Hospital appoints permanent CEO

Interim leader will be remain permanently as head of area’s largest employer.

Community Mercy Health Partners announced its interim CEO will serve as the hospital network’s permanent leader starting Monday.

Paul Hiltz took over as interim CEO after former CEO and president Mark Wiener resigned at the end of last year. Spokesman Dave Lamb said the CMHP board conducted a national search but decided to appoint Hiltz after two months. CMHP did not interview anyone for the position, he said.

“I got up here and just saw the potential for what I felt was an exciting opportunity, and at the same time the board felt I’d be a good fit based on my experience and based on my interactions with people and the doctors,” Hiltz said.

CMHP is Clark County’s largest employer with 2,700 employees at two hospitals, various nursing homes and ancillary medical services.

Previously, Hiltz said he and Catholic Health Partners — the hospital system CMHP is a part of — were aiming to make Springfield Regional Medical Center a top 100 hospital based on Truven Health Researchers. Now, Hiltz said he plans on focusing on attracting talent to the hospital.

“The first thing I really want to work on is the team within the organization, really working on making Springfield Regional a fantastic place to work, especially for nurses,” Hiltz said.

Jim Bodenmiller, city manager, said the city and hospital will work closely on redeveloping the former hospital sites.

“ … We’ll be working closely with them on that after the demolition (of Community Hospital) is complete,” Bodenmiller said.

Hiltz most recently served as president and CEO of Mercy Health - Mt. Airy Hospital and led Mercy Health’s first Accountable Care Organization.

“I’ve had a chance to look at the future in that role, and I think Springfield Regional is well positioned for the Affordable Care Act because of the network we’re building and the hospital and doctors,” Hiltz said.

Bodenmiller said the city was eager to see Hiltz in the position of leadership because of his past experience as well as his willingness to be open to the community.

Hiltz “made every effort to go out and connect with the commmunitywhen he first came to town here,” Bodenmiller said. “He has a very open and welcoming personality. I think that’s important for the CEO of your hospital to connect with the community and to be approachable.”

Hiltz’s new title will be market leader and president.

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