Cape Cod Healthcare CEO Steps Down

The chief executive of Cape Cod Healthcare has stepped down after a little more than two years on the job, saying he has accomplished what he set out to do sooner than expected.

Dr. Richard Salluzzo tells the Cape Cod Times he is "an agent of change" and the network that oversees Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital is now in "maintenance mode."

The company he took over in July 2008 sustained a $25 million loss in the 2008 fiscal year, but Salluzzo says it expects a pre-audited profit of $31 million this year.

The 59-year-old Salluzzo cut staff and streamlined operations to save money.

Michael Lauf will serve as acting president and chief executive until a successor is found.

Salluzzo says he will pursue other career opportunities, but did not say what.