Ms. Pool brings more than 25 years of healthcare experience to her role as CEO of Highland Medical Center. She previously led Lakeland Community Hospital in Haleyville, Ala. from the brink of closure to long-term sustainability, underscoring her strength in rural hospital turnarounds. At Highlands, she has maintained Joint Commission accreditation and achieved zero hospital-acquired infections in 2023. Ms. Pool holds degrees in both nursing and healthcare management, combining clinical insight with strategic leadership. Her responsibilities span operations, financial performance and care quality, with a focus on aligning clinical priorities with business outcomes. She also serves on the Chamber of Commerce and the board of respiratory therapy, reinforcing her investment in regional health and economic development.
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Becker's Recognition
Ashley Poolhas been named a Becker's honoree on the lists below.
2025 Winner

Executives
Rural Hospital CEOs to Know
Rural hospitals allow patients from remote areas to receive care without traveling long distances or sacrificing quality. The CEOs leading these necessary institutions take on a variety of responsibilities to ensure rural communities have access to top-tier healthcare.
CEORural & Critical Access
