| It is with mixed emotion that Minnie Hamilton Health System announces that Dr. Suresh Balasubramony will be taking a leave of absence from our program. Dr. Suresh, as many of you have come to know him, has been with our organization for nearly 15 years.
During that time, he has become embedded into our area and is truly a beloved member of our community. His leave of absence is in order to pursue a unique educational opportunity in Tennessee.
Dr. Suresh has been selected for a fellowship in nephrology, which will train him to become a nephrologist, or kidney specialist. It has been a difficult decision over the past couple of months for Dr. Suresh. He has had much to consider during his negotiations for this opportunity.
Among his highest of priorities is the continued care and treatment of his patients. He strongly desires to continue practicing in this organization after the completion of his fellowship. This will allow him the ability to manage patient's health and focus on the continued health of those with kidney disease or patients who may be at risk for this condition.
We are saddened to know that he will be away for a period of approximately two years. However, we are excited for him and his family as this is an excellent opportunity to expand his knowledge and skill as a physician. Even more significant, we are optimistic about the expanded training that he will be able to provide to the community.
To fill the void created by his absence, our Administrative team has been working diligently to identify and recruit candidates for placement in our clinics. Dr. Suresh's last day on site will be Friday, August 28.
His presence will be missed, but rest assured, we are confident that we can accommodate and continue to provide superior clinical services to each and every patient. We are committed to the success of the organization and the provision of health care to all who access and utilize our organization.
We will continue to work with each other and with each of you to be your choice for health care services. Thanks to each and every patient we serve, and thank you Dr. Suresh! We look forward to the opportunities that you will bring back to us in the not so distant future. Please contact me or Brett Wellman at 304-354-9244 if you have any questions.
Steve Whited, CEO
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