(Atlantic, IA) – Officials with Cass Health, in Atlantic, today (Wednesday), announced that “After a decade of transformative leadership that elevated Cass Health into a nationally recognized regional healthcare hub, Chief Executive Officer Brett Altman has announced his retirement.” Altman will remain a part of the leadership team through January 1, 2027—his official 10-year anniversary—to ensure a seamless transition for the organization.

The Cass Health Board of Trustees will initiate a search for a successor, evaluating qualified candidates to lead the organization through its next phase of strategic expansion. “The next several months will focus on identifying the right leader to build upon the incredible gains we have made together,” said Altman. “It has been the honor of my career to serve this community, and I am confident that the momentum we have built together will propel Cass Health to even greater heights.”

Cass Health CEO Brett Altman (Official photo)

A Legacy of Excellence and Expansion:

Since joining Cass Health in 2017, Altman has overseen an era of unprecedented growth. Under his tenure, the organization doubled its market share and patient base, now serving more than 36,000 residents across southwest and west-central Iowa. Mike Klocke, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, noted that Altman’s “well-organized framework for growth” redefined the hospital’s future. Notable achievements include:

• Workplace Culture and Employee Recognition: Earned annual “Top Workplace” awards and implemented the DAISY and ROSE recognition programs. Altman also initiated “Mission Moments” to celebrate staff achievements in the employee weekly newsletter and nine “Hospital Heroes” have been recognized statewide during his tenure.
• Provider Recruitment: Successfully recruited over 100 new providers, drastically expanding local access to top-shelf specialty care.
• National Recognition: Secured five consecutive Top 20 Critical Access Hospital, 2026 Forbes 5-Star Hospital honors, and a 2024 finalist spot for the American Hospital Association’s “Rural Hospital of the Year.”
• Infrastructure & Innovation: Led the rebranding to Cass Health, championed the new Tyler Family Cancer Center, launched Rapid Care, and initiated the adoption of robotic surgery.
• State Leadership: Obtained the Governor’s designation as a “Rural Hospital Center of Excellence” and multiple Nurse Apprenticeship grants. Altman has also served as Treasurer and Vice-Chair of the Iowa Hospital Association Board.

Future-Focused Transition

Altman’s departure comes as Cass Health executes a robust five-year strategic plan, including facility expansions and remodels scheduled through 2028. “Because of our nationwide reputation as one of the best rural hospitals in the country, I have no doubt we will attract stellar candidates,” Klocke said. “Cass Health is positioned as a premier employer and provider, and the framework is in place for the next leader to hit the ground running.”

Reflections on a 36-Year Career
Altman’s retirement marks the conclusion of a 36-year career in healthcare leadership. Prior to Cass Health, he served as President & CEO of Skiff Medical Center in Newton, IA. Throughout his career, Altman has been a vocal advocate for streamlining healthcare complexity. “Ideally, more time should be spent delivering timely care rather than navigating the complexities of healthcare, jumping through insurance hoops, and obtaining pharmaceutical & medical authorizations,” Altman reflected.

In his announcement, Altman expressed deep gratitude: “I have been fortunate to collaborate with a team that genuinely cares about our patients and each other. Our staff is the best in the business. It is a privilege to conclude my career as CEO of Cass Health.”