Episode 16: Leading with Integrity: Dr. David Schreiner on Transforming Rural Healthcare

In this episode of BRight Minds in Healthcare Delivery, host Eric Tower engages in a thought-provoking conversation with guest Dr. David Schreiner, former president and CEO of Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital, which merged with OSF Healthcare in January 2025 to create OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center. Dr. Schreiner shares insights on the changes that drove the hospital’s board to reconsider its trajectory and decide that independence was no longer sustainable. He recounts the decade-long journey of preparing for an affiliation, including how he led the board through the transition, the strategic process of finding the best partner for affiliation, and the transparent approach taken with employees and community members. The conversation also touches on current issues and trends in healthcare, such as Medicaid and the fiscal viability of rural hospitals.

Today, Dr. Schreiner is a nationally recognized speaker, mentor, consultant, and author with a mission to inspire leaders, transform organizations, and advance the well-being of rural communities. With more than 35 years of healthcare leadership experience, Dr. Schreiner has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead with integrity, foster resilience, and achieve sustainable success in the face of complex challenges. Drawing from his experiences, he recently authored a book titled “Be The Best Part of Their Day: Supercharging Communication with Values-Driven Leadership,” which focuses on effective executive communications and how to create meaningful interactions with key stakeholders. Learn more about Dr. Schreiner at https://drdavidschreiner.com/.