Richmond, MO – Ray County Hospital and Healthcare is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa DeKezel, MJ, BSN, RN, as Chief Executive Officer. Lisa brings over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience and a deep-rooted passion for ensuring the sustainability and success of rural healthcare.

Raised in small rural communities, Lisa has dedicated her career to protecting access to quality healthcare for populations often underserved by larger healthcare systems. Her extensive background includes leading critical access hospitals and community health systems, where she has consistently focused on stabilizing operations, strengthening team culture, and expanding vital services.

“My passion, hands down, is rural healthcare,” Lisa shared. “I’ve seen firsthand how critical access to healthcare services is, not just for the health and well-being of rural communities, but for the economic vitality and sustainability of these areas. When I learned about the opportunity at Ray County Hospital, I could immediately see the heart and foundation that exists here. This community deserves exceptional care close to home, and I’m honored to be part of ensuring that happens.”

Lisa’s leadership philosophy centers on empowerment, excellence, and purpose. Her personal mantra, “Go Be Great,” reflects her commitment to inspiring teams to be their best selves for every patient, every encounter, every time. She believes healthcare is not just a job, but a calling, and is committed to reigniting pride and purpose across the Ray County Hospital team.

“We are here to stay. We are committed to our community,” Lisa emphasized. “Ray County Hospital is community caring for community, and that’s what makes rural healthcare so special. I want our patients, our staff, and our neighbors to know that we are here to serve, and we are building a foundation for long-term sustainability.”

A Registered Nurse by background, Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University and a Master of Jurisprudence in Health Law and Policy from Loyola University Chicago. Her unique blend of clinical expertise and legal knowledge equips her to navigate the complex challenges facing rural healthcare today while keeping patient care at the center of every decision.

Lisa has already relocated to Richmond and is actively engaging with the community. She believes that the best way to serve a community is to be part of it, and she looks forward to building relationships with local organizations, understanding community needs, and ensuring Ray County Hospital remains a trusted healthcare partner for years to come.

Over the next three to five years, Lisa’s priorities will focus on strengthening team culture, enhancing core services that are essential to the community, and ensuring long-term sustainability. She is committed to fostering collaboration, both within the hospital team and with regional healthcare partners, while maintaining Ray County Hospital’s independence and mission-driven identity.

“This hospital has a strong foundation, dedicated staff, and a community that needs us,” Lisa said. “Together, we’re going to ensure Ray County Hospital thrives for generations to come. We are here to serve our community with pride, purpose, and excellence.”

Ray County Hospital and Healthcare serves Richmond and the surrounding Ray County region with a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, imaging, laboratory, rehabilitation, specialty clinics, and more. The hospital is committed to providing exceptional, compassionate care close to home.

For more information about Ray County Hospital and Healthcare, visit rayhealthcare.org or call 816-470-5432.