Lehigh Valley Health Network Chief Financial Officer Resigns

Lehigh Valley Health Network Chief Financial Officer Joseph G. Felkner has resigned, the hospital network announced in a statement Wednesday. The company did not provide an explanation.

President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ronald W. Swinfard accepted Felkner's resignation effective immediately.

Prior to joining LVHN in 2009, Felkner served as senior vice president and chief strategy officer at Baptist Health Care in Pensacola, Fla.

“Joe helped the organization become more efficient and prepare for the challenges of health care reform,” Swinfard said in a statement. “We wish him well as he pursues other professional opportunities.” 

Ed O’Dea, LVHN’s controller, will serve as interim chief financial officer while a search is conducted to fill the position. O’Dea has served the health network for nearly 20 years.

“Ed’s skills, commitment and expertise will continue to serve the network well as we make this transition,” Swinfard said. 

“Our organization is financially strong and a key reason is the ongoing network-wide effort to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.  Ed has played a significant role in helping to carry out that initiative which continues to allow us to be even more successful in caring for our community.”

Felkner is the second high-ranking LVH administrator to leave abruptly in the past year, The Morning Call said. Former CEO Elliot Sussman left his position in November after leading LVH for more than 17 years.