River Valley Hospital’s board members terminated CEO Terry Vanderhoof’s contract Wednesday night.

Thursday, December 21, 2000

River Valley Hospital’s board members terminated CEO Terry Vanderhoof’s contract Wednesday night.

Dr. John D. Ross was named interim CEO.

"In the past few days, we have seen a tremendous show of support from everyone in the community," board member Jim Weber said. "After careful consideration of our options, we decided that the change in administration was necessary to turn things around.

Meanwhile, county officials formed a committee Wednesday to work with River Valley Health System leaders on improving the hospital’s financial condition – a move meant to save 450 hospital jobs.

"It will help them and give us information," commissioner Paul Herrell said.

Retired OUSC dean Dr. Bill Dingus will head the committee.

"He will appoint ever how many he wants and they’ll go in there and see what needs to be done," Herrell said, adding the committee will look at hospital finances.

"It’s a plus for the hospital and us."

The move comes after several meetings between hospital board members, commissioners, city council members and others.

A Wednesday morning meeting included state legislators Rep. John Carey and Rep. Bill Ogg, as well as U.S. Rep. Ted Strickland, who also were asked to assist RVHS.

"I think it was a sobering meeting," Strickland said. "We were there to listen to see what, if anything, we can do."

The congressman said he will take a supportive role in Washington, D.C., but can offer no immediate financial help.

"It’s my understanding that the hospital may be in debt to the USDA several million dollars," he said. "I will be happy to talk to them check into postponing USDA obligations. That’s short term It doesn’t speak to the long-term viability of the hospital."

Strickland suggested the long-term issue will become how to make the hospital prosper, whether through service changes or affiliation or other means.