Leadership transitions can be pivotal moments for any organization, but for Wilbarger General Hospital in Vernon, Texas, the recent appointment of Tonya Price as Interim Chief Executive Officer marks both a new chapter and a continuation of steadfast service. Price, who previously served as the hospital’s Interim Chief Nursing Officer since July 2025, officially stepped into her new role last week, with the Board of Directors making the announcement effective October 15, 2025, according to Texomashomepage.com and KAUZ.
This change in leadership follows the retirement of Thomas “Tom” Siemers, who concluded his tenure as CEO on October 14, 2025. Siemers, a well-respected figure at Wilbarger General Hospital, had led the institution since April 1, 2020, and announced his retirement on September 30, 2025, after more than five years at the helm. His departure marks the end of an era characterized by significant contributions and steady guidance, as acknowledged by the hospital’s Board of Directors. In a statement released by the Board, they expressed their appreciation for Siemers’ service, noting his “significant contributions during his tenure.”
For those who have followed the hospital’s journey, Siemers’ impact is hard to overstate. Over his five years of leadership, Wilbarger General Hospital navigated the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting healthcare regulations, and the increasing complexity of rural hospital management. While the Board and staff bid farewell to Siemers, they have extended a warm welcome to Tonya Price, signaling their confidence in her ability to steer the hospital through its next phase.
“Tonya brings over a wealth of healthcare experience and has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout her career,” the Board of Directors said, as reported by KAUZ. This sentiment was echoed in Texomashomepage.com’s coverage, which highlighted Price’s extensive background in healthcare and her proven leadership skills. Having served as Interim Chief Nursing Officer since July 2025, Price is no stranger to the hospital’s inner workings or its mission.
What does this leadership change mean for Wilbarger General Hospital and the community it serves? For starters, it represents continuity. Price’s recent experience as Interim Chief Nursing Officer means she is already deeply involved in the day-to-day operations and long-term planning of the hospital. Her promotion to Interim CEO ensures that there will not be a disruptive learning curve or a period of uncertainty—something that staff and patients alike can appreciate.
According to the Board’s announcement, Price’s appointment is not just about filling a vacancy; it’s about ensuring the hospital continues to move forward with its mission of providing quality healthcare to the Vernon community and surrounding areas. The Board and staff have expressed their excitement about Price’s new role, emphasizing their commitment to supporting her as she steps into these expanded responsibilities.
The transition also reflects the hospital’s recognition of internal talent and leadership. By choosing Price—a leader who has already earned the trust and respect of her colleagues—the Board is sending a strong message about the value of continuity and institutional knowledge. It’s a move that many in the healthcare industry view as both prudent and strategic, especially in an era where rural hospitals face mounting financial and operational pressures.
Price’s journey to the top leadership position at Wilbarger General Hospital is emblematic of her dedication to healthcare and her ability to lead in challenging circumstances. Those who have worked with her describe her as a steady hand, capable of making tough decisions while maintaining a compassionate approach to patient care and staff management. Her experience as Interim Chief Nursing Officer has given her firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the hospital, from staffing shortages to the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare delivery.
It’s worth noting that Wilbarger General Hospital, like many rural hospitals across the United States, plays a critical role in its community. As the primary healthcare provider for Vernon and the surrounding region, the hospital not only offers essential medical services but also serves as a major employer and community hub. Leadership changes at such institutions carry weight—not just for staff, but for the thousands of residents who rely on the hospital for their health and well-being.
The Board’s decision to appoint Price as Interim CEO comes at a time when the hospital, and indeed the entire healthcare sector, is facing significant headwinds. From rising costs and workforce shortages to the lingering effects of the pandemic, rural hospitals have had to adapt quickly to survive and thrive. Under Siemers’ leadership, Wilbarger General Hospital weathered these storms with resilience, and the Board is hopeful that Price will continue this legacy.
In their official statement, the Board underscored their appreciation for Siemers’ “significant contributions during his tenure,” pointing to his steady leadership through turbulent times. Siemers’ retirement, effective October 14, 2025, was announced on September 30, giving the hospital time to plan a smooth transition. The Board’s proactive approach in naming Price as his successor—first as Interim Chief Nursing Officer and now as Interim CEO—demonstrates their commitment to stability and forward momentum.
For the staff at Wilbarger General Hospital, the transition has been met with optimism. The warm welcome extended to Price is more than just a formality; it’s a reflection of the confidence that both the Board and her colleagues have in her abilities. As one staff member put it, “Tonya knows this hospital inside and out. She’s been here through the tough times and the good times, and we’re excited to see where she’ll take us next.”
Looking ahead, Price’s leadership will be tested by the same challenges that have faced rural hospitals nationwide: recruiting and retaining skilled staff, maintaining financial stability, and ensuring that patients receive high-quality care close to home. But with her track record of leadership and the support of the Board and staff, there’s a sense of cautious optimism in Vernon.
As the hospital enters this new era, the community will be watching closely. For now, the message from Wilbarger General Hospital is clear: continuity, experience, and a commitment to service remain at the heart of its mission. With Tonya Price at the helm, the institution aims to honor its legacy while embracing the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
In a time of change, Wilbarger General Hospital’s steady hand at the wheel offers reassurance to the community it serves, promising that its commitment to quality healthcare remains unwavering.
