* Ganderton stays on as CEO

Ecker says, “In January 2007 we brought Rik in on a short-term basis to launch an urgently needed turnaround plan for our hospital. Through his leadership RVHS has returned to financial stability, completed two significant capital expansions, attracted more than 50 doctors, improved wait times and launched extensive reforms to improve the quality of care for our communities. He has built a strong foundation for future success.”

She adds, “When his term came to an end, the Board of Directors launched an extensive search to select a leader who could provide a new strategic vision to build on this foundation. The board's search committee had the privilege of meeting many strong candidates. But, when we considered the significant economic challenges we faced and the progress we had made under Rik's leadership, the board decided to explore the possibility of having Rik continue as our CEO. I am pleased to announce that those discussions were successful.”

Ganderton says, “It's my pleasure to continue as CEO and build on the progress we have made in improving quality and accountability. Our team of Board of Directors, physicians and staff have achieved great success in the last three years and have overcome many challenges. We have grown as a team and so has my personal commitment to Rouge Valley Health System.”

He adds, “We are now in a recessionary fiscal environment that is presenting all hospitals with big challenges about how to most effectively spend limited tax dollars. Thankfully, our deficit elimination plan, which started two and a half year ago, has placed us in a better position to weather this current economic climate. I look forward to future successes for our patients and our communities as we continue to work closely as a team.”

-Rouge Valley Health System (RVHS) - The best at what we do.-

RVHS is an excellent acute care community hospital with many programs, including 24/7/365 emergency, cardiac care and mental health. Rouge Valley consists of several health sites, including two community hospital campuses: Rouge Valley Centenary in east Toronto; and Rouge Valley Ajax and Pickering in west Durham. Together, a team of physicians (224 general practitioners and 325 specialists), 1,000 nurses and many other professionals care for a broad spectrum of health conditions. Working in consultation and partnership with community members, other hospitals, health care organizations, the Central East Local Health Integration Network and the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Rouge Valley continues to improve its programs and cater to the needs of the growing communities of east Toronto, Ajax, Pickering and Whitby.

Contact

David Brazeau

Director

Public Affairs and Community Relations

Rouge Valley Health System

(647) 294-8885

dbrazeau@rougevalley.ca