SASKATOON – The deputy minister responsible for Lean has been hired to run the Saskatoon Health Region. Dan Florizone, who is also the deputy education minister, will take over as president and CEO on Jan. 5, 2015.
Jim Rhode, chair of the regional health authority board, said a factor in the hiring was Florizone’s experience with Lean.
“We need someone … who has significant knowledge in a Lean-based management system so we can continue to move forward with sustainable, transformational change,” said Rhode in a release.
“We know with Mr. Florizone’s leadership through Patient First and his commitment to Lean, he will be dedicated to the system-wide transformation that is taking place within health care across our province.”
Lean is the province’s $40-million, four year cost-cutting program to look at ways to reduce spending and improve efficiencies in health care. The program has come under attack by the Opposition NDP, who say it ignores complaints from front-line health workers.
Read more: Saskatchewan NDP criticizes Lean program
Nurses in the province have also criticized Lean.
Florizone says he is looking forward to the challenges facing him as health care is revolutionized in Saskatchewan.
“I know there are opportunities, successes and challenges throughout the region,” said Florizone. “I plan to visit every site and to meet with patients, residents, clients, families, care providers and leaders.
“I want to hear, from their perspective, on where we are at today, review their progress and talk about their vision for the future.”
The SHR began the search for a new president and CEO after the board asked Maura Davies to step down from the position effective Dec. 1.
Jackie Mann, vice president of integrated health services, will act as the interim president and CEO from Dec. 1 until Florizone assumes his duties.
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