(Batesville, Ark.)—Gary L. Bebow, Administrator/ CEO of White River Health System (WRHS) recently received the Grassroots Champion Award from the American Hospital Association (AHA).

The award is presented annually by the AHA to one recipient per state in recognition of leaders who most effectively inform and educate elected officials on how major issues affect the hospital’s role in the community.  The recipients demonstrate dedication to expanding community support and serve as  strong advocates for their patients, and organizations.

During Bebow’s tenure as CEO, WRHS has grown from a community hospital to a regional healthcare organization with facilities in fourteen communities throughout north central Arkansas.  The flagship facility, White River Medical Center has grown from a 108-bed hospital to a 224-bed referral center with more than 100 physicians on the Medical Staff.

Bebow is an advocate for rural healthcare at the local, state, and national level.  He works to build partnerships that promote wellness, create jobs, and ensure the access to care for the most vulnerable residents.  Bebow has a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Michigan State University and a Master of Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan. He has been the Administrator/CEO at WRHS for 26 years.

WRHS is a not-for-profit healthcare system serving residents throughout North Central Arkansas.  The system includes hospitals, outpatient facilities, primary care and specialty physician office practices, and senior life centers.  White River Health System is a member of the Premier Alliance, the American Hospital Association, and the Arkansas Hospital Association and licensed by the Arkansas Department of Health.