OKEECHOBEE — HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital announced the retirement of Chief Executive Officer Brian Melear, following a distinguished 26-year career dedicated to the hospital and the Okeechobee community.

“Brian has consistently elevated our culture, enhanced our patient experience, improved quality outcomes, and expanded our programs and services,” said Charles Gressle, president of the HCA East Florida Division. “His impact on HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital and the patients we serve has been both profound and enduring.”

Melear joined HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital in 1999 as a patient care assistant and advanced through several clinical and leadership roles, including nurse, charge nurse, director of surgical services, and chief nursing officer. He has served as chief executive officer for the past decade. His leadership approach was influenced by his firsthand experience across multiple levels of patient care.

During Melear’s tenure as CEO, the hospital earned several recognitions for clinical excellence and patient safety, including:

• Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center designation,

• American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® – Rural Stroke Gold Award,
• Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award for eight consecutive years,
• Healthgrades five-star ratings for heart attack care, diabetic emergency treatment, gallbladder removal surgery, and hip fracture treatment,
• Consecutive Leapfrog “A” Safety Grades,
• Business of the Year (2023 and 2021) by the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County.

Melear also oversaw significant facility investments, including the development of a new four-story medical office building and an emergency room expansion project scheduled to begin in June 2026.

A lifelong resident of Okeechobee, Melear grew up on his family’s dairy farm and graduated from Okeechobee High School. His strong community roots shaped a leadership style centered on local needs, compassionate care, and long-standing relationships. He has served on several community boards, including the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County, the Indian River State College Foundation, and the Lake Okeechobee Rural Health Network.

Melear is recognized for building a strong and stable leadership team, fostering a culture of belonging, and supporting sustained colleague and physician engagement. He leaves HCA Florida Raulerson Hospital positioned for continued growth, clinical excellence, and long-term success.