The administrator at Gouverneur's financially troubled hospital is resigning.
 
Long-time E. J. Noble Hospital administrator Charles Conole submitted his resignation to the hospital board of managers Monday.

Conole has been at the hospital for 21 years. His resignation is effective at the end of the month.

In a telephone interview with 7 News reporter John Friot, Conole said it was his decision and he will be available to act as a consultant if necessary.

State Sen. Patty Ritchie says Conole's resignation is a chance for the hospital to start over.

"It's an opportunity for a clean slate -- there's been some issues -- for everybody to start over and make sure the hospital is as strong as it can be and is providing the best health care," Ritchie said.

"I'm glad to see that we're moving forward and want to get the hospital fully opened and get everyone back to work as soon as possible," the senator said.

The resignation comes nearly three months after the state Health Department forced the hospital to limit operations by shutting down its lab due to serious deficiencies.

The hospital has since been allowed to resume a limited number of services.

Its blood bank remains closed, which has curtailed surgeries, OB and critical access care.

The hospital lost $650,000 last year and has been struggling with loss in revenues due to limited services.

While the hospital still isn't allowed to use its blood bank, the lab remains operating under the supervision of Watertown's Samaritan Medical Center.

EJ Noble may also be looking to affiliate with Canton-Potsdam Hospital for administrative and other services.

A Canton-Potsdam Hospital spokesperson shed little light on whether an affiliation with the hospital is possible saying only they were aware of discussions between EJ Noble and the state health department.

While a Samaritan spokesperson told us there have been no discussions with EJ Noble about managing the facility or signing a memorandum of understanding, Samaritan is maintaining its lab services agreement with EJ Noble.

Hospital Board Chairman Tim Monroe would only say the final decision rests with the health department.

Share Your Thoughts for Your Turn or leave a comment on our   Facebook page