Rooks County Health Center is pleased to announce and welcome Josh Thaden as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Josh brings more than a decade of healthcare leadership experience, with a strong background in patient services, operations, and strategic development. Prior to joining RCH, he served as Regional Senior Director of Patient Services, where he led initiatives focused on improving patient experience, operational performance, and team collaboration across multiple regions.
His path to healthcare leadership began with service in the U.S. Navy, followed by several years working in critical access hospitals. These experiences shaped his understanding of the unique role rural hospitals play in supporting both the health and stability of their communities.
Josh’s connection to rural healthcare is also personal. Born at Norton County Hospital and raised primarily in Phillips County, he has long understood the importance of local access to care. Leading a critical access hospital has been a professional goal of his, and the opportunity at RCH stood out for several reasons.
“What attracted me to Rooks County Health Center was the organization’s strong reputation and proven track record,” Josh shared. “RCH has consistently been recognized as a Chartis Top 100 Critical Access Hospital, and as I learned more, it became clear that this is an organization that is not only delivering excellent care, but also operating with a level of financial strength that sets it apart.”
He noted that RCH continues to outperform many larger hospitals in the region, a reflection of the leadership, staff, and community support that have built a solid foundation for continued success.
For Josh, stepping into this role is both a professional opportunity and a personal commitment.
“So many members of my extended family rely on care at critical access hospitals,” he said. “Being able to give back to communities like the ones I grew up in is incredibly meaningful. I have seen firsthand how important a local hospital is to both the physical and financial health of a rural county.”
Josh and his wife, Natasha, along with their five children, are looking forward to becoming part of the Rooks County community.
“What has stood out to us most is the warmth and kindness of the people here,” Josh said. “We are excited to raise our family in this community and to be actively involved in its future.”
As he begins his leadership at RCH, Josh emphasizes the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and maintaining strong community partnerships.
“Healthcare is a team effort,” he said. “Our goal is to continue being a strong partner to the communities we serve, ensuring that high-quality care remains accessible locally and that RCH continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Rooks County Health Center looks forward to this next chapter under Josh’s leadership and is excited for the future ahead.
