Hospital president to retire

RUMFORD -- John Welsh has announced his retirement as president of Rumford Hospital, effective July 1, after 23 years of service to the Rumford area community.

It's been a tough decision for me -- not whether or not to retire or where to spend my retirement -- but what would be the best time to leave," noted Welsh, adding, "I don't think there could me a better time than now."

That's because he said Rumford Hospital is in great shape. "We have a great medical staff, a nursing staff that can't be beat and support services staff that go above and beyond every day. One of the advantages of being part of a system is that there are ample resources available to make certain that the transition is a smooth one."

"When I came to Maine and Rumford Hospital 23 years ago, it was with the long range plan of retiring in Maine to our multi-generational family homestead. Although through the years the homestead has been a great weekend place, it will now become Becky's and my home," he said.

"I am very proud of our hospital and its staff. I am proud of what we do for our community every day. I am proud that our community has come to admire and value this hospital," said Welsh. "In many ways and for many reasons, it will be difficult to leave, but I truly believe I am leaving Rumford Hospital in the best possible hands."

Jolan Ippolito, chairperson of the hospital's Board of Trustees, said, "John has done an outstanding job as the leader of Rumford Hospital. Our hospital is in a much better place today than it was two decades ago. It is one of Rumford's greatest assets. Everyone should be proud of Rumford Hospital for the quality patient care and our compassionate staff. We have more resources available locally than most people can imagine."

Peter Chalke, Central Maine Healthcare president and CEO, said he has worked with Welsh since 1988. "He is always the steady hand at the helm. He skillfully managed the merger of Rumford into the Central Maine Healthcare system and the conversion of Rumford to a critical access hospital. He worked tirelessly to create the new Rumford Hospital. John is an expert on rural healthcare delivery. Most of all, he is a true friend.

Central Maine Healthcare also announced that David Frum, the current president of Bridgton Hospital, will become the president of both Rumford and Bridgton Hospital effective July 1.

John Welsh to retire Photo:

John Welsh has announced his retirement as president of Rumford Hospital, effective July 1.