UCHealth has appointed Lonnie Cramer as the new president and CEO of UCHealth Memorial Hospital, Pikes Peak Regional Hospital, Grandview Hospital, and several clinics in the Colorado Springs region, succeeding Joel Yuhas.
In a statement, Elizabeth B. Concordia, president and CEO of UCHealth, expressed confidence in Cramer’s ability to lead, citing his extensive healthcare experience and dedication to community involvement, exceptional patient care, and service to veterans and active-duty service members.
Cramer brings over three decades of healthcare operations expertise to his new role, having previously served as president of UCHealth’s Broomfield Hospital, Longs Peak Hospital, and various outpatient care facilities. Before joining UCHealth in 2019, he held the position of chief operating officer at Penrose St. Francis Health Services in Colorado Springs.
Expressing enthusiasm for his new position, Cramer emphasized his commitment to continuing UCHealth’s legacy of excellence in patient care and building upon the progress made since Memorial Hospital became part of UCHealth. Additionally, he expressed excitement about returning to Colorado Springs, where he has previously resided, and looks forward to fostering relationships within the community.
Cramer’s healthcare career spans various leadership roles, including serving as chief operating officer of MDiagnostics Inc. in Louisiana and as director of diagnostic imaging services at Fort Walton Beach Medical Center in Florida. His military background, having served in the U.S. Army as a radiology noncommissioned officer, underscores his dedication to serving veterans and active-duty service members.
With a master’s degree in clinical practice management and a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, Cramer is well-equipped to lead UCHealth’s operations in El Paso and Teller counties. He is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to expand services and promote community health initiatives.
Having served as interim CEO of Memorial Hospital for the past two months, Cramer assumes the permanent role, succeeding Joel Yuhas, who led the hospital for six years before transitioning to a position with UPMC in Pennsylvania. Under Yuhas’ leadership, UCHealth Memorial Central achieved significant milestones, including designation as a Level I Trauma Center and a Comprehensive Stroke Center, while enhancing care options for patients.