MLH Associates and Community Program Honored by Memphis Business Journal

The Memphis Business Journal has recognized two Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Associates and a community program as 2026 Health Care Heroes.

President of Methodist Olive Branch Hospital David Baytos, Senior Director of Clinical Education Dr. Tiffany Duncan and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program are three of the 26 honorees announced by the journal.

The awards, which aim to recognize "individuals, companies and organizations for their contributions to improving health care in Memphis and the Mid-South," have taken place each year since 1999.

Baytos has served the community in a number of roles during his 25-year tenure with MLH, most notably as the only president Methodist Olive Branch Hospital has ever had since opening its doors in August 2013.

His leadership has directly contributed to clinical and operational achievements. Methodist Olive Branch Hospital has earned a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Quality Rating, placing it among the top-performing hospitals nationally, and has been recognized among the top 10% of hospitals for patient safety by Healthgrades.

After spending the early part of her career as a registered nurse, Dr. Duncan answered the call to help develop the clinicians who care for patients.

With more than 20 years of service in healthcare, Dr. Duncan is responsible for leading the development of the healthcare workforce for MLH, partnering with leaders, clinicians and academic institutions to prepare caregivers so that they may provide exceptional patient care.

Of the 26 honorees named this year, only two programs are being recognized, marking a special achievement for the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program.

The CDSMP is a community outreach initiative from MLH that identifies an urgent health need, removes barriers to care, and empowers underserved populations with the tools they need to live healthier lives. Developed in response to persistent community health challenges and offered at no cost to participants, CDSMP has become a critical resource for adults managing chronic illness across Memphis.

Chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer often contribute to poorer health outcomes, emergency room utilization, and reduced quality of life. CDSMP directly addresses these issues through accessible, evidence-based education and practical support.

By improving access to practical resources, reducing avoidable health crises, strengthening caregiver confidence, and empowering individuals to take control of chronic illness, CDSMP is transforming lives across the Mid-South.

Through leadership, innovation, compassion and an unwavering commitment to improving every life they touch, these honorees reflect the purpose that drives our work every day at MLH.

We celebrate, applaud and thank our 2026 Health Care Heroes.

All 26 honorees, including the three honorees from MLH, will be profiled in the Memphis Business Journal's Aug. 14 edition and recognized at the 2026 Health Care Heroes Awards Aug. 20 at the Memphis Botanic Garden.