New Marshall County Hospital CEO pledges local recruitment and community partnerships

Marshall County Hospital introduced its new chief executive officer to the Fiscal Court on April 21. Steven Luther, who said he started about six weeks ago, told the court he plans to "get back to basics," increase the hospital’s presence in the community and pursue partnerships with nearby systems to keep care local when possible.

"Marshall County is a community hospital," Luther said in his brief introduction. "Were going to be more out in the community and engaged with you all. When theres opportunities for us to partner or be involved in anything, we want to be at the table." He said the hospital will not pursue certain specialty services locally — "were never going to do neurosurgery" or establish a cath lab — but will focus on offering care close to home and on programs such as a swing-bed program to return patients locally when appropriate.

Luther summarized his background in Western Kentucky and earlier roles growing clinic networks and said recruitment will focus on providers with ties to the region. Court members responded positively and said they look forward to the hospital being an active community partner.

The court did not take any formal action related to the hospital during the meeting; the presentation was introductory.