Kenneth McFarland has been named Mission Hospital’s new president and chief executive officer, St. Joseph Health System and Mission Hospital announced in a statement today. McFarland has served Mission Hospital in leadership roles since 1998, most recently as interim CEO since May.
“Kenn has a great deal of knowledge about the region and possesses a proven track record of envisioning and carrying out numerous efforts that effectively meet community health care needs,” said Darrin Montalvo, executive vice president, Southern California Region, St. Joseph Health System. “I am confident that with Kenn’s keen insight and exceptional skills, Mission Hospital will continue to lead as a trusted, high quality health care partner for South Orange County residents.”
McFarland joined Mission Hospital as its chief financial officer and quickly became known for stewarding the organization’s resources and guiding teams to develop programs and services that greatly improve community health care. He led the hospital’s implementation of an electronic medical record, which would help increase the efficiency and accuracy of care, the statement said. He also developed the hospital’s master plan and, in 2009, was instrumental in purchasing the former South Coast Medical Center in Laguna Beach. Under McFarland’s leadership, Mission introduced several new services to the facility and secured its financial stability.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead an organization that is so committed to serving its communities,” he said. “My goal is to ensure Mission Hospital continues to be a good neighbor and premier health provider to South County individuals and families.”
A lifelong advocate of community service, McFarland serves on the Board of Trustees for the Camino Health Center and has been active on the boards of Stoneybrooke Christian Schools and San Clemente Little League. He and his wife, Kristine, live in San Clemente with their sons Jacob, 14 and Sean, 11.
