Naples doctor concerned after several radiologist quit NCH

Writer: Jack Lowenstein
Published: Updated:
FILE: NCH Healthcare System. (Credit: WINK News/FILE)
FILE: NCH Healthcare System. (Credit: WINK News/FILE)

A former doctor in Naples is concerned with the recent departures of several staff members.

A number of specialized radiologists left Naples Community Hospital Monday, and it is alarming to Dr. Ray Montecalvo, who was chairman of the radiology department at NCH from 1997 to 2004.

“When a group of radiologists for whatever reason decide to move on, it leaves a hospital that absolutely needs them at large,” Montecalvo said. “And that’s what I’m afraid is happening.”

The departing radiologists specialize in procedures that aid in the diagnosis and treatment for different illnesses throughout the body.

“We have four of our radiologists who will be transitioning away from the physician group as well as the hospital system,” said Sarah Frye, NCH director of operations. “We also have new providers who are coming on board to back-fill their roles. So, we’ll never have a lapse in care. Our patients will always be able to receive services.”

NCH recruited one of the departing radiologists several years ago to start its Comprehensive Stroke Program, a program has proven to be successful over the years. Despite that physician leaving, Frye said the program will still be in good hands.

“It’s not one physician who makes that program,” Frye said. “It’s an entire team of individuals. So those individuals who have been here on the ground for months and years have remained here at NCH, and we’ll continue to provide that excellent level of service.”

This is the latest controversy to manifest at NCH, since the community concern of the NCH hospitalist program was said to be implemented. That’s where patients in certain units at the hospital are only admitted and treated by NCH doctors versus their primary care provider.

NCH said it will recruit the best talent available for its vacant positions.

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