OTTUMWA, IOWA (October 16, 2025) – Ottumwa Regional Health Center today announced that Richard Bergmann has been named chief executive officer, effective November 10.

Bergmann joins Ottumwa Regional with more than 25 years of hospital operations experience and a strong record of leading organizational improvement across hospitals and health systems nationwide. Most recently, he served as chief operating officer at Havasu Regional Medical Center in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where he led meaningful operational and cultural advancements. Under his leadership, the hospital achieved a Leapfrog safety grade of “A” and advanced to a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in just one year.

“Richard is a proven, thoughtful leader who knows how to build trust and strengthen hospital performance through collaboration and accountability,” said Jen Alderfer, Division President of Lifepoint Health’s Western Division. “He brings a calm, steady approach that will serve Ottumwa Regional well as the team continues its focus on quality, patient safety, and community trust.”

Throughout his career, Bergmann has been recognized for his ability to engage physicians and staff around shared goals, improve patient flow and satisfaction, and enhance operational efficiency.

In addition to his leadership experience, Bergmann brings a meaningful connection to Iowa. He earned both his bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Iowa and his master’s degree in healthcare administration from Des Moines University, where he began his career in healthcare. His familiarity with the state and its communities adds to his commitment to building strong, lasting relationships in Ottumwa and the surrounding region.

Beyond his professional experience, Bergmann has a long history of community engagement and service. He is active in community service and volunteer leadership and has been a dedicated advocate for children as an adoptive and foster parent. He was also commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel, an honor recognizing civic leadership and volunteer service¸ and is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

“I’m honored to join the Ottumwa Regional team and to be part of this community,” Bergmann said. “I look forward to getting to know our employees, providers, and neighbors and working together to strengthen the hospital’s role as a trusted partner in Ottumwa and across the region.”

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About Ottumwa Regional Health Center (ORHC) 

Ottumwa Regional Health Center is a 217-bed hospital that has served Ottumwa, Wapello County and surrounding southeast Iowa communities for more than 125 years. The hospital provides a broad range of services, including emergency care, medical and surgical care, critical care, acute rehabilitation, obstetrics, pediatrics and specialty services. These include cardiac catheterization, diagnostic and therapeutic imaging, wound care, pain management, sleep studies and pathology.

Ottumwa Regional Health Center is committed to its mission of making communities healthier. For more information, call 641.684.2300 or visit ottumwaregionalhealth.com.