Oregon State Hospital Superintendent Sean Murphy is out as head of the state-run mental health hospital less than a month after his first day in the role, the Oregon Capital Chronicle reported Aug. 12.
Oregon Health Authority Interim Director Fariborz Pakseresht ended Mr. Murphy’s trial period with the agency “after careful consideration.” Mr. Murphy’s first day was July 13 after former Oregon Health Authority Director Sejal Hathi, MD, appointed him in June. Ms. Hathi faced criticism over the hospital’s staffing and reliance on restraint and seclusion, with her resignation taking effect Aug. 1.
The Oregon Health Authority will resume recruitment efforts for a permanent superintendent. Jim Diegel will resume serving as interim superintendent, a role he also held last year, according to the report.
The agency did not share details on whether Mr. Murphy resigned or was fired.
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