Lawrence reisdent named new chief nursing officer for Capital Health
Capital Health has appointed Melissa Chichilitti as its new chief nursing officer, naming a longtime employee to oversee nursing and patient care services across the regional health system.
Chichilitti, who began her career with Capital Health more than 25 years ago as a unit secretary, will be responsible for a wide range of clinical operations, including adult and pediatric nursing, maternal and child health services, intensive care units, emergency departments, operating rooms, observation units, respiratory therapy, mental health and dialysis services, according to the health system.
She most recently served as associate chief nursing officer at Capital Health Regional Medical Center. Over the course of her career, she has held a variety of roles, including staff nurse in the Medical-Surgical Intensive Care Unit, as she advanced through the organization.
“Melissa has a deep understanding of the complex processes that drive our organization and the passion to continue the award-winning tradition of patient care that she helped establish,” said Arlene Walsh, chief operating officer at Capital Health.
In addition to her new responsibilities, Chichilitti will continue overseeing logistics and throughput, care management, and environmental and escort services.
Chichilitti earned a master’s degree in nursing from The College of New Jersey and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Drexel University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in clinical counseling psychology from Kutztown University and is certified as a critical care registered nurse.
In a statement, Chichilitti said she is committed to continuing the organization’s focus on patient care.
“Capital Health has a clear commitment to nursing excellence and it’s a commitment I am proud to continue,” she said. “As CNO, I’m excited to continue this tradition and lead our nurses to new heights as we meet the health care needs of the communities we serve.”
