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Parkland Continues Searching For New CEO

BJ Austin
/
KERA News

Parkland Hospital in Dallas has struggled over the past two years to correct hundreds of deficiencies found during a critical inspection, and remains under federal monitoring. But board members say the public hospital has made the required corrections and they’re ready to resume the search for a permanent CEO.

The board is working with Korn/Ferry International to identify potential candidates, and is reaching out directly to leaders in the industry.

“This decision will affect the health and well-being of Dallas County residents for years to come so it is important that we get it right,” Debbie Branson, Board Chair said in a written statement. “While we are more intent on getting the right candidate than with specific timelines, I want to assure Dallas County residents that we are focused on getting this done as soon as possible.”

Longtime Parkland CEO Dr. Ron Anderson’s contract was not renewed after the public hospital failed the inspection.  Dr. Thomas Royer was hired as the first interim CEO to help steer the public hospital in a new and improved direction.  He was succeeded by Bob Smith, who currently holds the interim top job.

Smith, this week, gave board members a detailed look at significant progress made to improve safety and quality of care at Parkland, and areas where there is still work to be done.

Former KERA reporter BJ Austin spent more than 25 years in broadcast journalism, anchoring and reporting in Atlanta, New York, New Orleans and Dallas. Along the way, she covered Atlanta City Hall, the Georgia Legislature and the corruption trials of Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards.