Ascension Saint Thomas is pleased to announce the appointment of Isaac Heller as chief administrative officer at Ascension Saint Thomas Dekalb Hospital in Smithville and Stones River Hospital in Woodbury.
Heller brings operational expertise and strategic vision to the role, most recently serving as assistant chief executive officer at Lower Keys Medical Center in Key West, Florida. In this position, he oversaw operations for pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, plant operations, security, environmental services and nutrition services. He also managed capital and lease budgets. His leadership played a key role in successful accreditation survey outcomes, expanding patient access through innovative mobile imaging solutions, and reducing hospital transfer rates by fostering physician collaboration and enhancing infrastructure.
Previously, Heller held key administrative positions at HCA Florida Blake Hospital, where he led engagement and cost-saving initiatives across laboratory, nutrition and environmental services departments.
“We are thrilled to welcome Isaac to Ascension Saint Thomas Dekalb and Stones River hospitals,” said Neal Kelley, regional hospital president at Ascension Saint Thomas. “His experience in healthcare administration and his dedication to improving patient care will advance our mission to provide compassionate, personalized care to the communities we serve.”
A double graduate of the University of Florida, Heller holds a Master of Health Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations. His work has also been published in peer-reviewed journals focused on palliative care awareness and healthcare cost analysis.
Heller is passionate about cultivating strong relationships and has shared his enthusiasm for building culture, partnering with physicians, and supporting staff in the delivery of exceptional care. His leadership will play a critical role in continuing to provide high-quality, compassionate care at DeKalb and Stones River.
"It is an honor to be part of the outstanding work Ascension Saint Thomas is advancing in both Smithville and Woodbury,” said Heller. “I am grateful for the opportunity to join the Smithville community and to work alongside the dedicated and highly skilled physicians, nurses and staff at DeKalb and Stones River hospitals."
Ascension Saint Thomas remains dedicated to expanding access to high-quality, community-based care across Middle Tennessee. By continuing to invest in local hospitals such as Dekalb and Stones River, the health system is strengthening its commitment to serve individuals and communities with care that is close to home. Heller steps into this pivotal role at a time of purposeful growth and will play an integral part in advancing this mission.
