Freeman Announces New Chief Clinical Officer

Joplin, MO – Freeman Health System named a new chief clinical officer (CCO) in Jeff Thompson, who is currently Freeman Vice President of Pharmacy Services. Thompson will assume the leadership and oversight role on February 15.

“I am very confident in Jeff’s ability to perform the duties of this position in an extraordinary manner,” said Paula F. Baker, Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer. “Jeff’s proven track record, his dedication to the mission of Freeman and his passion for ensuring the highest possible quality outcomes for our patients were all central to this decision. Along with his other responsibilities as CCO, Jeff will maintain oversight of the pharmacy department.”

Thompson has worked with Freeman since 1997. He received a Bachelor of Science in pharmacy from University of Louisiana Monroe and a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

“I am honored to have the chance to serve Freeman Health System and our community in this new role,” said Jeff Thompson, Freeman Vice President of Pharmacy services. “With my new responsibilities come new challenges and opportunities. I look forward to working with my team and all the healthcare community to continue to improve the health of the people we serve.”

The Freeman chief clinical officer is responsible for clinical performance, quality and regulatory compliance of the health system’s clinical services.

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About Freeman Health System

Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2020, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System the Best Hospital in Southwest Missouri for 2020-2021. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 80 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services and women’s services. Additionally, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.