Health Care 2024: MICHAEL J. LUTES

Lutes started as Bon Secours Mercy Health’s Richmond market leader in 2022, not long after The New York Times exposed how the Ohio-based health system made as much as $100 million annually from Richmond Community Hospital through a federal medication discount program. While legal, the 340B overwhelmingly benefited Bon Secours hospitals in wealthier parts of the Richmond region compared to Richmond Community.

In January 2023, Bon Secours launched a three-year plan designed to improve the health and well-being of the East End neighborhood served by Richmond Community Hospital, including a medical office building, a $4.5 million MRI suite and a new behavioral health program.

In February, Lutes and other Bon Secours officials met with the Council of African American CEOs to discuss ways to partner with local minority-owned businesses. Also, Bon Secours announced in February it plans to open a sports medicine, primary and physical therapy facility on Richmond’s West Broad Street, a relocation from the former Washington Commanders’ training center leased by the health system on Richmond’s Leigh Street.

Before joining Bon Secours, Lutes served in leadership roles for Atrium Health in North Carolina.