Published: May 08, 2009 08:07 am      

Q & A with VVRH president

Born and raised in Atoka County, Oklahoma, Bob Thompson has served southern Oklahomans for more than 40 years. For the past 13 years, Thompson was president of Mercy Memorial Health Center in Ardmore. Because of his ability to build strong community relationships and his vision, he was able to raise more than $22 million from the Ardmore community to build a brand-new patient tower.

Thompson continues to do what he does best: building relationships that make for stronger, healthier communities. If you know Thompson then you know his values: family, going to church, healthcare and hitting the golf course on occasion. Here’s a Q&A with Valley View’s president:

Question: How is this Mercy/Ada partnership good for Ada?

Answer: Mercy has deep roots in Oklahoma. By partnering, Mercy provides Valley View with shared services, including a financial team, leadership development and assistance with physician relationships and recruitment.

Q: Is Valley View no longer locally operated? A: Valley View remains a not-for-profit, locally owned hospital.

Q: What exactly is a management agreement?

A: A management agreement allows for Valley View to remain locally owned with Mercy providing support.

Q: Why would Mercy want to get involved with Valley View?

A: Mercy has had a long history of partnerships throughout the state including Oklahoma Heart Hospital in Oklahoma City and Arbuckle Memorial Hospital in Sulphur. Mercy’s long-term goal it to provide quality care close to home.

Q: How does Ada ensure local control?

A: Valley View’s hospital board of directors remains at the helm, overseeing all operations.