(Joplin, MO) – A symbolic transition of leadership took place on April 1, 2025, between Freeman Health System’s outgoing President Paula Baker and new Freeman President Matthew Fry.
Fry, who was chosen as the health system’s new leader in January by Freeman Health System Board of Directors, assumed leadership duties on April 1. Baker, who announced her retirement in early 2024, has played key roles within the region’s largest employer since 1981, presiding over the health system for the last 13 years.
Before his move to Missouri, Fry served as President and Chief Executive Officer of St. John’s Hospital and St. John’s Children’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, as well as Market President and CEO for the entire central Illinois market of Hospital Sisters Health System, which includes six hospitals and numerous specialist centers and clinics.
Fry holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt; a Master of Business Administration from the University of Nevada, Reno; a Master of Health Care Administration from Louisiana State University, Shreveport; and a Doctor of Health Administration from the University of Mississippi.
About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2024, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System one of the Best Hospitals for 2022. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.
Reference:
Kevin McClintock, Media Relations Coordinator
Freeman Health System
417.434.3458
KSMcclintock@freemanhealth.com
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