CEO highlights safety, growth, and medical training as hospital expands services for Walker County
A hospital on the rise
HUNTSVILLE, Texas — Huntsville Memorial Hospital (HMH) is entering a new era of stability and growth under the leadership of CEO Patrick Shannon. Once facing financial and quality challenges, the hospital has made steady progress in safety, service expansion, and community partnerships — all with the goal of meeting the needs of a growing Walker County.
Shannon, who has served as CEO for more than four years, said the turnaround has been the result of teamwork across the hospital. “Our community deserves excellent care,” he said. “Every staff member and every physician here has a role in making that possible.”
Commitment to patient safety
One of the hospital’s most important achievements has been its improvement in patient safety. Several years ago, HMH’s Leapfrog safety grade was rated low, but since then the hospital has climbed steadily to an “A.” That progress reflects a renewed focus on preventing infections, reducing complications, and ensuring that every patient receives care in a safe environment.
Chief Nursing Officer Jose Guerra credited the dedication of frontline staff. “Our nurses and clinicians have worked hard to keep patients safe, and the results show,” Guerra said. “We’ve been recognized nationally for having zero central line-associated bloodstream infections and zero catheter-associated urinary tract infections during key reporting periods.”
National recognition in stroke care
In addition to its safety scores, HMH has been recognized by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association. The hospital earned Gold Plus and Silver Rural Hospital awards for excellence in stroke care, underscoring its ability to provide timely and effective treatment that leads to better outcomes for patients.
“We are proud of the quality of care our teams provide,” Guerra said. “When people in Walker County face a stroke, they can be confident that Huntsville Memorial is ready.”
Preparing for community growth
Walker County’s population is expected to nearly double in the next decade, bringing new demand for local healthcare. HMH has responded by expanding specialty services and working with physicians to bring more care options closer to home.
“Every month, we’re adding services that keep patients here instead of transferring them elsewhere,” Shannon said. “That’s better for patients and families, and it keeps healthcare local.”
While a recent bond proposal for a new hospital facility did not pass, Shannon views the close margin as a sign of community engagement. “The conversation isn’t over,” he said. “The support we’ve seen tells us that people value having high-quality care right here in Huntsville.”
Training the next generation of doctors
Another area of growth is education. HMH has partnered with Sam Houston State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine to train medical students and residents. The hospital’s Family Medicine Residency Program now has 12 residents in training, with its first graduating class set for 2025. Two sports medicine fellows will also begin this fall.
“These programs are vital for the future of healthcare in Walker County,” Shannon said. “When students train here, they often choose to practice here — and that strengthens care for years to come.”
Leadership rooted in service
Shannon’s leadership style is shaped by 35 years in the Army National Guard and Army Reserves, including a deployment to Iraq. He said that experience instilled values that guide his work at HMH today.
“Military service taught me discipline, accountability, and servant leadership,” Shannon said. “My job is to make sure our leaders and staff have what they need to succeed — because when they succeed, the hospital succeeds.”
Looking ahead with optimism
Even as HMH celebrates awards and recognitions, Shannon emphasizes that the focus remains on patients. “The real success is when people in our community can get the care they need, close to home, in a safe and supportive environment,” he said.
Guerra added that the hospital’s achievements are the result of everyone working toward the same goal. “From physicians to nurses to support staff, everyone here is committed to providing the best care for Huntsville and Walker County,” he said.
About Huntsville Memorial Hospital
Huntsville Memorial Hospital (HMH) has served Walker County and the surrounding communities for more than 90 years, providing a full range of medical services including emergency care, surgery, cardiology, rehabilitation, and women’s health. The hospital continues to focus on patient safety, quality care, and expanding specialty services while also training the next generation of physicians through partnerships with Sam Houston State University. HMH is committed to keeping healthcare local and accessible, ensuring families receive care close to home. For more information about services, physicians, and community updates, visit their website at www.huntsvillememorial.com.