OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — July 29, 2026 — Primary Health Partners (PHP), Oklahoma’s largest Direct Primary Care provider, names Franklin Theelen as Vice President of Human Resources. In this leadership role, Theelen will help guide people strategy, culture, and workforce development across the organization’s growing Direct Primary Care network.
Theelen brings more than 20 years of human resources experience, with leadership background in both the Netherlands and the United States. He earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Resource Management from Hanze University of Applied Sciences and a Master of Business Administration in Management and Operations from Western Governors University. Theelen’s career began in the Royal Netherlands Army, where he developed a people-centered approach to leadership that continues to shape his work today. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Resource Management from Hanze University and a Master of Business Administration in Management and Operations from Western Governors University. At Primary Health Partners, he brings a philosophy grounded in humility, teamwork, and open communication.
“I was drawn to Primary Health Partners because they truly care about people, and they show it in everything they do,” said Franklin Theelen, Vice President of Human Resources at Primary Health Partners. “There is no micromanagement, the benefits are excellent, and the culture is outstanding. I believe in staying humble and kind, listening to people, and building a strong team environment where everyone can do their best work.”
Theelen’s experience in both European and American workplace cultures has given him a unique perspective on what makes an organization strong. He said he values the team-oriented environment at PHP and believes it reflects the kind of culture that supports both employee well-being and organizational success.
“Franklin brings a deep commitment to people, culture, and thoughtful leadership,” said Robert Lockwood, MD, CEO of Primary Health Partners. “As PHP continues to grow, his experience and values will help strengthen the employee experience and support the kind of team-based culture that defines our organization. We’re excited to welcome him to the leadership team.”
Primary Health Partners is committed to providing accessible, relationship-based care for patients while building a supportive environment for employees and providers. The addition of Franklin Theelen as Vice President of Human Resources further strengthens the company’s leadership team as it continues to expand its mission across Oklahoma.
For more information about Primary Health Partners, visit https://primary-healthpartners.com/
About Primary Health Partners
Founded in 2016, Primary Health Partners is Oklahoma’s largest Direct Primary Care provider, with 11 locations and 30+ PHP providers serving patients, families, and more than 250 companies. Through affiliate partnerships, PHP also provides access to Direct Primary Care providers in 46 states.
Primary Health Partners uses a membership-based model designed to remove many of the barriers associated with traditional insurance. Members receive high-quality, accessible care, shorter wait times, direct communication with their providers, and a focus on lasting doctor-patient relationships.
PHP’s mission is to deliver healthcare the way it should be: simple, patient-centered, and tech-enabled.
Media Contact:
Britt C. Smith, Marketing Director
britt.smith@phpdpc.com
https://primary-healthpartners.com/
