Dignity Health Mercy Hospitals Bakersfield Welcomes New President & CEO Simon Ratliff

Bakersfield, CA – Dignity Health is proud to announce that Simon Ratliff has been selected as the new President and CEO of Bakersfield’s Mercy Hospitals. Ratliff succeeds BJ Predum who recently was appointed as the President of the Central Valley market in Dignity Health’s California region. 

With extensive experience leading healthcare facilities across the United States, Ratliff brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. Most recently, Ratliff served as the CEO and President of Wilkes Barre General Hospital in Northeastern Pennsylvania, where he successfully oversaw a medical staff of over 400 physicians representing more than 60 medical and surgical specialties. His leadership has consistently resulted in improved healthcare delivery and outcomes, making him an exceptional addition to the Mercy Hospitals team. 

"My role is to serve and support the incredible employees and providers dedicated to caring for our community," said Ratliff. "If we put our patients first and work together, we can accomplish great things. Most importantly, we can improve the health and quality of life for the people we serve." 

Ratliff's vision for Mercy Hospitals is focused on a purpose-driven strategy that emphasizes equitable care for the communities in Kern County."Simon’s extensive experience and commitment to community health make him an ideal leader for Mercy Hospitals," said BJ Predum, Central Valley Market President. "We are excited to welcome him to the Dignity Health family and look forward to his contributions to enhancing the health and well-being of our community." 

Ratliff holds a Master's degree in Business Administration and has a proven track record in healthcare management, operational excellence, and strategic growth. His leadership style emphasizes transparency, teamwork, and community engagement. 

Mercy Hospitals in Bakersfield is dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services and is confident that Ratliff will drive the organization forward in its mission to deliver compassionate care to all. 

###

About Dignity Health 
Dignity Health is a multi-state nonprofit network of 10,000 physicians, more than 60,000 employees, 41 acute care hospitals, and 400-plus care-centers, including community hospitals, urgent care, surgery and imaging centers, home health, and primary care clinics in Arizona, California, and Nevada. Dignity Health is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality, and affordable patient-centered care with special attention to the poor and underserved. Dignity Health is a part of CommonSpirit Health, a nonprofit health system committed to advancing health for all people and dedicated to serving the common good. For more information, please visit our website at www.DignityHealth.org.