Larry Van Der Wege is resigning from his role as administrator of Lindsborg (Kan.) Community Hospital.
Mr. Van Der Wege submitted his resignation Aug. 8 to Salina (Kan.) Regional Health Center CEO Joel Phelps and Lindsborg Community Hospital Board Chair Chuck Oleen.
"A hospital CEO/administration position is a 24/7 role if one cares as they should for the health and well-being of their organization and the people they serve," Mr. Van Der Wege told Becker's via email. "It is also very personal, especially in a small community.
"When things go well, it is so meaningful because of how personal it is, as they are often friends, neighbors, and people one will likely encounter in the store. On occasion, things don't go as well as one would like, and it's very personal then, too. Fortunately, the positives have far exceeded the more difficult times. Hopefully, I have demonstrated the commitment this organization and community deserve."
Mr. Van Der Wege has been at Lindsborg Community Hospital for more than 26 years, almost 17 of them in the top leadership role. His title was CEO before the hospital's affiliation with Salina Regional Health Center. It was then that he took the title of administrator. He will continue his role until mid-November and has accepted a new position as director of regulatory affairs and preparedness with the Kansas Hospital Association. As yet, a successor has not been named.
"I am excited for this new chapter, where I can provide service to hospitals and providers across the state, broadening the service area that I will care for," said Mr. Van Der Wege. "Hopefully, my experience can be a resource for other leaders in healthcare, especially newer ones who are willing to take on that 24/7 role in caring for their communities and organizations."