Former State Senate Appropriations Chair to head up Oklahoma Osteopathic Association.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — State Senator Roger Thompson (R-Okemah) announced on Thursday that he has been named the next CEO and Executive Director of the Oklahoma Osteopathic Association.

“I am honored to join the Oklahoma Osteopathic Association and work alongside dedicated professionals who are committed to improving healthcare in our state," said Senator Thompson. "Osteopathic medicine plays a crucial role in providing holistic and patient-centered care, and I look forward to contributing to the association's efforts to support our physicians and enhance healthcare delivery in Oklahoma. The healthcare system in our state faces many challenges, especially in rural Oklahoma, where many Osteopathic doctors serve vulnerable populations. I plan to be a steadfast advocate for them and everyone in this profession to help uphold our goals and mission.”

The announcement comes almost a week after Thompson submitted his resignation letter to Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat (R-Oklahoma City).

Thompson intends to resign from the Oklahoma Senate on November 1. During his time in the Senate, which began in November 2014, he served as Senate Appropriations Committee Chair. Senator Chuck Hall (R-Perry) was selected to replace Thompson as committee chair following his removal in April.

According to Thompson's office, he will be responsible for overseeing the OAA strategic initiatives and programs aimed at advancing the osteopathic profession and addressing the evolving needs of patients and healthcare providers, with an emphasis on rural Oklahoma.