Grady Memorial Hospital (GMH) Board of Directors announces the planned retirement of their present Chief Executive Officer, Warren Kean Spellman, effective March of 2025. Spellman’s retirement marks the end of a distinguished 45-year career and twelve tenure at GMH characterized by transformative leadership, the sales tax election, and the saving of Grady Memorial Hospital from closure. He has served the communities in and around Grady County with unwavering dedication to improving rural healthcare, particularly in Chickasha, OK.
Spellman joined Grady Memorial Hospital in May 2013 as the Chief Executive Officer after an extensive search by the hospital board, from his role as Regional Vice-President for QHR Resources, based in Brentwood, TN. Under his leadership, GMH has not only experienced significant changes and challenges, but also new growth with the expansion of services and facilities to better serve the healthcare needs of the region. His strategic vision has been instrumental in numerous successful initiatives including coping through the Covid-19 pandemic, leading changes to include the modernization of hospital infrastructure, leading the 2016 Sales Tax initiative, construction of new hospital main entrance, surgery department, imaging department, auxiliary operated gift shop, and large Community Board room. During his tenure, there have been a number of new cutting-edge medical technologies implemented including a new 2023 generation MRI (magnetic resonance imager), Women’s Imaging Center (including 3-D Mammography,) conversion of the outdated electronic medical record system to Meditech Expanse, and the restoration of numerous campus buildings in need of major improvements/total renovations to accommodate providers. Additionally, he has recruited a number of physicians to the community, increasing the economic position, benefits, and support of various opportunities for local businesses to expand upon.

During his twelve year tenure as CEO of GMH, Spellman has been a steadfast advocate for patient-centered care, and has fostered a culture of excellence and innovation within the hospital. His commitment to quality healthcare has earned GMH numerous accolades and recognitions. As an effective liaison with the Grady County Commissioners, Spellman maintained the integrity of Grady County Hospital Authority as a Public Trust, with the county as the beneficiary of the Trust. He has advocated and participated in local & state initiatives, and organizations that are community focused and supportive of comprehensive community success, with emphasis on collaboration and cooperation in all industries. He has participated extensively with LifeCare LLC in working with other like-minded rural hospitals to support them and help them thrive. He has solidified his reputation as not only an experienced and motivational leader in rural health care, but also as an advocate for rural hospitals on state and national stages.

Reflecting on his career, Spellman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the fine professionals at GMH, and praises the dedication and professionalism of its hospital and clinic staff. "It has been an incredible honor and pleasure to serve this community and work alongside this talented and compassionate team," said Spellman. "Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones, saved the hospital through very turbulent financial times, and stabilized this community to be able to continue to fight the never-ending challenges of rural healthcare. I am confident that GMH will continue to thrive and provide exceptional care by the highly capable and passionate Vice-Presidents, leadership and staff in every area. I have full confidence that the Board of Directors will be successful in choosing a new CEO, who will carry on the battle to keep our hospital open, successful, and delivering the best care."
The Board of Directors for Grady Memorial has initiated a comprehensive search for Spellman’s successor, to ensure a seamless transition with continued commitment to the hospital’s mission of delivering high-quality healthcare. The hospital board decided to announce this planned retirement well in advance, to facilitate a successful transition plan, including open communications, and a firm handoff. Board members not only look forward to the consulting assistance by members of the LifeCare, LLC staff, and its fellow cadre of successful CEOs but also the help of a professional healthcare recruiting firm.

Grady Memorial Hospital is the leading healthcare provider serving Grady County, and located in Chickasha, Oklahoma. With over 450 employees, this 4-star hospital facility is committed to delivering exceptional medical care to the community.With a comprehensive range of services, state-of-the-art facilities, and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, GMH is focused on improving the health and well-being of each patient, and every community. For more information, visit www.GradyMem.org.