has built a strong and resilient workforce over the past 71 years, and his focus will be on ensuring that workforce continues to thrive.

“My job is to make sure that every patient who walks through our doors is met by a caregiver who feels supported, present and prepared — not stretched thin,” Orzel said. “When our nurses have what they need, patients and families feel the difference in the room.”

Orzel has more than 16 years of healthcare leadership experience. Recent roles include chief nursing officer at Select Specialty Hospital and assistant chief nursing officer at Havasu Regional Medical Center.

He holds a Master of Business Administration in healthcare management from Western Governors University and a Master of Science in trauma services from Queen Mary University of London. He also holds a graduate diploma in business administration and management from Thompson Rivers University and a Bachelor of Science in nursing science from Laurentian University.

In addition to his training and experience, Orzel has shown the kind of steady, people‑first leadership that strengthens nursing teams and improves the patient experience, according to CEO Char Boulch.

"During his time as the interim CNO, he has earned the confidence of our team through his accessibility and his commitment to doing what's right for patients," Boulch said. "Josh listens, he builds relationships and he shows up for people."

About Saline Memorial Hospital

Saline Health System, a part of Lifepoint Health, is made up of Saline Memorial Hospital, a 177-bed acute care facility, and Saline Clinics, a network of primary care and specialty clinics. Saline Memorial Hospital has been caring for Saline County and its surrounding communities for more than 70 years. Saline Memorial Hospital is proud to be recognized as a Leapfrog Grade “A” Hospital for its commitment to patient safety and with the Platinum Performance Achievement Award from the Chest Pain-MI Registry for delivering the highest quality care for cardiac patients. The hospital is accredited through The Joint Commission for meeting quality and safety standards, the American College of Cardiology as a Chest Pain Center, the MBSAQIP as a bariatric surgery center, Optum in the Bariatric Centers of Excellence network, CARF as a rehabilitation center and the AASM as a sleep center.

More information about Saline Memorial Hospital is available at 501.776.6000 or online at SalineMemorial.org. More information about Lifepoint Health is available at LifepointHealth.net.