Winneshiek Medical Center and Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare have named Susan Heitman, RN, DNP, to serve as the next chief nursing officer at WMC.
Heitman will be responsible for overseeing the practice of nursing throughout the Medical Center to ensure the delivery of comprehensive, quality and coordinated services that meet the needs of those being served.
Heitman comes to WMC most recently from Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Healthcare in La Crosse, Wis., where she currently serves as nursing administrator for primary care in the east and south regions including Waukon, Prairie du Chien, Tomah and the Sparta Hospital.
Prior to this position, Heitman was nursing supervisor for Perioperative Services at Vernon Memorial Healthcare in Viroqua, Wis.
Mayo Clinic Health System – Franciscan Health Care Chief Nursing Officer, Diane Holmay said, “Sue’s record of accomplishment in the nursing profession, and her passion for nursing and clinical leadership make her an outstanding candidate for the position in Decorah.”
“Sue’s leadership and experience will be an asset as we continue our focus on exceptional quality and compassionate care for our patients,” said Chief Medical Officer Robert Flinchbaugh, D.O.
“She is an enthusiastic leader who has a proven record of success in healthcare and we’re excited that she has chosen to join us.”
Heitman earned a Bachelor of Science in nursing and Master of Science in nursing education from Winona State University. She received her Doctorate of nursing practice from St. Catherine University in 2012.
“We’re looking forward to partnering with Sue to continue our century-long mission of providing quality care to the people of our community and region,” said Lisa Radtke, chief administrative officer at WMC.
Heitman will transition into her new role in the coming weeks, succeeding Linda Klimesh, who has been serving as chief nursing officer for the past 4 ½ years.
Klimesh will retire from WMC after dedicating 36 years of nursing service and leadership to the patients, families and staff of the Medical Center.