Myrtue Medical Center Announces Appointment of New Chief Executive Officer

The Myrtue Medical Center Board today announced that Kile Magner has been named Chief Executive Officer, effective Jan. 1, 2026. Magner succeeds Barry Jacobsen, who is retiring at the end of this year after 28 years of leadership to the hospital and community.

Magner joins Myrtue Medical Center from Ellinwood District Hospital, a critical access hospital in Ellinwood, Kansas, where he is serving as CEO and has been instrumental leading the introduction of new patient services, strengthening rural access to specialty care, and driving operational excellence. With a career spanning over 25 years, Magner has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing rural healthcare excellence and strengthening community partnerships.

“Kile is a compassionate and visionary leader who understands the unique strengths and challenges of rural healthcare,” said Mike Frederick, Board Chair. “We are excited to work with Kile and are confident that he will continue our mission of caring for our neighbors with the utmost compassion and excellence.”

The Board also expressed deep gratitude to Barry Jacobsen who has guided the hospital through years of growth and change. During Jacobsen’s tenure, Myrtue earned consistent national recognition for excellence in rural healthcare for quality, patient experience, market share and financial stability, and the Board recognized Jacobsen for his leadership and commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of the people we serve.