Girard Medical Center Welcomes New CEO, Travis K. Battagler
Launch the media gallery 1 playerGirard Medical Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Travis K. Battagler as its new Chief Executive Officer. Battagler brings 20 years of clinical and operational healthcare experience to the role and is known for his servant-minded leadership, strategic vision, and passion for community-based care.
Battagler succeeds Ruth Duling, who announced her retirement in March of this year. Duling has been a steadfast leader and advocate for rural healthcare, serving Girard Medical Center with dedication for 30 years — the last eight as CEO. Under her leadership, the hospital strengthened its services, expanded community partnerships, and maintained its commitment to high-quality, compassionate care. The entire GMC team extends its deepest gratitude to Ruth for her decades of service and unwavering commitment to the mission of the hospital.
Prior to joining GMC, Battagler served as Director of Heart Center, Radiology, and Surgical Services at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg. In that role, he managed three major service lines across 18 departments and more than 100 associates. He was instrumental in leading several key initiatives, including the launch of a state-of-the-art electrophysiology program, integration of PET/CT services, and a full renovation of critical radiology spaces to improve emergency and outpatient imaging experiences.
With nearly 13 years of progressive leadership experience, Battagler has served in roles such as Cath Lab Coordinator, Heart Center Manager, and Director. He has successfully led teams through three organizational acquisitions, giving him a deep understanding of operational strategy, team development, and change management in healthcare environments.
“I’m honored to be joining Girard Medical Center, an organization with a rich history of providing high-quality care to its surrounding communities,” said Battagler. “I look forward to building on that legacy by expanding our ability to impact patient care and positively influence the lives of those we serve. As a servant leader, I believe in staying connected to the teams and patients we serve — so don’t be surprised if you find me in scrubs, side by side with our care teams.”
Battagler earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Pittsburg State University and holds certification as a Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS). He is currently pursuing his MBA with a healthcare emphasis, with expected completion in 2026.
Travis lives in Carl Junction, Missouri, with his wife Erin, a Family Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in emergency and urgent care. The couple will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary this August. They have two children — Luke, a sophomore at Pittsburg State University and president of HOSA, who plans to become a CRNA; and Olivia, a senior at Carl Junction High School, who will explore healthcare careers this year through the Advanced Professional Studies program at MSSU.
An adventurer at heart, Battagler draws inspiration from the outdoors. He has hiked the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim, summited Pikes Peak multiple times, and completed RAGBRAI, a week-long bicycle ride across Iowa. His love of challenge, teamwork, and personal growth mirrors the energy and vision he brings to his new role at Girard Medical Center.
Girard Medical Center welcomes Travis Battagler and looks forward to the next chapter of growth and community service under his leadership.