Former Valley County Health System CEO responds to investigation, allegations

Bill Sugg, former president and CEO of Valley County Health System in Ord, Neb., is speaking out after submitting his resignation, effective Aug. 31.

The Valley County Board of Trustees accepted Mr. Sugg's resignation on Aug. 19, and heard the report on an investigation that revealed allegations of harassment and conflicts of interest. An independent investigator completed two investigations, one in June and another in August.

The investigation report overall concluded that Mr. Sugg violated VCHS policy in regard to harassment, unprofessional conduct, discrimination, sexual harassment or workplace violence and that some of his comments "had a negative effect on team members and made some fear for their safety," according to the Grand Island Independent.

The investigation report also concluded that the personal loans Mr. Sugg reportedly took were conflicts of interest, the publication notes.

Here are five responses from Mr. Sugg related to the allegations and investigation, according to the Grand Island Independent. 

1. Mr. Sugg, who was placed on investigatory suspension June 26 after the VCHS board learned of allegations against him, said he disagreed with the allegations in the investigation. He claimed the investigation reports "are riddled with inaccuracies and false statements and failed to take into account much of what I said in response to the allegations."

2. Mr. Sugg said in the statement that he submitted his resignation "because of the community backlash after the accusations and because he wanted to prevent undue stress to those at VCHS," according to the Grand Island Independent.

3. In his statement, Mr. Sugg added that he has concerns about the future of the health system. "I am concerned now that the continued pattern of parting ways with yet another hospital CEO will negatively impact the community to a point beyond recovery," said Mr. Sugg, according to the Grand Island Independent. Mr. Sugg’s resignation coincides with the expiration of his contract on Aug. 31.

4. Mr. Sugg said he felt the health system made progress during his tenure, including regaining the community’s trust, gaining financial strength and improving quality of care.

5. Mr. Sugg and his wife are considering legal options.