The California Hospital Association hired Dr. David Perrott as senior vice president and chief medical officer to replace Dorel Harms, who recently retired as senior vice president, clinical services.

Last month Perrott joined the Joint Commission's board of commissioners, appointed by the American Dental Association. Perrott, a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon will lead the association's public policy efforts involving clinical services, including nursing, physician relations, health information technology, and patient safety and quality improvement.

“Dr. Perrott's national reputation and vast experience in patient safety and quality improvement, and his extensive knowledge of the healthcare delivery system make him an excellent addition to the CHA staff,” CHA President and CEO Duane Dauner said in a news release.

Perrott recently left Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital, where he was vice president and CMO. The hospital, operated by a public hospital district, has been under fire for what critics, including the National Union of Healthcare Workers, viewed as a lavish payout for former CEO Sam Downing, who last year received a supplemental retirement payout of nearly $4 million. Salinas Valley officials last week responded to local media inquiries with benefit information (PDF) for other executives, including Perrott, who was due $371,194 for his 11 years of service.

Perrott's age was not available at deadline. His position with the CHA was effective Jan. 3, according to a spokeswoman.