South Jersey Healthcare - News Archives - 2005 -
[Cached Version]
Published on: 5/4/2005
Last Visited: 2/11/2007
Gary F. Simmerman was elected chairman of the Health System Board and Bruno A. Basile was elected chairman of the Hospital Board.
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Just minutes after being voted in, Simmerman publicly thanked the outgoing chairmen of the System and Hospital boards for their years of exemplary leadership to the health system.
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The two boards have different, yet complimentary responsibilities, Simmerman explained.The Hospital Board of Trustees is primarily concerned with the day-to-day operations of the hospitals, including quality of care and patient satisfaction.The System Board is responsible for the overall strategic plan for all SJH services, including its hospitals; Foundation; Community Services; finances; and long-term planning.SJH Trustees are community volunteers elected to serve three-year terms.
"We have a strong, diverse group of trustees who devote a lot of time and effort because they are committed to the health and well-being of the communities we serve," said Simmerman."As trustees, we must do whatever it takes to provide quality care for the people in our market area.This requires a good strategic plan and effective communications."
Simmerman has spent most of his life in the Bridgeton area, where he has been active professionally and civically.In 1997, he retired from his position as president and CEO of United Jersey Bank South, after a long and successful career in the banking industry.He was previously a Cumberland County Freeholder and is currently the county's treasurer, a position he has held since 1988.
As chairman of the System Board, Simmerman sees the development of short- and long-term strategic plans as top priorities for the organization.Communication with physicians, staff, senior management and the public will be crucial to the plan's development, emphasized Simmerman.
"Clinical quality and customer service must continue to be top priorities throughout our organization," said Simmerman."To be successful, it is very important that communication and cooperation between our board members and physicians be encouraged and cultivated.The same is true for our communities, our employees and the system's senior management team.
"As the region grows and demands change, the health system must be proactive in meeting the expanding needs of local residents," Simmerman added.
Simmerman was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 1981.During his 24 years of service to the health system, he has held leadership positions on both the Hospital Board and System Board of Trustees.He previously served as vice chairman of the System Board and has chaired the Finance Committee and Governance Committee.
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I am confident that Gary and Bruno will continue the tradition of exemplary leadership built by their predecessors."
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Chairman: Gary F. Simmerman*