Dear Community,
On behalf of the Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) Board of Directors, it is with mixed emotions that I announce a significant leadership transition as Dr. Keith Hay, Chief of Staff, steps down effective September 30, 2025, and Dr. Paul Faulkner assumes the role, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization.
Dr. Hay has served as Chief of Staff for the past two years, bringing exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to advancing healthcare at HHHS. During his tenure, Dr. Hay was instrumental in establishing a robust credentialing system for physicians, leveraging his extensive knowledge of standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His efforts have strengthened the organization’s foundation of quality care. Dr. Hay also spearheaded recruitment efforts and forged local partnerships to grow HHHS, ensuring a sustainable future for the organization. A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, he championed initiatives to make HHHS more planet-friendly.
Dr. Hay will continue to serve as a leader in primary care, representing Haliburton interests at the Kawartha Lakes Haliburton OHT Primary Care Leadership Council.
“It has been an honor to serve as Chief of Staff,” said Dr. Hay. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made together, from enhancing physician standards to fostering community partnerships. I look forward to helping strengthen primary care at HHHS and in the County.”
Dr. Paul Faulkner, a highly respected physician currently practicing in HHHS’s emergency department, will step into the role of Chief of Staff on October 1, 2025, under a three-year contract. A local resident, Dr. Faulkner brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as Chief of Staff at a large city center hospital. His leadership is expected to drive HHHS’s strategic initiatives, particularly the organization’s master planning efforts, which aim to enhance facilities and services to meet the community’s growing needs. Dr. Faulkner is enthusiastic about the opportunity to lead HHHS into its next phase of growth and innovation.
“I am thrilled to take on the role of Chief of Staff at HHHS,” said Dr. Faulkner. “The master planning efforts underway present an exciting opportunity to shape the future of healthcare in our community. I look forward to working with our talented team to deliver exceptional care and strengthen our ties to the region.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hay for his dedicated leadership and transformative contributions to HHHS. His vision and commitment have positioned us for continued success. We are equally excited to welcome Dr. Faulkner, whose experience and passion for our community will guide HHHS into a bright future. HHHS remains committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and look forward to continued progress under Dr. Faulkner’s leadership.
Regards,
Irene Odell
HHHS Board Chair
On behalf of the Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) Board of Directors, it is with mixed emotions that I announce a significant leadership transition as Dr. Keith Hay, Chief of Staff, steps down effective September 30, 2025, and Dr. Paul Faulkner assumes the role, marking an exciting new chapter for the organization.
Dr. Hay has served as Chief of Staff for the past two years, bringing exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to advancing healthcare at HHHS. During his tenure, Dr. Hay was instrumental in establishing a robust credentialing system for physicians, leveraging his extensive knowledge of standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). His efforts have strengthened the organization’s foundation of quality care. Dr. Hay also spearheaded recruitment efforts and forged local partnerships to grow HHHS, ensuring a sustainable future for the organization. A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, he championed initiatives to make HHHS more planet-friendly.
Dr. Hay will continue to serve as a leader in primary care, representing Haliburton interests at the Kawartha Lakes Haliburton OHT Primary Care Leadership Council.
“It has been an honor to serve as Chief of Staff,” said Dr. Hay. “I am proud of the progress we’ve made together, from enhancing physician standards to fostering community partnerships. I look forward to helping strengthen primary care at HHHS and in the County.”
Dr. Paul Faulkner, a highly respected physician currently practicing in HHHS’s emergency department, will step into the role of Chief of Staff on October 1, 2025, under a three-year contract. A local resident, Dr. Faulkner brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as Chief of Staff at a large city center hospital. His leadership is expected to drive HHHS’s strategic initiatives, particularly the organization’s master planning efforts, which aim to enhance facilities and services to meet the community’s growing needs. Dr. Faulkner is enthusiastic about the opportunity to lead HHHS into its next phase of growth and innovation.
“I am thrilled to take on the role of Chief of Staff at HHHS,” said Dr. Faulkner. “The master planning efforts underway present an exciting opportunity to shape the future of healthcare in our community. I look forward to working with our talented team to deliver exceptional care and strengthen our ties to the region.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hay for his dedicated leadership and transformative contributions to HHHS. His vision and commitment have positioned us for continued success. We are equally excited to welcome Dr. Faulkner, whose experience and passion for our community will guide HHHS into a bright future. HHHS remains committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care and look forward to continued progress under Dr. Faulkner’s leadership.
Regards,
Irene Odell
HHHS Board Chair