Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan Announces Patrick Avila as New President

Via Christi has named Patrick Avila, FACHE, MPT, as the new President of Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. He will start in his new leadership role on April 20, 2026, until which time Drew Talbott will continue to serve as Interim President.

Avila joins Via Christi with more than 25 years of progressive healthcare leadership experience, including service as CEO of community and regional hospitals across the Midwest. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to translate system strategy into local success, including strengthening financial performance, expanding access to care, and elevating engagement among physicians and associates.

"In welcoming Patrick Avila as Hospital President, Via Christi affirms its commitment to serving Manhattan with excellence, compassion and a renewed focus on culture, connection and long-term strength," Katie Seay, Board Chair of Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan. "His experience demonstrates disciplined operational growth, and his heart for community and mission aligns with the identity of Via Christi."

Most recently, Avila has served in executive roles where he oversaw operational, financial and clinical performance while deepening community partnerships. He has a proven track record of guiding cultural transformation efforts resulting in measurable improvements in engagement. His history of leading executive teams, growing service lines and strengthening physician engagement reinforces confidence in his leadership for the Manhattan community.

Avila is also a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. He has longstanding ties to Manhattan, having earned his Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences from Kansas State University.