Ascension Saint Thomas has named Dr. Eric Greenfield as the new Chief Medical Officer for Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford, effective January 5, 2026. Dr. Greenfield will oversee clinical leadership, physician engagement and quality initiatives for the hospital and its affiliated medical staff.
Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford is known as a leading regional center for heart care, orthopedics with a focus on joint and knee replacements, and maternity services. The hospital also offers comprehensive specialty care, including a Joint Commission certified stroke center, advanced neonatal care through its Level II NICU and minimally invasive procedures.
Dr. Greenfield most recently served as Chief Medical Officer for Ascension Saint Thomas Dekalb, Highlands, River Park and Stones River. During his tenure, he helped lead the team at Ascension Saint Thomas River Park to earn a Leapfrog “A” safety rating and a five star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. He also advanced emergency department operations, resulting in more than a 25 percent reduction in length of stay at River Park.
Dr. Greenfield currently serves as Medical Director for Rutherford County EMS, where he has played a key role in improving out of hospital cardiac arrest survival rates from 8 percent to 41 percent. Previously, he served nearly five years as Regional Medical Director for Ascension Saint Thomas regional hospitals and worked as an attending emergency physician at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown, Rutherford, West and multiple regional facilities.
“Eric is an exceptional physician leader whose dedication to clinical excellence and team collaboration consistently improves patient care,” said Daphne David, President and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. “His expertise and proven track record will strengthen our commitment to safety, quality and compassionate care throughout Rutherford County.”
Dr. Greenfield earned a Master of Management in Health Care from Vanderbilt University and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Ohio University. He is married to Dr. Swati Greenfield, an emergency physician who practices at Ascension Saint Thomas and Williamson Medical Center. They have two children and enjoy traveling, mountain biking and skiing. Dr. Greenfield is also a commercial pilot and flight instructor.
