Innovation, compassion drive new Gundersen Health System CIO

Praveen Chopra saw an opportunity at Gundersen Health System to pair his passions as an executive leader.

"Gundersen has a caring, compassionate culture, but also an innovative spirit. This organization is not afraid to try new things. That's very exciting," he said.

Praveen joined Gundersen Jan. 25 as the system's new chief information officer. The new senior leader will be focused intensely on Gundersen's digital transformation efforts to benefit patients and staff.

"Praveen was the best person for CIO out of hundreds of candidates reviewed. Gundersen is fortunate to have attracted someone with such broad experience and knowledge," said Scott Rathgaber, MD, chief executive officer, Gundersen Health System. "More important, Praveen will apply this expertise with a genuine belief in our vision to enhance health and well-being in our communities and enrich every life we touch. I am very pleased he has chosen to bring his talent and passion to Gundersen."

Praveen has executive experience in championing innovative, consumer-centric outcomes across healthcare, retail, and consulting industries through creative use of information and emerging technologies. He brings extensive expertise in improving governance and inter-departmental collaboration, including electronic medical record management, telehealth expansion, digital user experience, and strategic growth planning and execution.

"I am honored to be part of such an amazing organization that is dedicated to enriching lives and a community that feels like family," Praveen shares.

Praveen most recently served as CIO for George Washington University Medical Faculty Associates, one of the largest academic medical centers in the Washington, D.C. metro area. Prior to that, Praveen was CIO and Transformative Innovative Environment Officer at Thomas Jefferson University – Jefferson Health System. He has also served as CIO and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Before a transition to healthcare, Praveen also held leadership roles at the Home Depot headquarters and at Accenture.

Praveen adds: "I'm looking forward to listening, observing and learning from Gundersen colleagues and our partners as we advance digital health, enterprise analytics, engaging user experience and clinical-grade infrastructure."