Community Clinic appoints new CEO

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) 1,111 views 

Springdale-based Community Clinic announced Wednesday (Dec. 18) the appointment of a new CEO.

James A. “Judd” Semingson II of Rogers, who currently serves as the associate medical director for Community Clinic, will start his new role as CEO on Jan. 1. He will succeed Kathy Grisham, who announced her retirement earlier this year.

Grisham, who has been CEO since 1998, will remain involved as a consultant.

Community Clinic offers primary, dental, behavioral and other health care at a reduced fee for those in or near poverty and accepts patients regardless of ability to pay.

“I want to be the bridge to continue the excellence and growth fostered by Kathy Grisham,” Semingson said in a statement. “For me and for Community Clinic, we are very mission-driven. We put the highest value on our patients and improving their health. We want their experience with us to be the very best it can be.”

Semingson, 42, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who specializes in treating acute and chronic illnesses, especially among patients from underserved populations. He previously worked for Advanced Orthopaedic Specialists in Fayetteville and has been responsible for a wide array of healthcare administration functions.

He holds a bachelor’s of science in nursing from the University of Arkansas, a master’s of science in nursing from the University of Cincinnati, and a master’s of business administration in healthcare management from Western Governor’s University.

“Community Clinic will continue to grow and have an impact on this community,” Semingson said. “We’ll work together with everyone interested in improving health outcomes in Northwest Arkansas. And, I’m a big believer that we must build a bond of trust with our patients. We’d like to do everything we can to help people take charge of their own health.”

Community Clinic is a member of Community Health Centers of Arkansas (CHCA). It operates 13 clinics in Benton and Washington counties.

As CEO, Semingson will also serve as a member of the CHCA board.