Dr. Arabinda "Ara" Pani assumed the role of chief medical officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest on Jan. 2, hospital officials announced in a news release Jan. 13.

According to the release, Pani comes to HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest from Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center in Prescott, Arizona, where he had practiced since 2009. During his tenure at the YRMC, Pani served in several hospital leadership roles, including as an emergency room physician, a board member of the hospital and the YRMC Foundation, and most recently chief of staff at the hospital from 2018-22.

Prior to joining the YRMC, Pani was at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, where he completed his emergency medicine residency from 2006-09.

"We are thrilled to have Dr. Pani joining our team," said Scott Davis, CEO of HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, in a statement. "He has an extensive background in clinical operations and patient care, coupled with solid executive health care management skills. His outstanding interpersonal skills will allow him to build solid relationships with our medical staff, hospital colleagues, patients and families."

HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest is a 423-bed acute care hospital located at 710 FM 1960 W., Houston. 281-440-1000. www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/northwest