Western State Hospital names new CEO to face security, regulation worries

Nicholas Leider | | Health Exec | Management

Western State Hospital has hired a new CEO in the wake of a tumultuous stretch involving patient escapes and violation notices from federal regulators of the state-run psychiatric facility. Cheryl Strange will take over the mental health hospital in Lakewood, Wash., on April 25.

Strange faces a number of challenges, including the possibility of Western State losing federal funding due to difficulties meeting federal regulations. Inspectors said the hospital put patients at risk of injury and death. The recent escape of two patients also raised concerns about facility security.

“We’ve asked this team to act with all due urgency to make sure that Western is safe and that the staff can ensure that no more dangerous patients can get away from this institution,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee.

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Nicholas Leider, Managing Editor

Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.

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