Jim Feen: Visionary CIO Driving Digital Transformation at Southcoast Health Despite Challenges
A powerful leader balancing innovation, patient care, and the struggles of modern healthcare technology
Introduction
Jim Feen has emerged as one of the most influential leaders in healthcare technology, recognized for his role as Senior Vice President and Chief Digital & Information Officer at Southcoast Health. His career highlights both the positive impact of digital innovation in patient care and the demanding challenges of integrating complex systems in a dynamic healthcare environment. With a clear vision for improving efficiency, security, and accessibility, Feen has become a strong example of leadership that blends technical expertise with a deep commitment to patient outcomes.
This article provides a complete overview of Jim Feen’s professional journey, covering his background, education, leadership philosophy, career milestones, compensation, and vision for the future. It also explores how his leadership has transformed Southcoast Health while acknowledging the hurdles he has faced in implementing cutting-edge technology across such a large healthcare network.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James (Jim) Feen |
| Current Role | Senior Vice President & Chief Digital & Information Officer, Southcoast Health |
| Nationality | American |
| Residence | Rochester, Massachusetts |
| Family | Married to Amy; father of three children |
| Education | Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems; advanced studies in IT strategy (industry reports) |
| Known For | Digital health transformation, Epic EMR implementation, DevOps leadership |
| Salary | Approx. $617,000 (FY 2022, public nonprofit filings) |
| Source of Income | Executive leadership role at Southcoast Health |
| Career Start | Began as an emergency department unit coordinator; later moved into healthcare IT at MEDITECH |
Early Life and Education
Jim Feen’s journey into healthcare technology began with firsthand exposure to clinical environments. He started his career working as a unit coordinator in an emergency department. This early experience gave him insight into the pressing needs of both patients and healthcare staff, inspiring his belief that technology could play a pivotal role in improving care delivery.
For his academic path, Feen pursued a degree in Information Systems and later expanded his expertise with advanced studies in IT strategy and analytics. These educational foundations allowed him to combine technical knowledge with managerial insight, shaping him into a leader prepared for the challenges of healthcare’s digital future.
Career Beginnings and Growth
Jim Feen’s professional career began on the vendor side of healthcare IT at MEDITECH, where he worked for nearly a decade. As a Senior Supervisor, he gained hands-on experience in implementing clinical systems and supporting hospital workflows. This role helped him master the complexities of system deployment and instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of reliability and integration in clinical technology.
In 2008, Feen joined Southcoast Health, marking the beginning of a career that would see him rise to executive leadership. By 2012, he was appointed Director of Applications and Systems Development, responsible for guiding IT strategies and aligning them with Southcoast’s mission of patient-centered care.
Rise to CIO and Executive Leadership
Over the years, Jim Feen advanced through the ranks to become Chief Information Officer and later Senior Vice President and Chief Digital & Information Officer. In these roles, he has overseen the health system’s digital transformation, cybersecurity, enterprise applications, and data governance.
One of his most significant accomplishments was the consolidation of multiple electronic health record systems into Epic, a unified EMR that now connects Southcoast Health’s 450 providers across 55 sites. This massive project not only streamlined operations but also improved patient safety and data accuracy. Despite the challenges of cost, integration, and user adaptation, Feen successfully navigated the project to completion.
Innovation and Digital Transformation
Under Feen’s leadership, Southcoast Health has embraced digital tools that go far beyond basic record-keeping. He introduced DevOps practices into the organization, fostering collaboration between IT teams and clinicians to ensure faster, more reliable system deployments.
He also spearheaded the creation of an in-house application development team. This group has produced dozens of workflow-specific apps, such as tools for transferring patients from emergency departments to operating rooms. These innovations have reduced delays, optimized workflows, and directly improved patient experiences.
Compensation and Financial Overview
As a nonprofit executive, Jim Feen’s compensation is publicly reported. In 2022, filings indicated his salary was approximately $617,574, with an additional $128,879 in related compensation. In 2021, his salary was around $553,772, highlighting his consistent recognition as one of the key leaders within the organization.
Feen’s primary source of income is his leadership role at Southcoast Health. There is no evidence of private business ventures or outside companies linked to him, which underscores his focus on serving healthcare through his professional expertise.
Leadership Style and Philosophy
Feen’s leadership is characterized by a balance of technical precision and human understanding. He believes in building trust with stakeholders and empowering staff by dissolving data silos and promoting transparency. His focus on inclusive leadership ensures that both clinicians and IT professionals feel invested in the success of new technologies.
While his innovative vision has earned Southcoast recognition—including CHIME’s Digital Excellence Awards—he has also faced challenges in implementing new systems. Large-scale IT rollouts often encounter resistance, and cybersecurity threats continue to test the resilience of health networks. Nevertheless, Feen’s steady approach has helped Southcoast remain a regional leader in digital healthcare.
Legacy and Impact
Jim Feen’s legacy is closely tied to his ability to modernize healthcare while preserving its human core. His projects have not only transformed technology at Southcoast but also set new standards for integrating digital tools in patient care. Through his focus on innovation, security, and collaboration, he has positioned Southcoast as a role model for other regional healthcare systems.
Looking ahead, Feen’s influence will likely continue to grow as he champions artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and virtual care. These initiatives promise to further enhance the delivery of healthcare in southeastern Massachusetts and beyond.
Conclusion
Jim Feen’s career is a story of determination, leadership, and innovation. From his humble beginnings in an emergency department to his executive role at Southcoast Health, he has consistently demonstrated how technology can reshape healthcare for the better. His work highlights both the promise and the challenges of digital transformation in a complex industry.
By combining technical expertise, financial stewardship, and a vision for patient-centered care, Jim Feen has built a reputation as a leader who not only drives progress but also inspires confidence in the future of healthcare delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jim Feen?
Jim Feen is the Senior Vice President and Chief Digital & Information Officer at Southcoast Health, overseeing digital transformation and IT strategy.
What is Jim Feen’s salary?
In 2022, his reported salary was about $617,000, with additional compensation as part of his nonprofit executive role.
What are Jim Feen’s main achievements?
He led Southcoast Health’s adoption of the Epic EMR system, established an in-house app development team, expanded telehealth during COVID-19, and strengthened cybersecurity.
Where does Jim Feen live?
He resides in Rochester, Massachusetts, with his wife Amy and their three children.
What is Jim Feen’s legacy?
His legacy lies in transforming healthcare through digital innovation, DevOps culture, and a strong commitment to patient-focused outcomes.
