As Lakeland Regional faces the ever-growing challenges to the health system’s financial stability, it has become increasingly vital that we take a strong position in advocating for the interests of our patients, staff, and community with all of our audiences. To ensure consistency and the greatest effectiveness for these urgent efforts, Chief Compliance and Integrity Officer Michael Spake has been promoted to the role of Vice President of Administrative Services. 

 Spake joined LRHS in June 2011 as Chief Compliance Officer, responsible for compliance, audit, privacy and governmental relations programs. In his expanded role, Michael will oversee administrative support to Elaine Thompson, PhD, President and CEO, to include: management of the health system’s external affairs (e.g. governmental relations, public relations, external communications, development, and community benefit programs) as well as the creation, oversight, and day-to-day operations of the Compliance and Internal Audit Program.

 “The challenges to state Medicaid funding, healthcare reform, federal budget cuts, and other concerns require us to be aggressive in protecting our hospital for the long-term,” said Thompson in a memo to the LRHS management team. 

 Furthermore, Spake’s role is designed to help advance the interests of LRHS, as they engage in advocacy efforts with legislators, public officials, media, and the community at large.

 “The position ensures that the affairs of LRHS are conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws,” added Thompson.

 Michael comes to LRHS from Georgia Health Sciences University (GHSU) and MCG Health System, in Augusta, GA, where he served as Chief Compliance and Risk. He also served as General Counsel for MCG Health, Inc. from 2008 until it merged with GHSU in February 2011. 

 Michael’s background also includes five years as the Director of Compliance and Privacy for Bon Secours Richmond Health System in Virginia, as well as experience with the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Virginia.

 Originally from Anderson, SC, Michael received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from The Citadel, a Master of Health Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Richmond School of Law. He has published and presented on topics including ethics, HIPAA, and compliance, among others.