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March 11, 2008

Reihle named interim chief medical officer; Love transitions to HRMC quality Consultant

Dr. Robert A. Reihle Jr. (pronounced really) has been named interim chief medical officer at Haywood Regional Medical Center, replacing Dr. David Love, hospital officials announced today.

Love will serve as quality consultant as the hospital moves into the recovery phase of its effort to regain Medicare and Medicaid certification.

“We are very pleased that a person of Dr. Reihle’s credentials and experience is on board to lead our efforts to enhance patient care at HRMC,” said Al Byers, chief executive officer. “HRMC appreciates the dedication and commitment that Dr. Love has brought to this position over the last decade and we are equally pleased that we will be able to continue to rely on his expertise as we move forward,” he said.

Part of the Compass Group team, Reihle has more than 25 years experience in the healthcare field. For the last 18 years, he was worked as medical director for hospitals, healthcare systems and insurance providers.

Most recently, Reihle has served as vice president and chief medical officer for the 513-bed Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System, where he guided strategy for system-wide clinical care delivery, quality care improvements and medical staff relations.

Reihle completed his medical degree at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons and holds a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Yale University.
     
HRMC and the Compass Group are also implementing a number of other initiatives as they work to finalize the corrective action plan that addresses the specific concerns raised by CMS, including procedures, policies and training activities in the areas of compliance, nursing, human resources and the emergency department.

Reihle joins other members of the Compass Group who are serving in key interim leadership roles including Krystina Candelaria, chief nursing officer; Howard Lull, Emergency Department director; Luann Prephan, compliance evaluator; and Edward J. McLaughlin, human resources.

HRMC plans to present its plan of action to correct the identified deficiencies to the Haywood County Board of Commissioners Friday. The hospital announced Monday that its goal is to be prepared for CMS to conduct a recertification survey by March 31.

“The HRMC board and administration are committed to providing the highest level of medical care for our community and fully restoring our provider services,” Byers said. “The actions we are taking and the hard work our administration, health care providers and staff are doing demonstrates our commitment to make that happen,” he said.