Heart Hospital of Austin announces new chief nursing officer

Austin, Texas — Heart Hospital of Austin has named Kim Barker, M.S.H.A, B.S.N, B.S, C.E.N, as its new chief nursing officer. She succeeds Charles McCoy, who recently transitioned to St. David’s Medical Center as chief nursing officer. Barker assumed her new position on July 21.

Barker most recently served as assistant chief nursing officer at St. David’s South Austin Medical Center since 2022. In the role, she oversaw multiple departments, including cardiology, cardiopulmonary, emergency services and the intensive care unit. She also led, designed and implemented a nurse extern program, including curriculum development, competency assessments and structured shadowing experiences.

“With more than two decades of experience, Kim has a deep understanding of cardiovascular excellence and a steadfast commitment to compassionate care,” Brett Matens, chief executive officer of Heart Hospital of Austin, said. “Nurses are the heartbeat of our hospital — delivering care, support and strength — to every patient every day. We are excited to welcome Kim to the Heart Hospital of Austin family, where she will continue to advance the high-quality care our patients have come to expect.”

Prior to her role at St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, Barker served as the emergency service line director at St. David’s North Austin Medical Center for six years, beginning in 2016. Barker began her career with St. David’s HealthCare as a patient care technician at St. David’s South Austin Medical Center in 2006. She took on a variety of roles with increased responsibility over the next decade.

Barker earned a master’s degree in healthcare administration/management from Grand Canyon University, and she is a graduate of the Galen College of Nursing. Barker is also a member of the Emergency Nurses Association.