After an extensive search process, the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital (PSFDH) Board of Directors is pleased to announce Mr. Michael Cohen has been appointed as the Hospital’s President and Chief Executive Officer effective November 2, 2021.

Mr. Cohen is a seasoned, energetic health care executive who leads with a patient centered perspective and strives for excellence in all areas. He brings with him a wide scope of knowledge in the areas of clinical services, strategic planning, hospital advocacy with community partners, information management, privacy, and decision support for the clinical and financial analysis unit. He demonstrates an understanding that rural hospitals play a prominent role as active members in the communities they serve.

For the past three years, Mr. Cohen has served as the President & CEO at Hôpital Glengarry Memorial Hospital located in Alexandria, Ontario.  Prior to that, he has held a variety of senior leadership positions at Queensway Carleton Hospital, (Ottawa, Ontario) such as: Vice President of Clinical Services, Information Management and Chief Privacy Officer; Director of Decision Support and Health Records/Transcription.  Mr. Cohen holds a Masters of Arts degree, (Sociology), University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Arts (Hon) degree from Queen’s University.

Mr. Cohen remarked, “I look forward to building upon the solid foundation already in place at the Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital.  The hospital’s reputation is admirable and I am excited to join the hospital team.” 

Ms. Nancy Shaw, Interim President & CEO and Vice President, Patient Care Services/CNE stated “Michael is joining an engaged and dedicated team who will welcome him and embrace the change.  His understanding of rural hospitals and scope of experience will be helpful to guide him through our organization.” She added, “his background will enhance the Senior Leadership Team as we move forward with many projects and initiatives in the coming months.”

The PSFDH Board of Directors acknowledges Ms. Shaw for stepping into the interim role as the hospital President & CEO while the Board conducted the formal recruitment process.  “Her dedication to the organization is second to none. We know that Michael will appreciate her breadth of organizational and community knowledge,” stated Gardner Church, Chair, PSFDH Board of Directors.

Gardner Church, Chair, PSFDH Board of Directors added that, “Michael has proven his ability to move forward initiatives and engage groups.  He is joining our organization at a time where we continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic and embarking on significant projects such as the upcoming Accreditation Canada survey and renewal of the organization’s Strategic Plan.”  He added, “the Board of Directors is pleased that Michael will be taking the lead of our hospital to guide us through the next steps in the new integrated health system.”

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