Hospital CEO, VP of patient care resign

Late Friday afternoon, Nevada Regional Medical Center announced the resignations of CEO Robert Ohlen and Bill Rhoads, vice president for patient care. "These changes are being made in order to address diminishing levels of communication within senior management," said Phil Vinyard, who chairs the hospital's board of directors. "The board of directors as a whole felt the importance of making this change in leadership at this time to ensure a more effective executive team to carry out the strategic directives to the hospital, especially as we move in the new building." A press release the hospital, its board of directors, medical staff and employees also take this opportunity to thank these individuals for their years of dedicated service to the hospital and the community. During Ohlen's tenure as CEO, the health system realized considerable growth in patient services and new clinical programs, as well as improved financial stability. The board recognized Ohlen for his efforts to increase physician resources for the community and for developing and opening the new patient tower earlier this year. Craig R. Cudworth, CHE, has been named interim Chief Executive Officer. Cudworth has served as chief executive officer of several small and mid-size hospitals managed by Quorum Health Resources, which manages NMRC. Cudworth has served in this capacity at De Queen Regional Medical Center, Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center and Riverside Medical Center, among others. Cudworth received his bachelor of science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and his Master's of Health Administration degree from the Medical College of Virginia, both in Richmond, Virginia. He is a diplomat of the American College of Healthcare Executives. According to the release, Cudworth looks forward to working with all the members of the NRMC family to ensure continues success and excellence. The medical center expects to name an interim chief nursing officer shortly. A search will commence immediately to ensure a successful transition and replacement for both of these key positions. Vinyard said the hospital will conduct a national, comprehensive search for a new CEO but declined to comment further on the resignations as personnel matters are confidential. Ohlen and Rhoads could not be reached for comment.