Tyrone Regional Health Network chief steps down

The CEO of a local health network resigned from his post.

Tyrone Regional Health Network announced the resignation of CEO Steve Gildea, who served in the capacity since 2009.

TRHN board of directors President Kelly Wike said Gildea resigned for personal reasons and to pursue other opportunities. Gildea could not be reached for comment.

“Steve devoted a number years to Tyrone Regional,” Wike said. “He worked hard and much was accomplished under his leadership during that time. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Sharon Fisher, chief nursing officer, stepped in to serve as interim CEO while the board conducts a search for the position. The simultaneous moves come at a time when TRHN is in negotiations to become a member of Penn State Health.

“This was a strategic decision at the board level and we are staying on course,” Wike said in a point echoed by Penn State Health spokesman Scott Gilbert.

“We continue to work with Tyrone Regional Health Network about partnering with them to expand health services to the people of the Tyrone region,” Gilbert said.

If TRHN stays the course, it will be the latest health network to be absorbed by PSH.

St. Joseph Regional Health Network became Penn State Health St. Joseph in July, the same month PSH and TRHN signed a letter of intent to be affiliated.

PSH is also fighting the Federal Trade Commission and Pennsylvania attorney general’s efforts to prevent it from merging with PinnacleHealth, which was approved by Penn State’s board of trustees in March 2015.

The FTC and OAG argued the merger would reduce competition in the area surrounding Harrisburg and lead to reduced quality and higher health care costs. PSH argues that the merger would result in the highest quality care at the lowest possible cost.

This story was originally published February 16, 2016 at 4:38 PM with the headline "Tyrone Regional Health Network chief steps down."