Lakeridge Health appoints new CEO

OSHAWA – Following an extensive national search, the Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Cynthia Davis (pictured) to the position of president and CEO at Lakeridge Health, effective January 4, 2021. Ms. Davis is currently the president and CEO at Western Health, a leading regional health authority in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).

Prior to joining Western Health, Ms. Davis held senior leadership and clinical positions at St. Mary’s General Hospital in Kitchener, and St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. She holds a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) from Dalhousie University, a Master of Science from the University of Toronto and is completing her PhD studies at the University of New Brunswick.

“Ms. Davis is a highly respected, collaborative leader with an impressive track record of driving transformational change within an integrated, complex health system,” said Sharon Cochran, chair, Lakeridge Health Board of Trustees.

“She brings the right mix of leadership skills, clinical and operational expertise, an impeccable reputation among physicians and her clinical peers, and a passion for patient-centred care and community to ensure Lakeridge Health continues to respond to the growing needs within Durham Region.”

Ms. Davis’s professional efforts have focused on aligning programs and services within an integrated system that effectively break down barriers for diverse patient populations, as well as strengthening partnerships with physicians, patients, families, staff, community leaders, and donors to ensure the delivery of high quality care and the best possible patient experience.

In her role as CEO at Western Health, Ms. Davis’s accomplishments include:

• Established primary healthcare clinics with collaborative teams to enhance primary care services in the region;
• Enhanced mental health promotion and addictions prevention based on best practices, including standardizing care for people in crisis presenting to EDs;
• Extensive work with provincial and national collaboration projects related to frailty, aging populations at risk and transition points in care, and integrated service models in rehabilitation and palliative care;
• Oversight for building commencement of the new Regional Acute Care Hospital and the opening of a new long-term care facility in Corner Brook; and
• Introduced multiple community and regional advisory councils in keeping with the provincial priority for partnership and engagement.

“I am excited for this tremendous opportunity to work with the physicians, staff, community partners and everyone who is part of Lakeridge Health,” said Ms. Davis. “Together we will continue the momentum toward building a health system that meets the needs of Durham Region. I look forward to joining the team and being a part of this transformational change.”

During Ms. Davis’s 14-year tenure at Western Health she also served as vice president of Patient Services and chief nursing officer, and regional director of Clinical Effectiveness.

“Along with making this exciting announcement, the Board of Trustees wants to recognize and thank Interim president and CEO, Susan deRyk, for her tireless efforts to keep Lakeridge Health moving forward during this interim period,” said Ms. Cochran.

“Susan’s leadership during this challenging time of historic global uncertainty in healthcare is to be commended. Through this leadership Lakeridge Health continues to be seen as a leader in healthcare.” Ms. deRyk will continue as Interim president and CEO until the end of 2020 when she will resume her position as EVP and chief transformation officer.

About Lakeridge Health
Lakeridge Health is Durham Region’s acute care provider, offering one of the broadest and most comprehensive ranges of acute care services in the province. With five hospitals, four Emergency Departments, a residential treatment centre and more than a dozen community healthcare locations, Lakeridge Health is dedicated to the highest standard of care and best patient experience. Lakeridge Health is home to R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre, Pinewood Centre for addictions and mental health, and The Shoulder Centre, as well regional eye care, mental health and nephrology services. Lakeridge Health is proud of its vision for One System. Best Health.