Bruce Carter, United Hospital Center (UHC) CEO announced today his intention to retire April 3, 2015 after 28 years of service to the community hospital. Carter's career in the industry spans more than 36 years.

 

“The decision was taken only after a long, thoughtful and deliberative process,” said Carter.  “While I have tremendously enjoyed my career in health care, I feel it is time to start checking things off my personal bucket list.” 

 

United Hospital Center’s Board of Directors plans to initiate an extensive, nationwide search for Carter’s replacement, beginning immediately with the appointment of a search committee.  This group has initially met and consists of four officers from the UHC board, president and vice president of the medical staff, Christopher Colenda, MD, MPH, WVUHS CEO and Chancellor for Health Sciences at WVU and Patrick Deem, WVUHS vice chair. 

 

“Under Bruce's leadership, we have experienced extraordinary growth for the past 28 years,” said UHC Board of Directors chairman Jeff Barger. "We on the board and in the community certainly appreciate his years of service to UHC and the region."  

 

During Carter’s tenure, a new 681,440 square foot, state-of-the-art hospital was built in Bridgeport and prior to his leaving; a new 57,000 square foot musculoskeletal center will open in March on the campus.

 

“Bruce has set a vision for the future that will permit UHC to thrive beyond his tenure," said Dr. Colenda.  "I've worked with Bruce for five years on a number of joint projects with the University.  He has been a staunch advocate for the citizens of North Central West Virginia and for the values of the West Virginia United Health System.  In announcing his retirement, he has allowed the board the time to thoughtfully select a path forward.  I have learned much from my colleague, as have all of us have.” 

 

To Carter, being a hospital administrator has not been just a job, but rather a mission.  

 

“I take this step in the best interest of the hospital that I love,” said Carter.  “This institution is greater than me, and it will move on to grow even stronger.  UHC has its best days ahead.”