University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque appointed Michael Chicarelli, DNP, RN, interim CEO. He succeeds Steve McKernan, who is retiring Oct. 1.
Mr. Chicarelli is the hospital's administrator of professional services. In this role, he oversaw most of the non-nursing departments at UNM Hospital. He worked at the hospital since 1997, serving in a number of roles, including executive director of emergency services and assistant chief nursing officer.
Mr. Chicarelli, a board-certified emergency nurse, earned his doctorate of nursing practice degree at UNM's College of Nursing in Albuquerque.
"Having worked in the trenches at UNM Hospital for so many years, Mike has a keen understanding of the many levels of operation required to sustain the quality of patient care and employee needs," said Sheena Ferguson, UNM Hospital's chief nursing officer.