By Ryma Lindquist, Community Relations Director, WWH
BALDWIN, WI – Western Wisconsin Health (WWH) is excited to announce the promotion of Ellen Thompson to Chief Operating Officer (COO). In this expanded role, Ellen will leverage her extensive experience in risk, compliance, and quality management while overseeing daily operations within WWH’s Rural Health Clinics to support the continued growth and success of WWH.
Ellen, a lifelong resident of Spring Valley, Wisconsin, has been a key member of the WWH leadership team since December 2021, serving as Director of Risk, Compliance, and Quality. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in ensuring compliance standards and leading the Quality Department in pursuit of operational and clinical excellence. Her contributions have earned her a vital role on WWH’s senior leadership team.
Her career prior to WWH includes serving as Nursing Home Administrator at Heritage of Elmwood Nursing Home. In this role, she also provided regional operational leadership for Grace Lutheran Communities, providing support to multiple facilities.
Ellen holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Innovation from the University of St. Thomas and a bachelor’s degree in health care administration from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She is a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) and a licensed Nursing Home Administrator.
Ellen remains deeply connected to her local community, living in Spring Valley with her husband and three children. In addition to her role at WWH, she serves on the Board of Directors for the St. Croix Valley Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) and is an alumna of the Rural Wisconsin Healthcare Cooperative Quality Residency program. She has also shared her expertise on a National level at the AHA Rural Health Care Leadership Conference, where she presented on rural quality and patient safety.
“Ellen’s commitment to her work and her community makes her the perfect fit for this new role,” said Eilidh Pederson, CEO of Western Wisconsin Health. “We are fortunate to have her leadership and look forward to the continued positive impact she will have on our organization and the communities we serve.”
Western Wisconsin Health is a community-driven healthcare organization committed to enhancing the health and well-being of people in the region. WWH is redefining rural healthcare by offering comprehensive services, including primary care, rehabilitation, and specialty care, providing high-quality healthcare close to home.
