CEO Named for New Health Authority in Digby-Shelburne-Yarmouth

HEALTH -CEO Named for New Health Authority in Digby-Shelburne- Yarmouth

Blaise MacNeil is the successful candidate for chief executive officer of the District Two Health Authority, covering Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth 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. MacNeil will assume responsibilities on May 1. Originally from Cape Breton, he moved to Ontario in 1994 to take his current position as CEO of the South Muskoka Memorial Hospital in Ontario. He received his master's degree in health administration from Dalhousie University in 1985 and in 1991 he became a certified management accountant. He also has a 1981 bachelor of education degree from St. Francis Xavier University.

"I am very pleased to hear of Mr. MacNeil's return to our province," said Health Minister Jamie Muir. "Mr. MacNeil has demonstrated strong leadership qualities in his former position and we are delighted to have him in this new district."

Ronald Horrocks, chair of the new district, was involved in the selection, as were representatives of medical staff, community health boards and the Department of Health.

The new authority is responsible for health care in Digby, Shelburne and Yarmouth counties. It 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.

The 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.