Lisa Ridge was appointed the new CEO of Van Diest Medical Center.

The Van Diest Medical Center Board of Trustees, in partnership with Mercy Health Network – Central Iowa, has announced the appointment of Lisa Ridge as Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of Van Diest Medical Center. This decision came following an extensive interview and selection process conducted over the past several weeks by both the Board and MHN.

Ridge succeeds former CEO Lori Rathbun who stepped down from the position in June due to medical reasons.

Ridge has served as Chief Nursing Officer and Assistant Administrator of the hospital since August 2016. Her vision and direction, coupled with over 27 years of experience as an healthcare executive, support the goals and mission of VDMC, according to Board of Trustees Chair Roberta Knutson.

“Speaking on behalf of the entire board, we look forward to working with Lisa in her new role as CEO. She has established an excellent track record as our Chief Nursing Officer and has demonstrated that she has the skills necessary to continue to lead our hospital in its mission to enhance the lives of those in our community by providing exceptional, patient-centered healthcare,” Knutson said. “We know Lisa looks forward to becoming more active in the community as she continues to better acquaint herself with area residents and community members.”

Mike Trachta, Vice President for Network Critical Access Hospital Operations at MHN said, “We are excited to have Lisa transition into the CEO role. Throughout her career, Lisa has successfully developed strong cultures of safety and demonstrated a commitment to delivering high quality care. Under her leadership, I am confident that VDMC will continue to grow and prosper.”

“I am humbled, pleased and honored to accept the CEO position at Van Diest Medical Center,” Ridge said. “I wish to extend a very special thanks to the Board of Directors, providers and leaders who took the time to participate in the interview process. I look forward to the opportunities to grow our hospital to better serve the patients in our community.”

Ridge will officially transition into her new role Oct. 1. Hospital officials said recruitment efforts for a new CNO will begin immediately.