In a letter addressed to his colleagues, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center CEO Terry Belmont explained his resignation and reflected on the hospital’s accomplishments in his two short years at the helm. “Having accomplished these goals,” Belmont writes, “my resignation allows me to pursue the next phase of my career.” Belmont’s resignation is effective January 15, 2009, and he will remain available through the end of March 2009.
“As I reflect on these past two years, I am proud of what and how much we have accomplished together. I believe it represents some of the best and most strategic work of an outstanding leadership group, including management, staff, physicians, board and volunteers. LBMMC and MCH are well positioned for a very bright and successful future through the work of an operationally-focused leadership team.”
The announcement was unexpected when it was announced a few days ago, especially in the wake of conflicting statements from hospital employees about the possibility of scaling back beds and services.
“Our MemorialCare leaders will soon be communicating their plan to engage governance and medical staff leadership in the process of selecting and naming my successor. Until my final days of service, I remain fully committed to leading our team and serving our medical centers to the best of my ability.”
The goals that Belmont mentioned he is happy to have achieved under his leadership are listed below:
• Plan for and successfully implement MC*21/Epic on our campus;
• Develop a structure and operating systems to ensure a financially sustainable future;
• Develop a master plan for LBMMC to ensure compliance with SB1953 and service to this community for the next 100 years;
• Build an effective, peak performing leadership team; and
• Develop a strong partnership with LBMMC/MCH physicians.
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor