Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) President & CEO Rob Montagnese announced changes in nursing leadership positions.  “The leadership role changes allow LMHS to place greater focus on clinical services related to community health and wellness,” Rob said.  Vice President Patient Care Services Debbie Young, M.S., R.N., C.C.M. will now serve as Vice President Allied Health Services, and Community Health & Wellness. Assistant Vice President Inpatient Services Heather Burkhart, B.S.N., R.N., is now Vice President Acute Care Services. 

Debbie earned her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from The Ohio State University College of Nursing.  Additionally, she is certified in case management.  Debbie joined LMHS in 1996, and became Vice President Patient Care Services in July 2001.  In addition to leading new initiatives related to community health and wellness, she also will continue to provide oversight for Pharmacy, Laboratory, Radiology, Emergency Department & Urgent Care, Inpatient Case Management, Community Case Management, Home Care, Safe Surroundings and Rehabilitation Therapies.  

Heather earned her Bachelor of Nursing degree from Ohio University and is currently pursuing a Master of Health Administration degree.  She began working for LMHS in 2000 as a staff nurse.  She served as the Director of Medical Surgical Nursing for four years and as Vice President Inpatient Services for four years.  In her new role, Heather will provide administrative oversight for the Hospitalist group, Medical/Surgical Inpatient Units, Critical Care, Dialysis, Maternal Child, Cardiology, Respiratory Therapy, Oncology, Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation, and Surgical Services which includes Surgery, GI Lab, Pain Clinic, Wound Clinic and Sleep Care Services.