HomeTrust Bancshares, the holding company of HomeTrust Bank, announced the addition of its new Healthcare Banking Division, a specialized line of business designed to serve the distinct financial needs of healthcare practices and professionals. The new division will provide customized financial solutions and relationship-driven support for medical, dental, and veterinary practices throughout each stage of the business lifecycle, from acquisition and ownership transition to expansion and long-term operations.
“The launch of the Healthcare Banking Division represents a strategic step forward in HomeTrust Bank’s mission to be a relationship-oriented, innovative partner for small and mid-sized businesses,” said Hunter Westbrook, President and CEO. “By expanding our capabilities in this important sector, we are better positioned to serve healthcare professionals with the expertise, flexibility and personal service they need to grow and manage their practices.”
HomeTrust’s Healthcare Banking Division will offer a comprehensive suite of services, including practice acquisition and buy-in financing, equipment loans, owner-occupied real estate lending, SBA lending solutions, treasury management, deposit services and other tailored banking solutions for healthcare business owners.
The Healthcare Banking Division will be led by three seasoned healthcare banking officers across the Southeast:
Evan Deyerle, Roanoke, VA, specializes in financing for medical, dental, and veterinary practices as well as other healthcare-related businesses. He previously served as a Commercial Relationship Manager at Atlantic Union Bank, where he structured financing solutions that supported practice acquisitions, commercial real estate, and equipment purchases. Deyerle is deeply connected to the Roanoke Valley community and is particularly passionate about supporting its healthcare and economic growth. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Child Health Investment Partnership (CHIP) and volunteers with Junior Achievement, where he teaches financial literacy to students.
Richard Novak, Charleston, SC, brings more than a decade of experience specializing in business and relationship banking. Prior to HomeTrust, Novak served in healthcare-focused banking roles with several national financial institutions. Novak focuses on helping healthcare professionals navigate the financial complexities of practice ownership, growth and long-term success. He is passionate about supporting local business communities and advancing entrepreneurship, and is active with the Charleston Chamber of Commerce, where he regularly volunteers to provide guidance to aspiring business owners and healthcare professionals.
Ricardo Palacio, Greenville, SC, joins HomeTrust with over a decade of experience in small business lending, portfolio management, and specialized healthcare industry solutions. Palacio most recently served as a Business Banking Relationship Manager at Bank of America, where he delivered tailored solutions to his portfolio of commercial customers. He has been actively involved as a member of the South Carolina Hispanic Leadership Program, Upstate Hispanic Leadership Council, and Emerging Leaders Program SC.