CEO Named for New District Health Authority in Lunenburg-Queens

HEALTH -CEO Named for New District Health Authority in Lunenburg- Queens

Jim Merkley is the successful candidate for CEO of the new District One Health Authority in Lunenburg and Queens counties.

The Nova Scotia government created nine district health boards last year as a new way of administering health care in the province. The boards now are hiring their chief executive officers.

Mr. Merkley will assume his new duties Feb. 26. He has 24 years experience in hospital administration, including nine years in his current position as president of the Brockville, Ont., General Hospital. He has a 1977 master's degree in health administration from the University of Ottawa and a 1975 BA from Queen's University.

"I am looking forward to Mr. Merkley's arrival at the end of February," said Health Minister Jamie Muir. "Mr. Merkley brings with him a proven track record of excellence in health administration and his experience will be a tremendous asset to the communities he serves."

Authority chair Roxanna Smith was involved in the selection, as were representatives of medical staff, community health boards and the Department of Health.

The new authority, responsible for health care in Lunenburg and Queens counties, is smaller than the former Western Regional Health Board. District health authorities are legislated to be accountable -- both to their communities and to the Department of Health -- for their decisions and spending.

District health authorities will be responsible for maximizing resources and integrating parts of the health delivery system, including disease prevention and health promotion, diagnostic treatment, adult acute care, continuing care, public health, mental health and addiction services.