Wayne Sensor, president and CEO of nonprofit Alegent Health, the largest integrated healthcare system in the Nebraska and Iowa region, has resigned, effective immediately.
In a four-paragraph announcement this morning, Alegent Health said its board has asked Richard A. Hachten II to return as interim President and CEO. Hachten served as Alegent's president from its creation in 1996 until his retirement in April.
He "will provide immediate leadership to move the organization forward as well as assist the board in finding a permanent replacement," according to Alegent's statement, which was signed by Alegent board chairperson, Leslie Andersen.
The statement did not explain why Sensor has resigned. However, it credited his leadership for the organization receiving the top rank in quality and patient satisfaction by the Network for Regional Healthcare Improvement.
"Our board, along with physicians and employees, wish to thank Wayne for his innovation and commitment and dedication to Alegent Health and to our community. His legacy of innovation and commitment to high quality, low-cost care, patient-centered care will carry through our employees, our physicians and our mission."
According to Alegent Health's Web site, the faith-based system encompasses nine acute care hospitals, 1,832 licensed beds and more than 1,300 physicians on its medical staff.
Headquartered in Omaha, Alegent provides services at more than 100 sites and has 9,000 employees.
It was created by the consolidation of Bergan Mercy Health System and Immanuel Medical Center in 1996. Its sponsors are Catholic Health Initiatives and Immanuel Health Systems, which is affiliated with the Nebraska Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.
Sensor is one of the most well-known health leaders and has been honored by publications for his work in healthcare.