Ozarks Healthcare Announces Departure of CEO Tom Keller
After a decade of dedicated service to Ozarks Healthcare and the surrounding community, Tom Keller, President and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare, has announced his resignation. Keller will be stepping into a new leadership role at Freeman Health System in Missouri, effective Dec. 1.
Throughout his tenure, Keller has played a pivotal role in unifying and expanding the OZH Medical Group. Under his leadership, the group grew not only on the primary care side, but also a diverse range of highly specialized providers, ensuring that patients across the Ozarks have access to comprehensive and specialized care close to home.
Keller’s vision also drove the development of the new Medical Office Building and a refreshed branding initiative, both of which underscore Ozarks Healthcare's mission to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the Ozarks. His efforts extended beyond the hospital walls, leading to the expansion of rural clinics, retail pharmacies, and the Zizzer Clinic, along with the successful implementation of a unified electronic medical records system that has improved patient care and streamlined operations.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Keller’s steady leadership was crucial in guiding the hospital through unprecedented challenges, while maintaining a focus on patient care and community health.
"Tom has been more than just a leader—he has been an integral part of our community. His three children graduated from West Plains High School, embodying the spirit of 'Once a Zizzer, always a Zizzer.' While we are saddened to see him go, we are encouraged to know he will continue to serve the people of Missouri in his new role," said Melissa Stewart, Chair of the Ozarks Healthcare Board of Directors.
The Ozarks Healthcare Board of Directors will soon begin a comprehensive search for the next CEO. More information on this process will be provided in the coming weeks.
The entire Ozarks Healthcare team extends its deepest gratitude to Tom Keller for his exceptional leadership and service, and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.
Ozarks Healthcare is a not-for-profit health system that serves more than 160,000 residents across south-central Missouri and northern Arkansas. With its main campus residing in West Plains, Missouri, the health system offers a full spectrum of healthcare for all ages through its 114-bed hospital, behavioral health, therapies, pharmacies, rehabilitation, and home care services, along with specialty and family medicine clinics. Ozarks Healthcare has rural locations across an eight-county service area and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations.
Tom Keller, President and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare
