Employee Spotlight: Bob Morrow, President of Industrial Health Council

Employee Spotlight:   Bob Morrow, President IHC

Mr. Morrow

1.       What made you decide on a career in health care?

“I needed a job.  Actually, I was the general accounting manager for a company in Tallassee, AL but was laid off when the economy was in a slump. A local hospital in Tallassee needed an accountant and from there I got into health care administration.  I decided that I liked it and progressed to assistant administrator and CFO of Chilton County Hospital and Nursing Home. Next I went to Hale County Hospital as administrator, then Lamar County Hospital and Nursing Home which led me to become Vice President of Regional Health Services.  From there I became COO for Gillard Health Services, then president & CEO of Vaughan Health Care.  I went into business for myself for about seven years before I found myself back in the health care field as President of the Industrial Health Council.”

2.       What is your educational background?  (Certifications, degree, etc…)

“I have a BS in management/accounting from Auburn University (THE University in Alabama) with enough hours for MBA, but just didn’t pursue. I am a certified health care executive by the American College of HealthCare Executives.  I am also a certified occupational hearing conservationist, certified breath alcohol technician trainer, certified in respirator fit testing, certified trainer for advanced ergonomics and certified quick books pro advisor.”

3.       Where are you from originally?

“I was born in Plantersville, MS. But, I consider Birmingham to be my original hometown since we moved to Birmingham, Alabama when I was four years old.”

4.       What do you do in your free time?  (hobbies, etc.)

“I work with horses, teach Sunday school, sing in the choir and garden.”

5.       If you could give any advice to people who are deciding on a career in occupational health care, what would it be?

“Start early. The field is growing. Pick a specialty then broaden your scope some.”

6.       What do you consider your biggest challenge in your profession and how do you overcome it?

“Getting people to see the value in preventive health care. The best way is to site examples of how it has worked to save lives and reduce morbidity.  Thankfully, we have a great number of clients who are living proof.”