Yale named board chair at Kindred Healthcare

Phyllis Yale is the new chairwoman of the board of directors at Kindred Healthcare, effective immediately, the Louisville, Ky.-based post-acute-care provider announced.

Yale has been a Kindred board member since January 2010. She succeeds Edward Kuntz, who is retiring, as chairman.

Yale was a partner with consultant Bain & Co. from 1987 to July 2010 and helped build its healthcare consulting practice. She also is currently chair of Blue Cross Blue and Shield of Massachusetts, and serves on the boards of National Surgical Hospitals, ValueOptions, Cradles To Crayons and the Bridgespan Group. She previously served on the boards of Pediatric Services of America and NeighborCare.

“Since joining Kindred's board in 2010, Phyllis has provided valuable insights and advice that has helped us with many important strategic matters and business initiatives,” said Paul Diaz, Kindred's CEO. “Her industry leadership and guidance have benefited Kindred, the board and our shareholders, and her qualifications make her an ideal choice to serve as chair.”

“I have enjoyed working with the board and management team as the company executes on its strategy to continue growing and creating value for its stakeholders as the post-acute provider and partner of choice,” Yale said in a news release. “I look forward to taking on an even more active role as chair of the board of directors.”

Kindred this month launched $14-a-share cash and stock takeover offer for Atlanta-based Gentiva Health Services, a home-health and hospice company. Gentiva has rejected the offer.

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