Jack Barto, president and CEO of New Hanover Regional Medical Center, has received high honors from the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) at the N.C. Hospital Association’s winter meeting Feb. 21, according to a news release from ACHE.

Barto was presented with ACHE’s Senior-Level Healthcare Executive Regent’s Award, which recognizes members who are “experienced in the field and have made significant contributions to the advancement of health care management excellence and the achievement of ACHE’s goals,” the release stated, adding that those considered for the award are evaluated by their peers on leadership ability, executive capability, demonstrated leadership in local and state health association activities and participation in community activities and projects.

Since Barto arrived at NHRMC in 2004, the medical center has been recognized as among the “Best Hospitals” by US News & World Report and named as one of the 100 strongest hospitals in the country by iVantage Health Analytics, the release stated. It has also garnered quality and patient satisfaction awards.

Barto has served as a board member for a number of health and business organizations including Coastal Carolinas Health Alliance, UNCW Cameron Executive Advisory Board and the N.C. Hospital Association Board.