Blanche River Health (BRH) is proud to announce the appointment of Samantha Saudino as our permanent, full-time Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) and Vice President of Clinical Services, effective May 5, 2025. Samantha has served as interim CNO since November 2024, demonstrating remarkable leadership, collaboration, and dedication to advancing healthcare services for our communities.

With extensive experience across the healthcare continuum, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise to BRH. Her career spans acute care, primary care, and long-term care, including her tenure as CEO of Smooth Rock Falls Hospital and her recent role as Manager of Quality and Risk at Timmins and District Hospital

“We are thrilled to welcome Samantha Saudino to this critical leadership role,” said Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO of Blanche River Health. “Her extensive experience, combined with her commitment to quality care and patient safety, aligns perfectly with our mission of ‘Making healthcare work for you.’ We are confident Samantha will play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare in our region.”

Samantha is a Certified Health Executive with a Master of Health Administration and a Bachelor of Nursing. She has earned accolades such as the Rising Star Award from Laurentian University Alumni Association in 2021 and recently completed her Excellence in Executive Leadership certificate from the Rotman School of Management. Her education and leadership background ensure she is well-equipped to guide BRH’s clinical services forward.

“Samantha’s appointment reflects our commitment to excellence in patient care and our vision for a strong and sustainable healthcare system for Englehart, Kirkland Lake, and surrounding communities,” said Chester Jobson, Board Chair of Blanche River Health. “We are excited to see her drive meaningful change that benefits our patients and staff.”

In her new role, Samantha will oversee nursing and clinical operations at BRH, working to enhance care delivery and support our dedicated healthcare teams. Her proven ability to navigate complex challenges and foster collaboration will be invaluable as we continue to grow and adapt to the needs of our communities.

“I am honoured to take on this role and contribute to the incredible work being done at Blanche River Health,” said Samantha Saudino. “I look forward to partnering with staff, patients, and community members to further strengthen our healthcare system.”

About Blanche River Health 

Blanche River Health (BRH) is a 69-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (21 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. 

BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel. 

Please direct media inquiries to: Communications and Public Relations
1-866-274-7774 ext. 2144 | communications@blancheriverhealth.ca