Paris Regional Health announced that chief executive officer (CEO) Steve Hyde is retiring, effective June 3, 2026, following nearly a decade of service at the hospital and a more than 40-year career in healthcare.
Chief Operating Officer Chris Boukas will serve as interim CEO while a search is conducted for Hyde’s successor.
“We cannot thank Steve enough for his years of service to Paris and Lamar County,” said Bob Barrett, western division president of Lifepoint Health, of which Paris Regional is a part. “His leadership helped Paris Regional Health become the strong health system it is today, and his commitment to the health and well-being of this region has made a lasting difference. While his shoes will be difficult to fill, we look forward to working with local leaders and the board to identify the right leader to continue this important work.”
Hyde began his career as a physical therapist before advancing into operations and executive leadership roles.
He joined Paris Regional Medical Center in 2016, and under his leadership the organization expanded programs and services—including an internal medicine residency program—and strengthened clinical quality and patient safety, earning recognition from Healthgrades, U.S. News & World Report, the Leapfrog Group and others.
In 2023, the hospital became the first within Lifepoint Health to adopt the organization’s new brand, transitioning to the name Paris Regional Health to reflect its growth as a comprehensive health care organization.
That same year, the hospital earned Lifepoint’s Operations Excellence Award, and Hyde was recognized with the organization’s top leadership honor for hospital CEOs.
“Steve has done so much for our hospital and community,” said Josh Bray, chair of the Paris Regional Health Board of Trustees. “His legacy is rooted in the culture of quality he helped strengthen—one that continues to deliver consistent outcomes and support the care we provide every day. Through nearly a decade of servant leadership, he empowered our teams while always putting those we serve first. We wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Hyde has also been actively involved in the community, serving on boards such as the Lamar County Chamber of Commerce and supporting organizations including the Paris Pickleball Association, St. Jospeh’s Community Foundation and the Graduate Medical Education program at Paris Regional Health.
His involvement has strengthened connections and contributed to the continued growth of our community.
