Altarum Institute, a nonprofit health systems research and consulting organization, has announced Mary K. Ousley as the new chair of the board of trustees. Dr. Maxine Hayes has been elected vice-chair.

Ms. Ousley is president of Ousley & Associates, which assists health care providers in strategic planning, management problem solving, regulatory and compliance issues, operational analysis and implementation of quality management programs. Ms. Ousley has been a member of Altarum Institute’s Board since 2006.

Dr. Hayes is the state health officer for the Washington State Department of Health. As the state’s top public health doctor, her role includes advising the governor and the secretary of health on issues ranging from health promotion and chronic disease prevention, to emergency response, including pandemic influenza preparedness. Dr. Hayes has also served on the Altarum Board since 2006.

Ousley replaces Dr. Robert P. Kelch who is retiring from the board after nine years of service. Kelch will retain the title of Emeritus Trustee.

“I am very flattered to be chosen to lead Altarum,” said Ousley, “and I’m truly excited to help continue their legacy of finding a better systems approach to health care.”

“We are honored to have Mary and Maxine leading the Board. They bring tremendous and diverse experience as seasoned health professionals,” said Lincoln T. Smith, president and CEO of Altarum Institute. “I also want to thank Bob Kelch as he retires. Bob has put us on a firm path to sustained growth and mission achievement and we are indebted to him for his leadership.”

For more information on Altarum Institute and its Board, please visit the Altarum website.

Altarum Institute (www.altarum.org) integrates objective research and client-centered consulting skills to deliver comprehensive, systems-based solutions that improve health and health care. Altarum employs more than 400 individuals and is headquartered in Ann Arbor, Mich., with additional offices in the Washington, D.C., area; Atlanta, Ga.; Portland, Maine; and San Antonio, Texas.