Lance Ames

PANEL | The State of Healthcare: Industry Leader’s Perspectives | 1:45–3:15 PM

Lance Ames serves as the CEO of South Texas Health System Edinburg and South Texas Health System Children’s where he oversees hospital operations for 255 acute inpatient beds and over 900 dedicated staff members. During his tenure as CEO, Lance has expanded multiple service lines, driven a focus on quality care, and finalized a five-story, $105 million, new patient tower project in September 2022 with an expanded ER, state-of-the-art ICU, advanced imaging center, expanded adult medical/surgical/telemetry beds, and an expanded inpatient rehabilitation unit. 

Lance started his career with South Texas Health System 10 years ago as part of the executive leadership development program. He has taken on multiple roles within the health system including Associate Administrator at South Texas Health System McAllen, Interim CEO at South Texas Health System Heart, System Administrator for Ambulatory Services and Freestanding ERs, and Chief Operating Officer at South Texas Health System Edinburg and Children’s prior to becoming CEO.

Lance completed his bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in business management at Brigham Young University and went on to complete a master’s degree in Health Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. He has a passion for mentoring future healthcare leaders and dedicating time to serve the community.

During the past year, Lance served as the  Incoming Chairman of the Board for the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce where he has served as an active member for the past six years. He has also dedicated time serving the community as a youth basketball coach and youth group leader at church. Lance, his wife Jen, and their four kids love exploring the beautiful RGV and are honored to be a part of this growing community.