Mercy names new local exec

A Mercy executive is headed to Springfield to take over a recently vacated C-suite role.

David Argueta was named president of Mercy Hospitals Springfield, effective May 30, according to a news release. He's worked nearly five years for the health care system as chief administrative officer at Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City.

“David is an outstanding, experienced leader with 17 years of health care experience,” said Dr. John Mohart, who leads hospital operations across multiple states as president of Mercy Communities, in the release. “He has a servant heart, and he will bring his expertise in hospital operations, board relations and co-worker development to the Springfield community.”

Argueta succeeds Brent Hubbard, who previously served as president and chief operating officer of Mercy Hospitals Springfield Communities before exiting the health care system this month for a job with a hospital system in Oklahoma City, according to past reporting. Integris Health hired Hubbard as chief operating officer, according to the organization's website.

Argueta and Mercy Springfield Communities President Craig McCoy will report to Mohart, according to the release.

“Springfield has a long history with the Sisters of Mercy and it’s always been a vital and pivotal community to our ministry. Springfield has been at the epicenter of many of Mercy’s important innovations through the years and I am eager to continue that tradition,” Argueta said in the release. “I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve this community."

The president of Mercy Hospitals Springfield oversees all hospitals in Springfield, Aurora, Cassville, Lebanon and Mountain View, according to past reporting.