Brian Bauer has been fired from his post as CEO of Lutheran Health Network and Lutheran Hospital, officials announced late today.

Aaron Garofola, CEO of Dupont Hospital, resigned his post today. He accepted a new position as a project CEO with Community Health Systems Professional Services Corp.

Bauer has been caught in the middle between Lutheran physicians and staff and parent company Community Health Systems in recent weeks. Local staff has publicly complained about what it describes as neglect by the Franklin, Tennessee-based company.

Although local doctors and staff have vocally supported Bauer, CHS officials apparently weren't satisfied that he was loyal to them.

"Bauer has made meaningful contributions over the past several years, but current circumstances put him in an untenable position and he is unable to continue in his leadership role," CHS officials said in an email.

For more on this story, see Tuesday's print edition of The Journal Gazette or visit www.journalgazette.net after 1 a.m. Tuesday.

sslater@jg.net