New director named for Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks

The Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks has hired George Velez to head up oversight of the medical center in Fayetteville and seven outpatient locations, including Fort Smith, Harrison and Ozark.

Velez replaces Kelvin Parks, who held the job from 2018 until his departure in 2021. Stephanie Repasky held the job in the interim.

Velez comes to Fayetteville, having recently worked as deputy medical director for the VA Caribbean Healthcare System. His career has spanned 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and several executive fellowships with the American College of Healthcare Executives, Harvard Kennedy School of Government and the American Academy of Medical Administrators.

He holds an undergraduate degree from Ohio State University, an MBA in healthcare administration from Baldwin Wallace University (Ohio), and a doctorate in health administration from Central Michigan University.

“We are thrilled to bring Dr. Velez onboard,” said Dr. Skye McDougall, director for the south central VA Health Care Network. “I expect he will build on the strong foundation of quality and veteran-centric health care. His experience will be vital as we continue to expand our partnerships with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Northwest, Mercy Health of Northwest Arkansas, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, and the Freeman Health System of Joplin.”