Cathy Yablonski Named President of Outer Banks Health

Greenville, N.C. – ECU Health has appointed Cathy Yablonski as the new president of Outer Banks Health, effective April 20, 2026, following a national search.^{1, 2} Yablonski brings over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience to the role.

Extensive Healthcare Leadership Background

Yablonski most recently served as senior vice president and chief ambulatory operations officer for Mary Washington Healthcare in Fredericksburg, Virginia, overseeing a team of more than 1,200 members.¹ Prior to that, she was the chief executive officer of Stafford Hospital, a community hospital within the Mary Washington Healthcare system, for 14 years.¹

Commitment to Community and Collaboration

“I am deeply honored to join the Outer Banks Health team,” Yablonski said. “From the extremely beginning, I was struck by the health system’s profound dedication to the community it serves. I’m eager to collaborate with ECU Health and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare to strengthen and expand the care we provide to both year-round residents and the visitors who produce the Outer Banks such a special place.”¹

Leadership Perspectives

Van Smith, president of ECU Health Community Hospitals, emphasized Yablonski’s leadership qualities, stating, “Cathy is a relationship-driven, patient-centered leader with a deep commitment to quality, operational excellence and community health. Her experience and leadership style align seamlessly with ECU Health’s mission and values. I have full confidence she will continue to advance Outer Banks Health’s reputation of providing outstanding care.”¹

Myra L. Bone, chair of the Outer Banks Health Board, added, “Cathy is joining an incredible team and a local community that takes great pride in having high-quality care available here in the Outer Banks. Her collaborative spirit and strong commitment to local partnerships make her an exceptional fit for this role. We’re confident she will continue to strengthen our relationships across Dare County and with community leaders as we work together to support the health and well-being of the Outer Banks.”¹

Transition of Leadership

Yablonski’s appointment follows the retirement of Ronnie Sloan, who concluded his distinguished career on April 1, 2026.¹ Van Smith served as interim president of Outer Banks Health until Yablonski’s official start date on April 20, 2026.¹

About Outer Banks Health

Outer Banks Health operates as a private, not-for-profit health system.⁴ The hospital’s management and subsidiaries are overseen by a voluntary Board of Directors comprised of 10 members, with six appointed by ECU Health and four by Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.⁴ The health system is committed to providing high-quality care to residents and visitors, and continues to focus on expanding essential services.^{3, 4}

1. ECU Health names Cathy Yablonski next president of Outer Banks Health – MSN
2. ECU Health has named Cathy Yablonski the new president of Outer Banks…
3. Outer Banks Health continues to reduce the breast cancer mortality rate…
4. Voluntary Board of Directors at OBH – Outer Banks Health