Howard P. Kern began his role as president and CEO of Norfolk, Va.-based Sentara Healthcare March 4, according to a news release.
Here are five things to know about Mr. Kern.
1. He succeeds David L. Bernd, following his retirement.
2. As the new CEO, Mr. Kern leads a nonprofit system with 12 hospitals, four medical groups with more than 900 providers throughout Virginia and North Carolina, a health plan with more than 450,000 members, and life care and home care services.
3. Mr. Kern has identified three key areas of focus which will guide his tenure as CEO, including clinical performance improvement, innovation and growth and customer centricity, according to Sentara.
4. With support from Mr. Kern, Michael V. Gentry, current senior corporate vice president of Sentara, was appointed COO in January. Mr. Kern previously served in the COO role.
5. Mr. Kern spoke positively of Mr. Gentry's appointment. "Since joining Sentara in 2008, he,has provided important leadership in elevating our reputation for improving quality and patient safety," he said in a prepared statement. "He oversaw the construction and completion of Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, a 160-bed acute care facility [in Virginia Beach, Va.], and is responsible for Sentara Life Care Corporation which includes seven nursing centers, three assisted living facilities and PACE (Program for All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly). Mike is an exceptional leader, and I look forward to embarking on this journey with him."
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