DeWayne Bailey Leads Alabama’s Rural Health Renaissance
Alabama resident, DeWayne Bailey, recently received recognition as one of the Birmingham Business Journal’s (BBJ) “40 under 40” for his influential role in enhancing rural and public health care in the state. This honor extends to local professionals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. While Bailey may be modest about his accomplishments, his reputation in the health sector is hard to ignore.
Aid to rural and public hospitals
Bailey is at the forefront of the Alabama Rural Health Collaborative (ARHC), UAB Health System – a non-profit initiative that lends its support to rural and public hospitals. The ARHC gathers multiple resources, including mobile simulations that train hospital staff in CPR and other essential areas such as obstetric care. As Bailey cautions, “A lot of the trainings are related to OB care.” In addition to this hands-on training, Bailey and his team offer technical support and assistance in managing hospital revenues.
DeWayne Bailey’s Journey to Leadership
Born and raised in Birmingham, Bailey’s mother’s career as a nurse influenced his interest in healthcare. However, after watching his mother struggle with kidney failure while completing his undergraduate degree, Bailey’s interest shifted from clinical to administrative roles. This inclination was further reinforced when Bailey was able to donate a kidney to his mother – an experience Bailey described as highly efficient and smooth.
Today, Bailey’s mother enjoys good health, and as the first person in his family to hold a master’s degree and a leadership role, Bailey’s familial success is a testament to the years of effort and sacrifice his mother endured to provide for their education.
From Education to Action
After graduating from John Carroll High School in 2002 and the University of Alabama, Birmingham in 2007, Bailey pursued a Master of Business Administration. His academic journey wasn’t limited to his own development. In the past two years, Bailey has established a mentorship program catering to graduates and early-career professionals interested in healthcare administration.
Extra-Curricular contributions to community health
Off the clock, Bailey dedicates his time to mentoring young men through his involvement with Determined 2 B (D2B), Birmingham – an initiative that focuses on the spiritual and physical development of the city’s youth. Bailey also worked with Kulture City to ensure clinics were sensory-inclusive for individuals with special needs, particularly those with Autism.
Navigating Pandemic Challenges
Like many professionals, Bailey faced the challenge of forging his path during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The trying times served as the perfect opportunity for learning and growth and Bailey rose to the occasion.
Looking Ahead
This dynamic healthcare leader anticipates more growth in the forthcoming years. When asked about his vision for the future, Bailey expressed his desire to continue as “an influential leader that drives change within my organization and the community.”
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
