Elizabeth McCarthy, Director of Specialized Geriatric Services, Announces Retirement

It is with truly mixed emotions that I am informing you that Beth McCarthy, Director of Specialized Geriatric Services, has decided to retire after a 37 year career in health care.   For many in health care, the hope is that when it comes time to retire – we can look back and say we had a positive impact and are leaving the system a better place because we were a part of it.  Without a doubt, Beth can say that.  

Beth completed a Masters in Social Work and a Masters in Health Science in Health Administration – both at the University of Toronto.  She held several leadership roles in Timmins and Sudbury within hospitals, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, and the Canadian Cancer Society.  She then made the excellent decision to come south from Sudbury to  St. Joseph’s Health Care London in 2009.   While with us, Beth has provided outstanding leadership in a number of important initiatives aimed at improving the experience of patients and families in the health care system including South West Assess and Restore, Senior Friendly Care,  Frail Senior Strategy, and Care Partnership initiatives.  She is a respected system-based leader and partner who has held provincial leadership roles with the Ontario Regional Geriatric Program and as an active member of the Canadian College of Health Care Leaders.   

One of Beth’s greatest strengths is her ability to identify and develop emerging leaders.  She consistently looked to provide leadership opportunities to others and humbly and proudly watched them shine.  On a personal note, I will miss Beth’s thoughtful and constructive insights, her values-aligned focus, and maybe most of all her honesty.  When I think of Beth, the word “trust” jumps to mind first for me, and trust is what I had in her leadership.

As some of you know, Beth is a very proud grandmother of “Mags” (Margaret).  Beth’s face literally lights up every time she talks about her and she is looking forward to being even more a part of her granddaughter’s life in the coming months.  Beth’s last day with the organization will be July 31st and although we are currently restricted from gathering together to wish her well, there will be opportunities to say good bye in the next couple of months. 

Recruitment for a Director of SGS will begin immediately.

Please join me in congratulating Beth on her retirement and for her successful career in health care.

Roy