Washington County Regional Medical Center (WCRMC) announces that CEO Pam Stewart has been recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the “146 Rural Hospital and Health System Presidents and CEOs to Know” for 2026. This national distinction highlights the leaders who are making an extraordinary impact on rural healthcare across the country.
Stewart’s connection to WCRMC spans decades, beginning with childhood hours spent in the hospital kitchen where her mother served as food service manager and dietician. She launched her nursing career at the medical center in 1992 and advanced through leadership roles including director of nursing and chief nursing officer. She then spent nearly a decade as a nurse surveyor with The Joint Commission, an experience that deepened her expertise in accreditation standards and healthcare operations on a national scale. In 2023, she returned home to lead WCRMC as CEO.
Since her return, Pam has led a remarkable transformation. A hospital once commonly found on lists of facilities at risk of closure has earned a place on the Chartis 2026 “Top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals” list and achieved a significant financial turnaround. Under her leadership, WCRMC has expanded orthopedic surgery services and opened a new emergency department in April 2026.
She has also channeled personal resilience into lasting community impact. Following a 2017 stage 4 Glioblastoma Multiforme diagnosis, she founded the Pam Stewart Cancer Foundation to support brain cancer research and continues to spread a message of hope to others facing similar battles. She serves on the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the executive committee of the UGA Archway Partnership with Washington County.
“This recognition is a testament to the incredible team at WCRMC and the community that supports us every day,” said Stewart. “Rural healthcare is not without its challenges, but our people prove time and again that world-class care can happen right here at home. I am honored to represent this hospital and the patients and families we serve.”
Becker’s Hospital Review selected leaders based on nominations and editorial research, recognizing those who are driving organizational success, strengthening patient care, and advancing the future of rural health.
To view the full list of honorees, visit Becker’s Hospital Review online.
To learn more about Washington County Regional Medical Center and its services, visit www.wcrmc.com.
About Becker’s Healthcare
Becker’s Healthcare is the go-to source for healthcare decision-makers and one of the fastest growing media platforms in the industry. Through print, digital and live event platforms, Becker’s Healthcare equips healthcare leaders with information and forums they need to learn, exchange ideas and further conversations about the most critical issues in American healthcare today.