Entrance of JFL North.
The Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center announced today the resignation of its Chief Executive Officer, Douglas Koch, in what the hospital said was a tenure marked by "numerous significant milestones." His resignation comes on the heels of the V.I. Water and Power Authority's announcement that CEO Andrew Smith's last day at WAPA will be June 30th.
The hospital said Koch resigned to "move closer to his family in the Midwest," and that plans are afoot to appoint an interim CEO to ensure a smooth transition. Meanwhile, JFL will begin the search for a permanent replacement, according to hospital officials. Koch has also committed to aiding in the transitional process over the coming months to minimize disruptions in the hospital's operations.
JFL issued a rosy statement about Koch's tenure at the struggling hospital, including overseeing the transition to the new JFL North facility post-hurricane damage.
JFL CEO Douglas Koch (Credit: JFL)
"One of the most notable [achievements] is the successful transition of patient care services from the hurricane-damaged JFL Main to the new JFL North facility, a feat that we can all be proud of," the hospital's statement noted.
Chris Finch, chairman of the JFL Board and the Territorial Hospital Board of Directors, expressed his regret over Koch's departure. "We are very disappointed to get this news. We have looked forward to working with Doug Koch for years to come as we stabilize and expand services and build and open a new JFLH," Finch said.
The hospital has been able to hire permanent nursing staff and reduce reliance on temporary, oftentimes expensive traveling nurses — an accomplish the statement credits to Koch. Hospital services were also said to have been extended under the resigning CEO's leadership, along with strengthening of the leadership team, according to the statement.
"CEO Koch recently received a stellar personnel evaluation from board members," Finch added.
Koch extended his gratitude to Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the Virgin Islands Legislature, the hospital board of directors, the Territorial Hospital Redevelopment Team, the JFL medical staff, and all employees of Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center.
"We understand his personal reasons for leaving, and we all wish him well,” Finch concluded, acknowledging Koch’s personal decision to relocate.
