PULLMAN, WA — Pullman Regional Hospital has hired Craig Carstens, MHPA, as its new chief financial officer, according to a press release issued by the hospital. Carstens succeeds Steve Febus, who served in the role for more than 30 years.

Carstens brings more than 15 years of financial leadership experience in hospital and clinical settings, including work with critical access hospitals and multi-site rural health systems. Most recently, he served as chief financial officer, chief information officer, and compliance officer at Floyd County Medical Center in Charles City, Iowa, where he oversaw strategic financial planning, capital investments, and revenue cycle management.

His previous experience also includes serving as CFO at Osceola Regional Health Center and as director of financial operations at Mercy Medical Center.

Carstens holds a Master of Health Policy and Administration from Washington State University and a bachelor’s degree in business economics with a minor in accounting from South Dakota State University. Hospital officials said his background includes a focus on using data and analytics to support financial decision-making and operational efficiency.

“Craig brings strong educational credentials, extensive experience, and deep financial acumen across multiple healthcare organizations, with a particularly strong background in rural healthcare,” said Matt Forge, CEO of Pullman Regional Hospital, in a written statement.

As CFO, Carstens will oversee the hospital’s financial strategy and operations, including resource management to support clinical services, facility development, and long-term sustainability.

Carstens is scheduled to officially begin his role on January 12, 2026. The hospital reported that a national search for the position attracted more than 55 qualified applicants.