Richard R. Vath, MD, president and chief executive officer of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System, has announced his plans to retire in June 2024 after more than 40 years of service as a physician and healthcare administrator.
“It has been my honor to lead an organization firmly rooted in the service of others through our healing ministry,” said Vath. “I have been privileged to help set us down a path that will define the future of our healthcare system, ensuring growth and stability for years to come.”
Vath will support the search for the health system’s next leader to ensure a successful transition. Executive search firm WittKieffer has been secured and a committee formed to select the next leader of FMOLHS. Vath has served as the health system’s leader since 2019. During that time, he was responsible for setting a long-term vision for the healthcare system, spearheading expansion efforts across the region, and leading through the COVID-19 pandemic and its ensuing clinical and financial challenges.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Vath for his outstanding leadership. Under his direction, FMOLHS has made significant progress in achieving operational excellence as an integrated operating company and has experienced substantial growth,” said Bobby Yarborough, FMOLHS Board chair. “He has built strong partnerships and coalitions for innovation throughout our ministry and guided the expansion of FMOLHS into Mississippi.”
During his tenure with the health system, Vath led the development of the FMOLHS Health Leader’s Network (HLN) in 2014. HLN is a clinically integrated network of more than 1,400 providers. Franciscan Health Physicians, FMOLHS’ employed medical group, grew to more than 1,000 providers across two states, expanding access for the communities it serves.
Vath was among the first health system CEOs to sign the Catholic Health Association’s Confronting Racism by Achieving Health Equity pledge. To further FMOLHS’ diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, he implemented a structure to ensure the ministry offers a place of respect and inclusion, and welcomes each person’s diverse talents, experiences, and backgrounds as gifts.
“Dr. Vath lives our mission of Catholic healthcare and the unique opportunity we are called to in our ministry to see the face of Christ in all people,” stated Sr. Laura Wolf, Chair, Franciscan Calais Ministries. “He is a man of deep faith and has brought a vision and strength of service as president and CEO which has positioned us for long-term stability and strength. His imprint on FMOLHS is immeasurable.”