Brookdale Senior Living Names John Stengle CEO, Signaling a Renewed Focus on Integrated Care
Brookdale Senior Living has appointed John Stengle as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 8th.This leadership change comes after Cindy Baier’s departure in April, and signals a potential shift towards expanding care options beyond customary senior living communities. Stengle’s extensive background in senior care and hospitality positions Brookdale to capitalize on the growing demand for integrated, home-based care solutions.
A Leader with Deep Industry Experience
Stengle brings a wealth of experience to Brookdale,most recently serving as President and Chief operating Officer of Gentiva Health Services sence 2022. Gentiva, owned 40% by Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM), is a major provider of home health, hospice, and palliative care services across 38 states, employing over 15,000 professionals.
His appointment is notably noteworthy given Brookdale’s past in the home-based care sector. the company previously operated a significant home health division, but strategically sold it to HCA Healthcare (NYSE: HCA) in 2021.
Why This Matters: The Rise of Integrated Care
Brookdale’s leadership has consistently emphasized the future of healthcare lies in a more connected continuum of care. As Baier noted in 2022,many residents face multiple chronic conditions,and a home-like habitat is crucial for meeting their evolving healthcare needs.
Stengle’s expertise could be instrumental in forging new partnerships and opportunities in at-home care. This move aligns with a broader industry trend:
* Growing Demand: 95% of respondents in a recent homecare Advocacy Network survey expressed interest in senior living communities offering home-based care.
* Industry Adoption: Over half of the largest nonprofit senior living organizations already provide some form of care in the home.
* Strategic Partnerships: Organizations like Bickford Senior Living and American Baptist Homes of the Midwest have successfully launched home care services in recent years, often in collaboration with the HomeCare Advocacy Network.
Brookdale’s Past and Potential Future in Home-based Care
Brookdale isn’t new to this space. Before the 2021 sale,the company actively participated in the home-based care market.They previously worked with LHC Group,even selling 47 Brookdale Health Services assets to them as part of a joint venture with HCA Healthcare.
Stengle’s arrival suggests Brookdale is actively exploring ways to re-enter or expand its presence in this growing segment. This could involve:
* New Partnerships: Collaborating with home health agencies to offer a wider range of services to residents.
* Service Expansion: Developing in-home care options for individuals who prefer to age in place.
* Value-Based Care: Embracing models that prioritize outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
“I look forward to building on the company’s recent success and to capturing the significant opportunities ahead to drive shareholder value,” Stengle stated. His leadership promises a renewed focus on innovation and growth,possibly positioning Brookdale as a leader in the evolving landscape of senior care.
Resources:
* Home Healthcare News – Brookdale Sells Home Health Business
* Senior Housing News – Optum’s Deal Signals Shift in Senior Living
* [Home Healthcare News – Home-Based Care Popular Among Senior Living Operators](https://homehealthcarenews.com/2020/10/home-based-care-remains-popular-among-senior-living-operators-but-adult-day-could-be-in-trouble/#:~:text=Over%20half%20of%20the%20U.