Tom Keller named President/CEO of Freeman Health

(Note: This post has been edited to reflect a statement from Freeman CEO Paula Baker.)

A few moments after the initial Turner Report post that he was coming to Freeman Health in a leadership position, Freeman President/CEO Paula Baker announced Tom Keller, president and CEO of Ozarks Healthcare will be her successor.

Baker's statement was posted on the KOAM website:

“I am excited about the appointment of Tom Keller to the role of President/CEO of Freeman Health System,” Baker states. “I am confident Mr. Keller will continue to build on Freeman’s success. I look forward to working with him during the transition period.”

The timing of the announcement was not done on Freeman officials' timetable.

A post on the Ozarks Healthcare Facebook page made it clear that Keller was taking a top job at Freeman. 

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 December 1.

Throughout his tenure, Keller has played a pivotal role in unifying and expanding the Ozarks Healthcare (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," Melissa Stewart, Chair of the Ozarks Healthcare Board of Directors, said.

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.

Baker announced her retirement in a January 25 e-mail to employees:

Dear Freeman Family,

Because I know word travels quickly, I wanted you to hear this news directly from me.

Today marks a significant milestone for me as I announce my intent to retire at the end of a one-year notice period. 

After 13 years as the President and CEO of Freeman Health System, the time has come for me to step into a new chapter of life. As all of you parents will understand, my son will be finishing high school before I can turn around and I want quality time with him. Reflecting on this remarkable journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the unwavering support, the countless memories, and the remarkable accomplishments we have achieved together as we fulfill our most sacred mission.

During my tenure as CEO, we have witnessed unparalleled growth within Freeman Health System. Through the collective efforts of our exceptional team, we have expanded our services, bolstered our workforce, and witnessed substantial increases in revenue. These achievements stand as a testament to the unwavering commitment and passion that each and every one of you has brought to the table. Together, we have transformed challenges into opportunities and obstacles into triumphs.

As I look back on our journey, I am filled with pride for the impact we have made in the healthcare industry and the lives we have touched within our region. The growth and success we have achieved together have been nothing short of extraordinary, and I am immensely proud of all of you.

As I step into retirement next year, I carry with me the cherished memories of the moments we have shared, the challenges we have overcome, and the victories we have celebrated. I am confident that the spirit of excellence and dedication that defines Freeman Health System will continue to thrive in the capable hands of those who will lead it into the future.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your CEO, and for the countless memories that I will forever hold dear. I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to lead such an exceptional team. Your dedication, hard work and consistent support have been the driving force behind our accomplishments. I look forward to witnessing the continued success and growth of Freeman Health System, and I am grateful to have been a part of its remarkable journey.

Please know that I will be at the helm through my year long notice period. We still have much to accomplish in the upcoming months.

The Board of Directors of Freeman Health System will begin the search for the new President/CEO. We will definitely keep you updated as progress is made in this endeavor.

Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart.