The Maine Hospital Association said it will usher in a new president next month as its longtime leader steps down.
Jeffrey Austin, now vice president of government affairs and communications, will take over the top post on March 1 from Steven Michaud, who is leaving after four decades at the helm of the Augusta-based trade association.
Michaud joined the group, which represents 32 community-governed hospitals across Maine, in 1987 and was named president in 1999.
“Health care is a dynamic and often turbulent field, and Steven has been a steady, guiding force throughout the many changes that have taken place here in Maine and the nation over the past few decades,” said Steve Littleson, the association’s board chair. “Health care workers and all the people of Maine have benefited from his leadership, and he will be sorely missed.”
‘Daunting challenges’
Austin will lead the group’s efforts to support Maine’s hospitals as they work to meet the health care needs of communities across the state.
“We know we have daunting challenges facing our field in the coming years, but we have full confidence that Jeff will lead us all in meeting those challenges head-on and successfully,” Littleson said.
As vice president, Austin was the association’s principal lobbyist, leading advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels. He is credited with working on behalf of Maine hospitals to secure funding through the Rural Health Transformation Fund and in blocking controversial changes to the 340B federal drug discount program.
Austin has also shaped the association’s communications strategy. He serves as treasurer of the Friends of Maine Hospitals, the association’s political action committee.
“Hospitals and health systems are facing a period of significant challenge and change, and I look forward to listening, collaborating and building on the important work already underway as we continue to serve our communities together,” Austin said in a news release.