Pine Ridge (S.D.) Hospital, a 45-bed facility in the Indian Health Service Great Plains Area, has welcomed Mark Meersman as CEO.
Here are six things to know about Mr. Meersman.
1. In his role, he will be responsible and accountable for managing the hospital's administrative and healthcare activities, according to a news release. He will also provide overall leadership and direction for the hospital's professional, administrative, technical and clerical employees, and he will work closely with tribal leaders "to maintain open communication and meet the needs of the local community," the release states.
2. Mr. Meersman previously served as a healthcare administrator in the U.S Air Force.
3. He retired from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel after more than two decades of service.
4. Mr. Meersman's most recent assignment in the U.S. Air Force was as chief of the health benefits branch in the Air Force Surgeon General's Office, according to the release. In that role, he oversaw and directed health policy and programs for 75 hospitals and clinics, the release states.
5. He earned a bachelor's degree from Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill., and a master's degree in business administration in healthcare administration from City University of Seattle in Bellevue, Wash.
6. Mr. Meersman is an American College of Healthcare Executives fellow and a board- certified medical practice executive.