Fallout from the latest failed attempt to merge the state’s two largest health care systems continues.
Care New England Health System CEO and President Dr. James E. Fanale on May 11 said he will retire early next year. His counterpart at the larger Lifespan Corp., Dr. Timothy J. Babineau, in April said he’ll step down at the end of this month and continue as a consultant through September.
Dr. Babineau spoke openly about the challenges facing Lifespan at PBN’s Spring 2022 Health Care Summit. He said it would take “years to rebuild” the pandemic-ravaged health system.
Both health systems face significant staffing shortages.
And CNE is even more fiscally challenged than Lifespan. CNE has been weighing acquisition offers since February, after Attorney General Peter F. Neronha denied their latest merger attempt.
New leadership may bring fresh perspective to the long-term challenges. But replenishing and reenergizing their workforces can’t wait, which leaders of both systems are acutely aware of.