Board selects highly qualified ARMC chief operating officer as new hospital CEO

Andrew Goldfrach, a respected health-care industry expert with extensive experience in strategic planning, financial management and operational efficiencies who has served as chief operating officer at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) for more than four years, has been appointed by the Board of Supervisors to serve as ARMC chief executive officer effective June 1.

“I am honored to have this opportunity to lead the dedicated team at ARMC,” said Goldfrach. “Together, we are committed to advancing health care excellence and improving outcomes for our patients and community.”

Since joining ARMC in March 2020, Goldfrach has spearheaded transformative initiatives that have elevated the hospital’s status and expanded its service offerings. Under his leadership, ARMC — a county-owned and -operated 456-bed university-affiliated teaching hospital in Colton — achieved accreditation as a comprehensive stroke center, established a new neuroscience critical care service, and developed innovative programs in cardiothoracic surgery and minimally invasive robotic surgery.

“Andrew brings a unique blend of strategic vision and operational expertise,” said San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “His leadership has been instrumental in driving growth, enhancing patient care, and strengthening our community partnerships.”

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Goldfrach played a pivotal role in directing the county’s response efforts, serving as the county’s interim Public Health director. His initiatives earned multiple innovation awards from the National Association of Counties.

Prior to his role at ARMC, Goldfrach served as the CEO of University Hospitals Avon Rehabilitation Hospital in Ohio, where he achieved positive quality outcomes and financial performance. His initiatives resulted in significant growth in admissions, improved patient satisfaction scores, and enhanced clinical protocols focused on high reliability care. Andrew is also a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE).

“Andrew’s appointment is a testament to his proven leadership and commitment to delivering high-quality care,” said Vice Chairman and First District Supervisor Col. Paul Cook (Ret.). “We look forward to his continued contributions to ARMC and the residents of San Bernardino County.”

Second District Supervisor Jesse Armendarez added, “His dedication to improving patient outcomes and fostering innovation aligns with our vision for health care in our community.”

Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman stated, “We are confident that Andrew’s leadership will continue to elevate ARMC’s reputation as a premier healthcare institution.”

“We are excited to see Andrew take on the role of CEO,” said Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., whose district includes the ARMC campus in Colton. “We are looking forward to seeing what he accomplishes for the community in this new role.”

Goldfrach holds a master’s in health administration from Washington University School of Medicine and is board-certified in healthcare management by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). As part of his new role, Goldfrach will also join the Board of Directors for the California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (CAPH) as well as the Board of Trustees for the California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM).

The current long-time hospital director, William Gilbert, has announced plans to retire this month after a nearly 40-year career in healthcare.

ARMC is licensed by the State of California Department of Public Health, operated by San Bernardino County, and governed by the Board of Supervisors. It is ARMC’s mission, in an environment of learning and innovation, to serve our diverse community with high-quality, compassionate care.

The hospital, located on a 70-acre campus in Colton, operates the Edward G. Hirschman Burn Center, a level I trauma center, a comprehensive stroke center, a behavioral health center, and five primary care centers. ARMC also provides more than 40 outpatient specialty care services.

ARMC is helping to achieve the Countywide Vision by addressing the community’s wellness and educational needs. ARMC is the primary teaching hospital for CUSM. The University welcomed its first class of students in 2018. For more information on CUSM, visit https://cusm.edu/. For more information about ARMC, visit https://www.arrowheadregional.org. You can also watch this video to learn more about ARMC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mbqv6Ef7qfg

About San Bernardino County: San Bernardino County is a diverse public service organization serving America’s largest county that for two consecutive years has led the nation in awards for innovation, efficiency, and outstanding public service. We are governed by an elected Board of Supervisors and dedicated to creating a community where nearly 2.2 million residents can prosper and achieve well-being in fulfillment of the Countywide Vision. It is comprised of 42 departments and agencies, which are staffed by more than 23,000 public service professionals who provide a wide range of vital services in the areas of public safety, health care, social services, economic and community development and revitalization, fiscal services, infrastructure, recreation and culture, and internal support. For more information, visit sbcounty.gov.