Phyllis Cowling, FHFMA, CPA, MBA, President & CEO, United Regional Health Care System, Wichita Falls
Each year, HOSPAC recognizes an outstanding hospital leader with the Star Award for their dedication and tireless work on behalf of Texas hospitals and the patients they serve. This year’s HOSPAC Star Award winner is Phyllis Cowling, president and CEO of the United Regional Health Care System in Wichita Falls.
Phyllis has been a tireless leader for Texas hospitals, and that includes her ongoing engagement in advocacy for hospitals and the patients we serve. During Phyllis’ 2018 tenure as chair of the THA Board of Trustees, she advocated for hospital leaders across Texas to financially support and engage in HOSPAC and drove board participation to an all-time high. Phyllis understands that hospitals are highly regulated and that it is critical that hospitals be engaged politically and have a seat at the table. Phyllis has developed ongoing and strong relationships with elected officials in her region. She has delivered HOSPAC donations when called upon and always provides critical feedback when it’s time for the HOSPAC board to make HOSPAC endorsement decisions. Phyllis is a longtime HOSPAC donor who puts advocacy into action and inspires others to do the same.
Phyllis’ service to the state’s health care community goes far beyond her engagement in HOSPAC. Phyllis served as a THA Board of Trustees member from 2014 to 2018. Last year, THA named her as the recipient of the
2020 Earl M. Collier Award for Distinguished Health Care Administration, its highest honor, for her contributions to the health care profession. She has also been an active member of the Healthcare Financial Management Association throughout her career and has served in various capacities at its local, regional and national levels, including the National Chair from 2002 to 2003.
HOSPAC and THA’s member hospitals are privileged to have the support of a leader who understands the value of HOSPAC’s mission to promote the success of the Texas hospital industry and the patients we serve. THA and HOSPAC congratulate Phyllis Cowling – winner of the 2021 HOSPAC Star Award.