In a significant announcement, Broward Health has appointed Cornelius Powell, M.D., MBA, CHCQM, as the new Chief Medical Officer for Broward Health North. This decision, made public on June 4, 2026, reflects the organization’s commitment to strong leadership and high-quality care in the communities it serves.
Dr. Powell is described as a dynamic physician leader with a proven track record in advancing clinical excellence, enhancing operational performance, and promoting patient-centered care. Matthew Garner, the CEO of Broward Health North, stated, “Dr. Powell is an outstanding addition to Broward Health North and our entire healthcare system.”
He brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center in Virginia. Here, he was responsible for overseeing medical affairs, quality, infection prevention, trauma services, and critical care, among other sectors. His leadership in launching successful programs in trauma care, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and obstetrics contributed to improving patient safety and enhancing the overall experience for patients.
Dr. Powell's leadership led to Sentara Williamsburg earning a Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade “A,” marking a significant achievement in hospital safety and quality metrics. His tenure was characterized by substantial improvements in key performance indicators such as readmissions, emergency department throughput, and the overall length of patient stay.
Before joining Sentara Williamsburg, Dr. Powell held various senior leadership positions, including the Regional Medical Director and Vice President of Operations at American Physician Partners. In this role, he managed over 200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians across multiple states. His extensive career also includes key leadership roles at Tucson Medical Center and John Peter Smith Hospital, where he oversaw large emergency departments and championed operational enhancements that boosted patient satisfaction and clinical quality.
Adding to his diverse background, Dr. Powell served in the United States Army as a Special Forces medic, where he completed multiple deployments to Iraq and the Philippines. His military background has equipped him with valuable skills in managing medical operations and training in high-pressure environments.
Dr. Powell earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from East Tennessee State University’s Quillen College of Medicine and completed his residency in emergency medicine at Carolinas Medical Center. He has also obtained an Executive Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, further strengthening his leadership and administrative capabilities.
The appointment of Dr. Powell is part of Broward Health’s ongoing investment in physician leadership and community health. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Broward Health is among the ten largest public healthcare systems in the United States. It is recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality care to the residents of Broward County and beyond, comprising four hospitals and two trauma centers. Additionally, Broward Health has a strong graduate medical education program and operates over 50 health centers across various specialties.
Their mission focuses on delivering "Exceptional Care, Extraordinary Compassion, and Everyday Excellence.” With more than 11,000 employees and physicians, Broward Health commits to providing care to all patients regardless of their financial status, boasting an operating budget exceeding $2 billion, and reporting over $523 million in charity and uncompensated care annually.
Dr. Powell’s expertise and leadership capabilities are expected to further enhance Broward Health North's commitment to quality healthcare. His multifaceted experience in both clinical and operational areas positions him well to lead in today's evolving healthcare landscape, ensuring that Broward Health continues to meet the needs of its community effectively.
For further updates on Broward Health and its services, you can visit BrowardHealth.org.
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