Q&A with Coplin Health Systems’ Newest COO, Tracy Martin

Coplin Health Systems is proud to welcome Tracy Martin as our new Chief Operating Officer. With a strong background in healthcare and organizational leadership, Tracy brings the perfect blend of knowledge and experience to push our mission forward. Passionate about expanding access to quality care in rural West Virginia, Tracy is committed to ensuring our staff, patients, and communities receive the very best support.

We sat down with Tracy to learn more about her journey in healthcare, what she hopes to accomplish, and how she chooses to unwind.

Q: What inspired you to join Coplin Health Systems, and what do you hope to achieve in your role as COO?

Tracy Martin: I was inspired to join because I have spent 18 years leading multi-site healthcare operations across West Virginia, and I’ve seen the challenges that underserved communities face. This role allows me to apply that experience in a mission-driven organization where improving access and outcomes is the priority.

Q: Can you share a bit about your background and experience?

TM: I bring 18+ years of leadership experience in healthcare operations, overseeing both clinical and business functions across multiple sites in West Virginia. My background in nursing as well as management gives me a broad understanding of the complexities of delivering care across diverse communities. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on patient and employee satisfaction, growing volume, and strengthening financial stewardship.

Q: What from your background or experience has prepared you for taking on the COO role?

TM: I feel well-prepared for the COO role because of my 18+ years leading operations across multi-site healthcare facilities, where I had full oversight of both clinical and business operations. That combination of multi-site leadership, financial stewardship, and commitment to community-centered care has given me the tools and perspective to step into the COO role.

Q:  Of our mission statement, vision, or core values, what speaks the most to you? What are you most excited about?

TM: What speaks to me most is the focus on serving the health and wellness needs of the community. Of the core values, access and quality resonate most with me because ensuring care is both reachable and excellent is what truly makes a difference in people’s lives.

Q: What do you think sets Coplin Health Systems apart from other health organizations, and how can we build on those strengths?

TM: What sets this organization apart is its unwavering focus on community impact over profit. Many healthcare organizations talk about patient care, but here the mission is lived out in real, tangible ways. By prioritizing access, committing to quality even where resources are limited, and valuing people as more than patients—but as neighbors—we truly stand apart.

Q: Tell us about your leadership style. What values do you prioritize, and how do you embody those in your daily work?

TM: My leadership style is best described as servant. By putting people first, no matter if it is staff or patients, or the community in general, I have seen how trust grows, morale strengthens, and positive results follow. I measure my success as a leader by how well my teams thrive and how effectively we serve our mission.

Q: How do you motivate and inspire your team, and what strategies do you use to try to achieve results?

TM: I motivate my team by connecting their daily work back to the mission. When they can see the difference it makes in patients’ lives, they feel inspired. I make it a point to celebrate successes, recognize contributions, and listen to their ideas so they know they are valued. At the same time, I drive results by setting clear, measurable goals and using data to track progress. I hold teams accountable but also give them the support and resources they need to succeed.

Q: What might surprise people to know about you?

TM: I love to hunt, fish, and be outdoors. It’s a big part of how I recharge. Being outdoors teaches patience, focus, and respect for the environment, which carries over in my leadership style. It keeps me grounded and connected to the community and the land here in West Virginia. 

Q:  Anything else you’d like to share?

TM: At the end of the day, what inspires me about this opportunity is the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. As COO, my commitment is to support our team’s strengths and operations and ensure that every person in our community has access to high-quality care. I believe this organization is uniquely positioned to do that. I’m honored I have the chance to serve and lead alongside such a dedicated team.

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Tracy and her love for serving our rural West Virginia communities.