Norton Children’s Hospital names new leader

Author: Norton Healthcare

Published: January 23, 2024

Norton Healthcare has named Diane Scardino chief administrative officer of Norton Children’s Hospital and Norton Children’s Medical Center.

In her role, Scardino will oversee all facets of the hospital’s operations and work diligently to ensure that children throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana have access to specialty and emergency care. She also will oversee operations of Norton Children’s Medical Center in northeastern Jefferson County.

“I’m honored to join Norton Children’s excellent physicians, nurses and staff as we aim to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for all children in Kentucky, Southern Indiana, and beyond,” said Scardino. “I look forward to leading this amazing team as we work to accomplish the best clinical outcomes, a world class experience for families, and ultimately healthier communities.”

Scardino was chosen following a national search. She previously worked at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, serving as vice president and vice president of operations. She also held the role of vice president of Texas Children’s Health Plan, the largest provider-sponsored children’s Medicaid plan in the U.S, with more than 530,000 members.

During her tenure, Scardino helped drive the strategy that elevated Texas Children’s to a Top 5 ranking for Best Children’s Hospitals with U.S. News & World Report.

“Diane has extensive pediatric health care experience and a great reputation of taking hospitals to the next level,” said Charlotte Ipsan, senior vice president and chief hospital officer, Norton Healthcare. “I look forward to seeing her vision unfold as we bring more comprehensive care to children and families throughout the region.”

Scardino has been an active member in her community, serving on several not-for-profit boards focused on children’s health, mental health advocacy and education. 

Scardino replaces Emmett Ramser, who retired last year.

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Norton Children’s Hospital is Kentucky and Southern Indiana’s only full-service, free-standing pediatric hospital. Located in downtown Louisville, the 300-bed children’s hospital is the region’s only Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and provides a complete range of services just for kids. Currently serving more than 215,000 patients on average per year, including more than 93,000 pediatric emergency care visits and nearly 13,000 pediatric surgeries, Norton Children’s provides comprehensive care for children of all ages across the region. Learn more at NortonChildrens.com.