Mile Bluff names Bartels as next CEO

Mile Bluff Medical Center’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Dara Bartels will become the organization’s Chief Executive Officer when James O’Keefe retires December 1.  “Dara has an extensive employment history in healthcare finance and leadership, is passionate about rural healthcare, and seeks to continue Mile Bluff’s legacy of being innovative and progressive” commented board chair, Dr. Dan Kattenbraker.

“Dara is very well qualified to meet operational and financial goals, which means that Mile Bluff will be here to serve the community for generations to come” expressed Kattenbraker.  “These skills – along with the fact that she is articulate, fair, reasonable, energetic, intelligent and enthusiastic – make Dara a great fit for the CEO position at Mile Bluff.”

Bartels has more than 20 years of experience, and has served as Mile Bluff’s Chief Financial Officer for nearly three years.  During that time, she’s become familiar with the needs of the community, and how Mile Bluff can best meet those needs now and in the future.  In her new role, she will use this knowledge to ensure that Mile Bluff continues to provide the region with the exceptional patient-focused care that the organization has come to be known for.

According to Mile Bluff’s current CEO, James O’Keefe, “Dara’s expertise and knack for thinking outside the box are key factors that helped bring us successfully through the difficulties of a worldwide pandemic.  I have absolute confidence in the continued success of Mile Bluff, knowing that Dara will be leading the way.”