The president and CEO of two Lewiston-based Central Maine Healthcare hospitals resigned Aug. 1 — one day after CMHC's board voiced their support for system CEO Jeff Brickman, the Portland Press Herald reports.
R. David Frum served as president and CEO of Bridgton (Maine) Hospital since 2010 and head of Rumford (Maine) Hospital since 2011, according to the report.
CMHC confirmed Mr. Frum's resignation Aug. 6 in a prepared statement to Becker's Hospital Review: "David Frum submitted his resignation as President of Bridgton Hospital and Rumford Hospital on August 1. After 8 years of faithful service to BH and RH and their respective communities, David leaves with a great sense of accomplishment and the respect of many throughout the organization for his leadership and dedication."
Mr. Frum's resignation comes after medical staff at all three of the system's hospitals voted no confidence in Mr. Brickman in July. Staffers throughout the health system told the Portland Press Herald they recognize the need for change, but disagree with Mr. Brickman's management style and voiced concern about the system's ongoing financial issues and cuts in services. In an Aug. 1 letter to staff, CMHC Board Chairwoman Deborah Avasthi affirmed the board's support of Mr. Brickman and his plans for the system.
After the vote at Rumford Hospital, one physician told the publication the no-confidence vote in Mr. Brickman did not extend to Mr. Frum, as staff do not blame him for the changes and challenges the system faces. The physician said the staff appreciates Mr. Frum's leadership.
CHMC also confirmed the resignation of another executive to Becker's. Stacy Goldsholl, MD, chief physician executive for CMHC, resigned before the board's July 31 meeting, during which they issued their support for Mr. Brickman. The health system said it is working to find a full-time replacement for Ms. Goldsholl.
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