PUEBLO -Parkview Medical Center announced Monday that Michael T. Baxter, the hospital’s CEO, will step down following almost 10 years in the position.
Baxter will leave his position “at the end of February,” according to an announcement from the hospital Monday.
A news release from Parkview read, “Baxter leaves on good terms and with Parkview in a solid position.” It also mentioned he was leaving to spend time with his family.
Baxter was named CEO in 2009 and during his tenure, the hospital added a 92,000 square foot tower to the main campus and built a 22,000 square foot outpatient center near the downtown facility.
The hospital also announced that Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Leslie Barnes will serve as Baxter’s permanent replacement.
The hospital said Barnes will be the first woman to lead the hospital in its 95-year history. She previously worked for Parkview for 20 years and was named Chief Operating Office in November 2017 and served as Chief Financial Officer from July 2014 before being named COO.
A search will begin to find her replacement following her promotion.
The hospital has recently had to add more beds and deal with a larger volume of patients following hundreds of layoffs and restructuring at St. Mary-Corwin announced in March this year.
Parkview currently employs more than 3,000 staff members and 350 physicians.
(This story has been clarified to reflect that Leslie Barnes will serve as the permanent replacement to Baxter, not on an interim basis.)
