Passing the Baton

Centuries after the world’s greatest composers added notes to an original piece of sheet music, their work endures. Throughout history, countless conductors and musicians have replicated and carried forth this beautiful music for the delight of future generations.

Similarly at Lehigh Valley Health Network, we continue to carry forth the aspirations of our founder, Leonard Parker Pool. He envisioned a superior, regional hospital here in the Lehigh Valley so that no one would have to leave home to receive leading-edge care. That dream has evolved over the years. For the past 17 years, thanks to the unwavering commitment to excellence of our former president and chief executive officer, Elliot Sussman, M.D., our health network grew and prospered as it never had before.

As the baton is passed to new leadership, we are humbled and honored to continue the great work of our predecessors. Although challenges undoubtedly lay ahead, our health network will continue to thrive, guided by its mission to heal, comfort and care for the people of our community.

Lehigh Valley Health Network is like the orchestra that brings a composer’s classical score to a new generation of listeners. Like an orchestra, we comprise many parts—skilled health care professionals; physician practices; three state-of-the-art hospitals; pharmacy, imaging, laboratory, and preferred provider services; and community health centers. Our colleagues’ passion for better medicine ensures the numerous parts of our health network work together to meet our patients’ needs now and into the future.

During this period of revolutionary change in health care, it takes an innovative health network to provide the comprehensive services our community needs. At Lehigh Valley Health Network, we are grateful and in awe of the outstanding contribution of Elliot Sussman, M.D., and look forward to the future because we are driven to provide our patients and their families with a symphony of care.

J.B. Reilly
Chair, Board of Trustees

Ronald W. Swinfard, M.D.
President and Chief Executive Officer