Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer Matt Fry announced on Tuesday a key change to the Freeman leadership team, with Dr. Lee Harwell named Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Freeman Health System.

Dr. Harwell returned to Freeman in August to serve as Interim CMO, bringing with him more than 34 years of clinical and leadership experience. He was a member of the Freeman medical staff from 1998 to 2004, and again from 2005 to 2015, specializing in internal medicine.

“His steady guidance, deep understanding of healthcare operations, and commitment to excellence have already made a meaningful impact across our organization,” Fry said.

A key position within the health system, the CMO oversees clinical operations to ensure high-quality patient care as well as medical staff performance, with duties ranging from developing and implementing clinical policies to ensuring compliance with regulations.

“As we move forward, Dr. Harwell will continue to play a vital role in advancing our mission, supporting our providers, and ensuring the highest standards of care for the communities we serve,” Fry said.

Dr. Harwell earned his medical degree from the University of Missouri. He began his residency training in internal medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and completed his final year at MU. He launched his medical career in private practice, serving patients in Columbia, Missouri, and Ocean Springs, Mississippi, before joining Freeman Health System for the first time in 1998.

During his tenure, Dr. Harwell has held several key leadership roles, including Chief Medical Information Office/Medical Director, Director of Hospitalist Group, and Chair of the Division of Internal Medicine.