Yale New Haven Health System has ousted CEO Chris O’Connor, a move that came as a shock to many in the state’s healthcare sector. O’Connor, who was born and raised in New Haven, was a skilled leader who was well liked and widely respected.

Financial Woes and Failed Hospital Deal

The health system’s financial recovery from COVID has been sluggish, and a failed bid to buy the hospitals formerly owned by Prospect Medical Holdings had plagued O’Connor’s tenure. Multiple industry sources said the debacle led to the dismissal of two YNHHS executives last fall.

State Comptroller Sean Scanlon, who works closely with hospitals across the state, said he was surprised by the announcement. “Chris is a tremendous guy and a tremendous leader,” Scanlon said. State Sen. Saud Anwar, a physician who serves as co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, acknowledged the challenges today’s industry leaders are grappling with.

Yale New Haven Health’s performance over the last several years has mostly outpaced the average health system in the state, but its financial performance has lagged behind its biggest competitor, Hartford HealthCare. The failed deal to acquire three Connecticut hospitals from Prospect Medical Holdings also plagued O’Connor’s tenure as CEO.

Future of Yale New Haven Health

With O’Connor’s departure, Yale New Haven Health’s current president, Pamela Sutton-Wallace, has been appointed acting CEO. The board of trustees will conduct a national search for a permanent replacement over the next several months.

Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.