Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Dodge as its new Chief Operations Officer (COO) effective June 22, 2026. Dodge brings a unique blend of front-line clinical experience and strategic healthcare leadership that will support CCMH’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality care across Carroll County and surrounding communities.

Dodge joined CCMH in May 2025 with a career rooted in patient care and expanded through progressive leadership roles in healthcare operations and finance. She began her career as an outpatient Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), spending seven years working closely with patients and care teams. Her early experiences directly shaped her leadership approach and fueled her transition into broader operational and strategic roles.

“I am honored to serve as Carroll County Memorial Hospital’s Chief Operating Officer,” Dodge said. “What drew me to this role is the opportunity to work alongside people who are closest to the challenges—and the solutions. I see a team that values input, adapts quickly, and is committed to making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves.”

Throughout her career, Dodge has demonstrated a strong ability to lead complex healthcare initiatives. In previous leadership roles, Dodge oversaw regulatory efforts tied to Orthopaedic Center of Excellence certification across three service lines and later served as a Strategic and Finance Coordinator within the Department of Surgery. Her diverse experience positions her to bring thoughtful operational leadership and strategic vision to CCMH.

“I’ve had the privilege of leading CCMH through many important milestones, and I am confident that Laura’s collaborative leadership style and operational insight will help carry that momentum forward,” said Scott Thoreson, former CCMH Chief Executive Officer. “She understands the importance of listening to frontline teams and translating those insights into meaningful improvements for patients and the organization.”

Blake Riley, CCMH Chief Executive Officer, also expressed enthusiasm about Dodge joining the leadership team. “Laura brings a rare combination of clinical understanding and strategic experience that will be invaluable as we continue to evolve,” Riley said. “Her commitment to transparency, teamwork, and community-centered care aligns perfectly with CCMH’s mission. I’m looking forward to working alongside her as we strengthen operations and continue expanding services for the communities we serve.”

As Chief Operations Officer, Dodge will focus on strengthening operational excellence, expanding access to care, and supporting the hospital’s longterm sustainability. She sees tremendous opportunity ahead for CCMH as rural healthcare continues to evolve.

Dodge noted that CCMH’s culture and strong sense of community were key factors in her decision to join the organization. She is especially excited to serve Carroll County and the surrounding communities and deepen her connection to the region. “Rural hospitals face challenges, but they also have unique strengths rooted in community connection,” she said. “I’m excited to help CCMH continue evolving while preserving that identity and ensuring access to high-quality care remains a priority.”

Carroll County Memorial Hospital is a trusted healthcare provider dedicated to serving the residents of Carroll County and surrounding areas with highquality, compassionate care. CCMH offers a range of services designed to meet the evolving health needs of its rural community while maintaining a strong commitment to excellence and innovation.

For more information about the services at Carroll County Memorial Hospital, visit our website https://carrollcountymemorialhospital.org or call 660-542-1695.