Northern Light Acadia Hospital’s president stepped down last week, the health care system announced on Monday.
Mark Lukens’ last day at the hospital was Friday, according to Northern Light Health. Lukens left for personal reasons, spokesperson Suzanne Spruce said. Lukens took on the role in July 2023 after previously leading a behavioral health organization in upstate New York.
The departure marks the latest upheaval at Northern Light Health in what has been a tumultuous few years for the organization.
The health care system closed a Waterville hospital in May, and earlier this month, contract talks stalled between Northern Light and health insurer Anthem. Their contract will expire at the end of September if the two parties can’t reach an agreement. Northern Light’s credit rating has also plummeted in recent months, which experts have warned could worsen the quality of patient care.
Paul Bolin, executive vice president and chief people and administrative officer for Northern Light Health, will take over Lukens’ role. It’s not clear yet whether Bolin’s acting presidency will become permanent, Spruce said.
Acadia is one of two private psychiatric care hospitals in the state.