Ferrell Hospital is proud to announce that Rachael Prather, MBA, BSN, RN, has been named Chief Executive Officer. Prather has served in several key leadership roles at Ferrell since 2015, most
recently as Chief Operating Officer, and brings to her new role more than 15 years of progressive healthcare leadership experience, a passion for rural healthcare and a deep commitment to the community she serves.
Prather’s appointment marks the next step in a career rooted in hands-on patient care, operational leadership and strategic growth. Since joining Ferrell Hospital, she has overseen numerous successful initiatives including the implementation of specialty service lines and key accreditations such as ACHC hospital accreditation and CMS 5-Star ratings in patient satisfaction. She played a vital role in Ferrell’s Electronic Medical Record transition to EPIC and the hospital’s designation as an IDPH Stroke-Ready facility.
Prather shares her excitement.
“Ferrell Hospital has been my home for nearly a decade, and it is an incredible honor to step into this new role. I’m inspired every day by the people who work here and the patients we serve. Our team is focused on continuing to provide exceptional, compassionate care, right here at home in Southern Illinois.”
Prather’s leadership reflects a blend of clinical expertise and operational acumen. She began her career in nursing before advancing through leadership roles at Heartland Regional Medical Center and then Ferrell Hospital, where she served as Chief Nursing Officer and later COO. Her collaborative leadership style and patient-centered approach have earned her the trust of both her team and the wider community.
Prather is an active member of the Apostolic Church of Wasson, where her husband serves as pastor. She also serves as Sunday School Coordinator, church secretary and Vacation Bible School Director. Together, they are raising their daughter in the Eldorado community.
Prather holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Western Governors University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain College of Nursing and an Associate Degree in Nursing from Southeastern Illinois College. She also serves as a board member for MAPS ACO through the Illinois Hospital Association and co-chairs the Southeastern Illinois College Advisory Committee.
Ferrell Hospital’s Board of Directors is confident in Prather’s vision and leadership as she takes on this important role. Her appointment signals continued growth, innovation and compassionate care for the communities Ferrell Hospital serves.
