FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Monique Murphy-Mijares
Marketing/Public Relations Director
760-731-8432

DATE:  April 15, 2008

FALLBROOK HOSPITAL CENTER ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGE

FALLBROOK, CALIF - April 15, 2008 -- Fallbrook Hospital (FH) today announced that chief executive officer Larry Payton will be leaving the hospital to accept a CEO position at Lea Regional Medical Center in Hobbs, NM.  Payton, who has been administrator of Fallbrook Hospital and its skilled nursing facility since 2003, will assume his new responsibilities in New Mexico on May 5.

“I have mixed emotions about leaving,” said Payton.  “In the past four and a half years we’ve come together as a cohesive team to strengthen Fallbrook Hospital and its ability to meet the community’s needs.  I am proud of the successes we have achieved, the storms -- and fires -- we’ve weathered, and the high quality care we’re focused on providing.” 

Under Payton’s leadership, the hospital expanded services, recruited numerous primary care physicians and specialists and improved customer service.  He also led the planning and construction of a significant expansion and renovation project to upgrade surgical services; the final phase of the enhancement is expected to be complete this summer.

“I will miss Fallbrook Hospital, the community, and the many outstanding people I have had the chance to work with and get to know,” he said.  “There’s a strong team in place at the hospital, and I am confident they will continue the momentum, and maintain focus on doing what’s best for the patients and the community.”

Dorothy Pratt, chairman of FH’s Board of Trustees, said “Larry has been a true leader, and has worked hard to build a solid, unified organization with a shared vision.  We're fortunate today to have a stronger, more cohesive team of employees, physicians and leaders to continue along the path of success.   “We’re sorry Larry will be leaving us, but wish him the best in the wonderful new opportunity in New Mexico,” she said.

Fred Capozello has been named Interim Chief Executive Officer of Fallbrook Hospital, effective April 28, 2008.   He brings a wealth of experience, including seventeen years of senior management, operation and financial experience in California hospitals. 

He was hired in 2001 as chief financial officer, and since 2005 has been assistant CEO for the Hospital, Skilled Nursing Facility, and home health and hospice programs.  “I am looking forward to working with the Board, physicians, hospital staff and volunteers in continuing the momentum and growth at Fallbrook Hospital”, says Capozello.

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