LCMC Health announced the promotion of John R. Nickens IV to the new role of president of hospital services and chief of pediatrics for the hospital system. Nickens moves into this role after serving as the head of LCMC Health maternal and child health services and as president and CEO of Children’s Hospital New Orleans during a five-year period of pivotal growth and transformation.
In his new role, Nickens will have executive oversight and responsibility for all hospital operations across the now nine-hospital LCMC Health system to ensure business and growth goals are brought to life in a connected and strategic way. Nickens will bring expertise and coordination to support continued success and transformation of the growing LCMC Health system, which welcomed the three Tulane University hospitals in January.
“I am honored to contribute my passion and knowledge to support the growth and continued success of LCMC Health, bringing with me all that we have accomplished at Children’s,” said Nickens. “I am humbled and excited to work alongside Greg Feirn, the LCMC Health leadership team, and all of our hospitals to deliver the best possible healthcare for our communities and to impact the health and wellbeing of people in all stages of life.”
Nickens joined Children’s Hospital New Orleans five years ago, and since has transformed its campus, its programs, and its presence across the region. During his tenure at Children’s, Nickens formed new statewide affiliations, and earned the confidence as a trusted partner to both LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University School of Medicine. With Nickens leading the charge, Children’s Hospital New Orleans earned first-time US News & World Report ranking among the nation’s best children's hospitals, Magnet Recognition Program designation for nursing excellence, and expanded programs to allow the hospital to care for significantly more children across every facet of the organization.
“What John has accomplished in five years for the children and families of our region is truly remarkable,” said Greg Feirn, CEO, LCMC Health. “I am excited for John to begin a new chapter at LCMC Health where he will bring that same passion, vision, and leadership to all of our hospitals, along with his continuous focus and dedication to excellence.”
In the role of chief of pediatrics for LCMC Health, Nickens will lead strategy and provide executive oversight for pediatric affiliations across Louisiana, including the recent affiliation with Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health whose president will report directly to Nickens. He will also continue to work closely with the Children's Hospital New Orleans team, working alongside Lou Fragoso, new president and CEO for Children’s Hospital New Orleans, to improve the health and wellbeing of kids and families. Nickens will continue to represent Children’s Hospital New Orleans in his role as chief, and with the Children’s Hospital Association.
Nickens began his career at Texas Children’s Hospital in 1990 with management positions in revenue cycle and clinical operations. He went on to hold various administrative positions at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and then returned to Texas Children’s where he ultimately held the position of executive vice president.