DURANGO, CO (October 21, 2026) – CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Theine as its new president, effective December 7. A respected healthcare leader with deep roots in the Four Corners region, Theine brings more than 15 years of executive experience and a career-long dedication to advancing healthcare across Southwest Colorado to the role.
Theine joins Mercy Hospital from Southwest Health System, where he has served as CEO since July 2023. His extensive background in regional healthcare includes serving as CEO of Animas Surgical Hospital, executive director of San Juan Basin Public Health, and managing physician operations at Mercy Hospital earlier in his career.
Beyond his operational expertise, Theine is a prominent voice in statewide healthcare policy. He has served on the Colorado Option Advisory Board, the Governor’s AI Workgroup, and the Colorado Rural Health Transformation Program Advisory Committee. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his commitment to improving the access, quality, and affordability of care, as well as his focus on the economic vitality of the communities he serves.
"Joe is an exceptional leader whose track record of service and deep understanding of our local healthcare landscape make him the ideal person to guide Mercy Hospital into this next chapter," said Pete Powers, President of CommonSpirit’s Greater Colorado & Kansas Market. "His passion for our mission and his commitment to our patients align perfectly with the values of this organization."
Theine holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from the University of Puget Sound, an MBA from Regis University, and a Master of Health Care Delivery Science from Dartmouth. He and his wife, Ann, have been active members of the Southwest Colorado community for over 20 years.
Mercy Hospital welcomes Joe Theine as he transitions into his new role and looks forward to a future of continued excellence and service to the region.
Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit Health is building a healthier future for all through its integrated health services. As one of the nation’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health delivers more than 20 million patient encounters annually through more than 2,300 clinics, care sites and 137 hospital-based locations, in addition to its home-based services and virtual care offerings. CommonSpirit has more than 155,000 employees, 45,000 nurses and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice providers across 24 states and contributes more than $4 billion annually in charity care, community benefits and unreimbursed government programs. Together with our patients, physicians, partners, and communities, we are creating a more just, equitable, and innovative healthcare delivery system. Learn more at commonspirit.org.