Coffey Health System Chief Executive Officer Dennis L. George submitted his resignation on Friday, September 30, 2011. After serving as CEO for twenty years, George has accepted a new post as CEO for Associated Purchasing Services based in Kansas City.

The CHS Board of Trustees formally accepted the resignation during a special session Monday. George's last day will be October 31.

“It has been an honor to be a part of Coffey Health System for two decades,” George said. “I am very proud of the growth we have attained, and even more proud of the lives we have touched. Coffey and Woodson Counties are blessed to have such skilled healthcare professionals here to meet their needs, and I am honored to have been associated with this staff.”

The board also appointed Karen Smith to serve as interim CEO effective November 1. Smith has served as chief financial officer for three years.

  “Dennis has led us in a positive direction for twenty years and built Coffey Health System into what it is today . We are sorry to see him leave, and he has our gratitude and best wishes,” said board of trustees chairman John Hetzel. “As we enter a new era for Coffey Health System—and a new era for healthcare in general—we have confidence in Karen Smith and our leadership team.”

  A search committee will be charged with interviewing candidates and advising the board on the selection of a permanent replacement. The board will appoint search committee members during the regular monthly meeting on October 17.