Sue Thompson, the former chief executive officer of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge, has been named interim chief executive officer of the entire UnityPoint Health organization. She will replace Kevin Vermeer, who is stepping down as CEO on Thursday, according to an announcement from UnityPoint Health. A national search for a permanent replacement will be conducted, the organization reported. Thompson is the senior vice president of integration and optimization and CEO of UnityPoint Accountable Care. “UnityPoint Health’s top priority has always been and continues to be providing high quality care to our patients and communities,” Thompson said. “That commitment is unwavering in this extraordinary moment. I’m proud to work alongside such a dedicated team of health care providers and staff across the Midwest. Together we are committed to serving our patients and keeping our communities healthy.” Randy Easton, chairman of the UnityPoint Health Board of Directors, thanked Vermeer for his more than 20 years of service. “Continued strong, innovative leadership is critical now more than ever before, and we are fortunate to have Sue Thompson taking the helm during this time of transition,” Easton said in a written statement. “She is well-prepared to effectively and compassionately steer our system through this time. With deep knowledge of our local communities and as a leader in protecting rural health care, she will serve our patients, physicians and staff well as we move forward.” In addition to years of experience as a nurse, Thompson has more than 30 years of leadership experience at UnityPoint Health. She has worked in regional operations and clinical performance improvement.