Cairns health service name new chief executive
Keeping finances in check will be the first order of business for new Cairns Hinterland Hospital and Health Service's chief executive.
The former Chief Executive of Mackay Hospital has been appointed to run the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service [CHHHS].
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Administrator Terry Mehan announced the permanent appointment of Clare Douglas to the position of Chief Executive of the health service this week.
Ms Douglas was appointed as Interim Chief Executive in May 2016.
CHHHS administrator Terry Mehan says he is confident Ms Douglas can address the projected $80 million budget blowout that led to the board’s resignation in September.
“Clare has provided stability and leadership through a difficult time for the Health Service,
ensuring the continuity of high quality patient care and services, all the while developing a
financial recovery plan that has seen our projected deficit reduce to $52 million this financial
year,” Mr Mehan says.
“What has impressed me the most about Clare is her ability to engage staff at all levels within
the organisation.
“At the same time she has proven to be a steady hand, taking a leading role in developing the necessary strategies to achieve the organisation’s long term financial stability.
“I’m looking forward to working with Clare to continue putting patients and people first in the
Cairns and Hinterland region.”
Ms Douglas says she is proud to be appointed to the position of Chief Executive and was working to progress the Health Service’s ‘seven-point plan’ in the coming months.
“Together with Terry and our dedicated staff, I am looking forward to continuing to provide the region with outstanding patient services and care while working to establish a sustainable future for the Health Service,” Ms Douglas says.
