Ronnie Sloan to Retire in 2026, Leaving Legacy of Compassionate Healthcare on the Outer Banks
Table of Contents
A steadfast commitment to patient care and community development will define the lasting impact of Ronnie Sloan, who will retire in early 2026 after leading Outer Banks Hospital (OBH) through a period of significant growth and innovation. Sloan’s tenure has been marked by a dedication to enhancing healthcare access and quality for residents and visitors of Dare County and surrounding areas.
A Culture of Compassion and Exceptional Patient Satisfaction
Sloan is widely recognized for fostering a culture of compassion within OBH, extending to team members, medical staff, patients, and the broader community. This emphasis on empathetic care is directly reflected in patient outcomes, with OBH consistently achieving a 5-star hospital rating in North Carolina for patient satisfaction according to Press Ganey.
Under Sloan’s guidance, OBH distinguished itself as a pioneer in rural healthcare, becoming one of the first hospitals nationally to launch accredited cancer programs that demonstrably reduced mortality rates. Further demonstrating this commitment to specialized care, OBH also became the first Dementia Friendly Hospital in North Carolina and achieved accredited stroke-ready status.
Expanding Healthcare Access on the Outer Banks
Beyond specialized programs, Sloan spearheaded the expansion of essential health services across the Outer Banks. This included the introduction and growth of critical offerings such as urgent care, family medicine, urology, cardiology, ear, nose, and throat, orthopedics and sports medicine, and comprehensive cancer care services.
Throughout his career, Sloan maintained a strong partnership with both ECU Health and CRH, collaboratively advancing shared missions through dedicated leadership and unwavering integrity.
“Ronnie’s impact has been immeasurable,” stated a senior official from ECU Health community hospitals. “His contribution to eastern North Carolina, especially on the Outer Banks, will continue to benefit this region for generations. For the entirety of the past 15 years, Ronnie exemplified our mission and values in his work, leading by example and reflecting compassion and excellence in all he does. He has set a lasting tone for future healthcare leaders and team members.”
National Recognition and Community Advocacy
Sloan’s leadership was nationally recognized in 2018 with the American Hospital Association Rural Health Leadership Award, honoring his ability to guide OBH through transformative change while improving health outcomes and expanding access to care.
His dedication extended beyond the hospital walls, as Sloan actively volunteered his time and expertise with numerous community organizations, including the North Carolina Aquarium Society Board of Directors, the Outer Banks Community Foundation, the Dare Community Housing Task Force, the Access to Healthcare Task Force, and the Visitors Bureau Long Range Strategic Task Force.
“On behalf of the OBH Board of Directors, I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Ronnie Sloan for a distinguished career defined by compassion, vision and lasting impact,” said Myra Ladd-Bone, chair of the OBH Board of Directors. “His legacy will continue to benefit the people of eastern North Carolina for years to come. The Board wishes him the very best in his retirement.”
The Search for a Successor
As Sloan prepares for retirement in early 2026, the OBH Board of Directors, in collaboration with its partners, is actively seeking a successor who possesses a deep understanding of the Outer Banks community, shares its core values, and will continue the organization’s commitment to compassionate, ethical, and exceptional patient care.
