National Park Medical Center has named Nichole Reed as Chief Nursing Officer. The role of CNO works to ensure quality care, staffing and resource management, patient advocacy, quality improvement, education and training of nursing staff, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

“We’re thrilled to officially welcome Nikki as the new Chief Nursing Officer at NPMC,” Scott Bailey, CEO said. “Nikki has been with us for a little over a year and has truly grown as a leader during that time. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to excellence make her a perfect fit for this role. We’re excited to have her on our leadership team and look forward to the continued impact she’ll make on our organization and community.”

With a distinguished career in nursing leadership and clinical excellence, Reed brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to advancing patient care and nursing practice.

Reed’s appointment builds on the strong foundation laid by previous nursing leaders, honoring their legacy while advancing new initiatives that elevate care delivery and professional development. Under her leadership, NPMC has launched several impactful programs, including the Patient Experience Committee, a Nursing Clinical Ladder and Fellowship Program, and comprehensive Nursing Strategic Plans that align with the hospital’s mission and values.

“Nursing is a legacy of compassion, innovation, and resilience,” said Reed. “I’m deeply honored to carry forward the incredible work that’s been done here and to lead our nursing teams into a future defined by shared purpose, professional growth, and exceptional care.”

Looking ahead, Reed plans to implement a Nursing Shared Governance Structure, Nursing Peer Group Committees, and New Graduate Mentor Programs—initiatives designed to empower nurses, foster collaboration, and support career development from day one.

Beyond her professional achievements, Reed is a proud member of the Hot Springs community. She and her family have fully embraced the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region. From hiking the scenic trails to building lasting relationships with neighbors and colleagues, Reed and her family have found a true home in Hot Springs.

“This community has welcomed us with open arms,” Reed shared. “We’ve fallen in love with the people, the pace, and the endless opportunities to connect with nature. It’s a privilege to serve in a place that feels like family.”

Reed’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to both clinical excellence and community connection, making her an inspiring figure at the helm of nursing at NPMC.

Reed’s appointment marks a new chapter for NPMC’s nursing leadership, reinforcing the hospital’s dedication to excellence in patient care and professional development.

The CNO oversees various aspects of patient care and nursing operations. Reed is well versed in many roles of nursing leadership. Prior to her position at NPMC, she served as the director for the Emergency Department at Bluegrass Community Hospital in Versailles, Ky. She has held several leadership positions in the Central Kentucky Market, including market director for risk management, house supervisor, Intensive Care Unit director, and CDI specialist. She began her nursing career as an ICU nurse, working nightshift at Georgetown Community Hospital in Central Kentucky.

About National Park Medical Center 

National Park Medical Center is a 163-bed full-service acute care hospital located in Hot Springs, Arkansas.  Our mission is simple: Making Communities Healthier.  We are a part of the LifePoint Health family of hospitals, which means we aim to create a place where people choose to come for healthcare, physicians want to practice, and employees want to work.  Our core values are honesty, integrity & trustworthiness, inclusion, compassion and legal/ethical compliance.  Our hospital’s Joint Commission accreditation powerfully demonstrates our commitment to meeting the highest national standards for quality and safety. 

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