LHSC VP 'no longer with organization' day after widespread surgery cancellations

A key leader at the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) has abruptly left the organization at a time when the novel coronavirus is putting increasing strain on hospital services and staff.

In an email sent Tuesday to senior leadership and obtained by CBC News, LHSC said Vice President of Clinical Programs Julie Trpkovski is "no longer with the organization effective today." 

Trpkovski had been with LHSC for four years and was often put forward as the public face to discuss operational issues within the hospital.

On Monday, she had instructed surgical teams to shut down multiple operating rooms due to the "worsening local situation with outbreaks." That directive was sent in an email to surgical teams, which CBC London acquired from sources and reported on prior to LHSC issuing its statement about her departure.  

That decision was altered Tuesday with some operating rooms reopening, but only after confusion in clinics as patients arrived and staff tried to rebook.

LHSC thanked "Julie for her service and wishes her all the best in her future endeavours."

She will be replaced in the interim by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Adam Dukelow, who often appears at the health unit's COVID-19 weekly briefings, and Chief Nursing Officer Carol Young-Ritchie. 

CBC News has reached out to Trpkovski for comment. LHSC has not said why Trpkovski was let go.