Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — LBJ hospital is advertising the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) position that’s been vacant since Dr Iotamo Saleapaga was removed from the position and transferred to become the Chief Liaison Officer on behalf of the hospital with the Department of Health where Saleapaga would oversee after-hour clinics, for non emergency patients.

According to hospital board chairman, Dr. Malouamaua Puleisili Tuiolosega his work was not in question, but a number of factors led to his transfer, including lack of performance when it came to submitting timely medical reports, overseeing the medical clinic, and hiring of more doctors and nurses

In November last year, Dr Saleapaga was placed on “leave with pay” and this was confirmed in a letter signed by the Chief Executive Officer, Moefaauo Bill Emmsley sent to the Chiefs, Directors, Managers and General Staff of the LBJ.

Moefaauo said this is all part of review by the Board for the hospital’s management team and should have been done in the middle of his three-year contract.

Two days later the CEO issued a letter appointing Dr Akapusi Ledua as Acting CMO.

According to the hospital the CMO is responsible for planning, organizing and directing the medical staff services for the entire organization.

The LBJ advertisement says the CMO is a leadership position that serves to strengthen the relationship between hospital administration and the medical staff. He/she is the chief administrative leader responsible for clinical quality within the organization.

 “The CMO works closely with both administrative staff and members of the medical staff and its leadership to maintain the high quality of medical care and to promote medical staff participation in furthering the mission of the organization.

 “The CMO works with the leadership of the medical staff and the medical center CEO to develop and ensure compliance with the Physician/Hospital Compact,” says the LBJ ad.

See elsewhere in this edition of the full scope of works for the CMO position, in the advertisement.