Mile Bluff fills three key leadership positions

Mile Bluff has a legacy of strong leadership. It dates all the way back to 1893 with its founder Dr. J.S. Hess. Since then, the torch has been passed from one generation to the next, keeping Mile Bluff at the forefront of serving the healthcare needs of area residents.

Meet three of Mile Bluff’s newest leaders who will carry on this legacy.

Rhonda Larson - Chief Nursing Officer

When Jean Surguy retired, a new leader was needed to serve as CNO. The search ended with Rhonda Larson accepting the vacant position. Larson has been with Mile Bluff for 18 years, and has most recently served as the director of Acute Care, OB and Infusion & Cancer Care. Her extensive background sets her up for success in this new position. “Working in multiple nursing and leadership roles at Mile Bluff has helped me to really understand the needs of our patients and their families” expressed Larson. “With this insight – and a focus on evidence-based nursing and excellence in clinical skills – I plan to assist our team in further elevating the great care our community has come to expect from us.”

Becca Oetzman - Chief Financial Officer  

With the announcement that CFO Dara Bartels will transition to the role of CEO when James O’Keefe retires December 1, it didn’t take long to find the right candidate to fill the open position. Becca Oetzman has been a member of the Mile Bluff team for 14 years, and has led the accounting and patient accounting departments. ​“I look forward to guiding Mile Bluff into the future” commented Oetzman. “I am committed to helping the organization keep up with the ever-changing world of healthcare, by ensuring we continue to offer the new services and technological advancements that our patients need.”

Marlene Rosenberg - Administrator of Ancillary Services          

Marlene Rosenberg has been with Mile Bluff for 12 years, and serves as the director of both the rehabilitation services and audiology departments. She has a good understanding of the processes needed to keep ancillary services operational and growing, which makes her a great fit for this newly-created role. Beginning December 22, Rosenberg will oversee Hospital Pharmacy, Laboratory, Medical Imaging, Speech & Language Pathology, Rehabilitation Services and Respiratory Care. “I look forward to using my physical therapy background to help Mile Bluff function at its highest possible level. Doing this will allow us to continue to provide community-based care that is dedicated to our families and friends for years to come.”

The end of 2021 brings with it a number of changes for Mile Bluff’s leadership team. While some may fear change, the reality is that progress is impossible without it. As leaders of a progressive organization, Mile Bluff’s newest team is committed to bringing about the changes that are best for the healthcare needs of area residents.