Rob Brooks, executive vice president and COO of Chattanooga, Tenn.-based Erlanger Health System, has "separated from the organization," effective Aug. 20, according to a statement emailed to Becker's Hospital Review.
When asked about the nature of the separation, an Erlanger spokesperson directed Becker's Hospital Review to the statement provided:
"We sincerely wish Rob and his family much success as he transitions into the next phase of his career," said Kevin M. Spiegel, president and CEO of Erlanger Health System in the emailed statement. "In the very near future, I will be announcing an organizational structure to ensure ongoing alignment with Erlanger’s mission and strategic initiatives."
Mr. Brooks served as the health system's COO for six years, joining the organization in 2013. He previously was CEO of St. Cloud (Fla.) Regional Medical Center.
The reason for Mr. Brooks' departure is unclear, including whether his departure was connected to concerns over patient safety and care quality raised at the health system. In May, Erlanger's medical staff issued a vote of no confidence in several system executives. The system's 11-member Medical Executive Committee sent a letter to the chairman of the board of trustees that detailed operational issues and patient safety concerns.
A little over a month ago Pam Gordon, Erlanger's vice president of patient safety and quality resigned, stating in her resignation letter, "I can no longer in good faith and good conscience remain in my role."