Hovan Out as President and CEO of Southcoast Health

Keith Hovan is officially out as President and CEO of Southcoast Health.

The embattled Hovan was removed from his position by the Southcoast Health Board of Trustees, according to an email sent to Southcoast Health employees and obtained by WBSM.

“We wish to inform you that the Board of Trustees has determined it is in the best interest of Southcoast Health for Keith Hovan not to return as the President and CEO of Southcoast Health. We thank Mr. Hovan for his past service,” the email stated.

Southcoast Health later confirmed with WBSM News that Hovan has been removed.

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Hovan took a leave of absence back in November of 2021, following his arrest by the Rochester Police Department on a charge of domestic assault and battery. According to a police report, officers responded to Hovan’s home on Mary’s Pond Road on November 6 to find Hovan with a minor injury to his arm and the alleged victim inside with an injury to the face. Officers said the residents told them that the dispute began over what television show to watch and later escalated.

The charge was dismissed in a bench trial in Wareham District Court on December 20.

Hovan had served as president and CEO since July of 2008.

According to the email sent to staff, Dr. Rayford Kruger will continue serving as Acting President and CEO of Southcoast Health. Dr. Kruger has been a surgeon for Southcoast Health for 34 years.