Dr. Barnett has served as president and CEO of McKenzie Health System since 2008, leading strategy, operations and financial sustainability for a rural health system in Michigan’s Thumb region. Drawing on clinical experience in respiratory care, nursing and anesthesia, he has expanded local access to family and surgical medicine to reduce unnecessary transfers for rural patients. He is known for advancing collaborative partnerships across the region, strengthening care coordination and shared sustainability among rural providers. Under his leadership, McKenzie Health System has maintained and grown essential service lines while navigating workforce and reimbursement pressures. Dr. Barnett emphasizes daily engagement with physicians, staff and community stakeholders to keep the organization mission-driven and patient-centered. His tenure has positioned the system as a stable, collaborative model for rural healthcare delivery.
