G. Owen Bailey, MSHA, FACHE, chief executive officer and senior associate vice president for Medical Affairs of USA Health, the health system for the University of South Alabama, has been awarded the Alabama Hospital Association’s highest honor—the Gold Medal of Excellence. The recognition was presented during the Association’s Annual Meeting on June 13, 2025.
The Gold Medal of Excellence is the most prestigious award given by the Alabama Hospital Association, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in healthcare both locally and statewide. The award is not presented annually, but rather only when an individual’s contributions merit the Association’s highest level of recognition.
“Owen Bailey embodies the very best of healthcare leadership in Alabama,” said Donald E. Williamson, MD, president and CEO of the Alabama Hospital Association. “Through decades of service, he has led with humility, conviction, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those he serves. His leadership has helped shape a stronger healthcare landscape across our state, and it is a privilege to recognize him with this honor.”
Bailey, who has spent 38 years in healthcare administration, has served as CEO of USA Health since 2016. Under his leadership, the academic health system has undergone a period of transformative growth, marked by significant expansions in care delivery sites across Alabama and Mississippi. He has championed innovation and access to care, resulting in enhanced services for both urban and rural communities.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bailey has been an active leader at the state and national levels. A fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, he has served on numerous boards, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, the Business Council of Alabama—where he currently chairs the Health Committee—the University of Mobile and the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce. He is also a past chairman of the Alabama Hospital Association, the Southwest Council of AlaHA, the Mobile Area Education Foundation and the Southwest Alabama Workforce Development Council.
Bailey’s dedication to the healthcare field has earned him widespread recognition, including Modern Healthcare’s Up and Comer Award, ACHE’s Young Healthcare Executive of the Year and Regent’s Award, the American Hospital Association’s Grassroots Champion Award, AlaHA’s Distinguished Service Award, and inclusion in Becker’s Academic Medical Center CEOs to Know list.
“Perhaps most importantly, Bailey is celebrated for his unwavering integrity, humility, and compassion—qualities that have defined his career and inspired those around him,” AlaHA shared.
“This award is not given lightly,” said Williamson. “It reflects not only a record of exceptional service, but also the lasting influence of a leader who has shaped the future of healthcare in Alabama. We are proud to honor Owen Bailey for his lifelong commitment to advancing health and transforming lives.”
