Morgan Blanton, DO, named chief medical officer and vice president at Baptist Health Richmond
Richmond, KY (June 25, 2026) – Morgan Blanton, DO, has been named vice president and chief medical officer at Baptist Health Richmond. A Kentucky native, Dr. Blanton originally joined the hospital in 2019 as a hospitalist and has served as the medical director since 2022.
“Dr. Blanton has earned the confidence of her peers and has demonstrated a strong collaborative approach in all she does,” said Greg D. Gerard, president of Baptist Health Richmond. “A true patient-centered champion, Dr. Blanton genuinely cares for her patients and is all-in on our mission.”
“Becoming chief medical officer at Baptist Health Richmond is a privilege I don’t take lightly – especially following Dr. Gregonis who set a standard of leadership that is rooted in Baptist Health’s mission,” said Morgan Blanton, DO, Baptist Health Richmond. “As I step into this role, I am committed to making sure every decision we make as an organization continues to live up to it – coordinating care, strengthening our community and treating every patient as someone worthy of our very best.”
Dr. Blanton is stepping into the position as Erica Gregonis, MD, pulmonologist, is starting a new professional opportunity.
“I want to personally congratulate Dr. Blanton on being named the new chief medical officer at Baptist Health Richmond,” said Dr. Gregonis. “She has been a trusted colleague and leader, and I’ve had the privilege of working alongside her to see firsthand her dedication to our patients, physicians, and the hospital. I truly believe she is the right person to lead in this next chapter, and I have complete confidence in her ability to build on the great work already underway.”
Dr. Gregonis also shared how it has been a privilege to serve as the chief medical officer and is especially grateful to know that the hospital will have someone so dedicated to the mission and community with Dr. Blanton.
Dr. Blanton will continue to serve as a hospitalist until she transitions into the chief medical officer position in September.