Business Briefs

Ocean Medical Center, Brick, has appointed two new vice presidents to join its administrative team. Richard A. Epstein, R.Ph, MBA, was appointed vice president of operations and Cynthia Lantz, R.N., was appointed vice president for Strategic Planning and Business Development.

Lantz has been an employee of Meridian Health, since 1977, holding various positions along the way. In 1997 she became the corporate director of occupational health for the system where she has been responsible for management of all occupational health services for Meridian. In her new position at Ocean Medical Center, Lantz will work with administration and the medical staff to develop, implement and monitor the hospital’s strategic planning process and business activities. She will also focus on physician development plans and clinical programming while providing local business planning and project management. Lantz will also identify new products and business opportunities in an effort to promote growth at the hospital.

Epstein first came to Meridian as a registered pharmacist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center in 1981 and most recently has served as the pharmacy manager at Ocean Medical Center, where he has led Meridian Health and Ocean Medical Center in medication management and safety initiatives. Epstein earned his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy and his master’s degree in business administration from Monmouth University. In his new position as vice president of operations, Epstein will be responsible for many departments and services at Ocean Medical Center including access services, laboratory, maintenance and engineering, materials management, medical records, nutrition services, oncology, pastoral care, pharmacy, plant operations, radiology, risk management, security, sleep lab, telecommunications and volunteer services.

The New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) recently held a Law Enforcement Appreciation Ceremony at The College of New Jersey, Ewing.

Thirty-three corrections officers, parole officers and investigators who earned promotions or special awards were recognized. Also honored were officers who recently returned from service in the various branches of the U.S. armed forces, as well as JJC retirees.

Senior Corrections Officer John Moore of Brick received a commendation for participation on the Essex County Anti-crime Partnership in Irvington.

Senior Investigator Eric Cloud of Brick received a commendation for participating with the Mercer County Fugitive Task Force.