Elkins Park, PA – Michael H. Mittelman, president of Salus University, has appointed John M. Gaal, FACHE, formerly of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, to the newly-created position of vice president for clinical operations. Salus University is an internationally recognized academic institution offering a wide range of graduate, post-graduate and professional degree programs for healthcare professionals.
In his new position, Mr. Gaal will be responsible for the clinical operations of The Eye Institute, the William Feinbloom Vision Rehabilition Center, the Pennsylvania Ear Institute and the other clinical services developed and operated by the University.
“John Gaal’s exceptional skill in managing large hospital operations will be a great asset to Salus as we continue to grow and thrive,” explained Dr. Mittelman. “His 11 years of experience as a Chief Operating Officer (Deputy Commander) in military hospitals, combined with his leadership ability, will make him a valuable part of the Salus team.”
Mr. Gaal has more than 20 years experience as a healthcare administrator and 28 years of military service. Prior to his recent retirement as a Colonel, US Army Medical Service Corps, he served as the chief operating officer at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he was responsible for oversight of administrative operations for the Joint Commission accredited academic medical center.
Mr. Gaal earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Wake Forest University and master of healthcare administration degree from the Army-Baylor Program at Baylor University.
About Salus
Salus University, founded as the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 1919, today is a diversified, globally recognized professional academic center of learning that offers a wide range of degree programs in the professions of Optometry, Audiology, Physician Assistant, Public Health, Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Biomedicine and Occupational Therapy. There are more than 1,000 students, including PhD candidates, and more than 10,000 alumni worldwide. For more information, please visit www.salus
