WEBSTER CITY – Lori Rathbun, Van Diest Medical Center chief executive officer, will not be returning from a medical leave of absence she began in April 2017, hospital officials have announced.

The resignation will allow her to focus exclusively on her health as she continues to receive medical treatment for an undisclosed condition, hospital officials said.

“Lori was a results-driven leader with an innate understanding of the ever-changing dynamics of healthcare,” Roberta Knutson, chairperson of the hospital board of trustees said. “Her vision, experience and dedication helped to lead our hospital through some of the most significant accomplishments in our history of healthcare from the opening of Van Diest Family Health Clinic to the successful merger with Webster City Medical Clinic.

“We are extremely grateful for her leadership and insight in growing and supporting local healthcare; our hospital is better positioned for future viability because of the many successful initiatives she led during her time here.”

Rathbun joined the organization as interim CEO in February 2014 and was later appointed to her position as CEO in June of that same year. Prior to her role at Van Diest Medical Center, Rathbun served as finance executive for the Mercy Health Network based out of Des Moines. She worked with Mercy Medical Center in both Centerville and Des Moines for 16 years prior to her MHN role.

Mike Trachta, vice president for Network Critical Access Hospital Operations with MHN, has served as interim CEO since Rathbun took the medical leave of absence. He will continue in the role while a search is underway for a new CEO.