Optim Health System has announced the appointment of James Barnes, BSN, RN, as Regional Surgery Center Administrator for Optim Surgery Center in Savannah, Ga. In this role, Barnes will oversee daily operations, clinical performance, and administrative functions.

Barnes returns to Optim with more than a decade of clinical and operational experience in surgical services.

 “It feels like coming home,” Barnes said. “My leadership will focus on operational excellence, patient safety, and continued growth in surgical services and staff development. As a Savannah native, it means a great deal to serve the community where I grew up.”

Barnes earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Armstrong State University and holds Perioperative Nurse Certification (CNOR). His career includes roles as a Level 1 Trauma Nurse at Memorial Health University Medical Center, Pain Management Supervisor at Optim, and most recently, work in DaVinci robotic surgical systems and OR nursing at Memorial. Before entering healthcare, he spent seven years in operational leadership with Cintas.

“James brings a unique combination of clinical expertise and operational leadership that will benefit Optim Surgery Center,” said Brian Evans, System Chief Operating Officer of Optim Health System. “His familiarity with our organization and proven commitment to surgical excellence make him a strong leader to guide these centers forward.”