PHOENIX (March 24, 2008) – Karin Toci, RN, has accepted the position of chief nursing officer (CNO) at Banner Estrella Medical Center. Toci, who has served as director of Quality Management at Banner Estrella since March 2007, has served as interim chief nursing officer since Jan. 1, when Diane Drexler resigned to pursue other opportunities. Banner Estrella has immediately begun the search for a new Quality Management director.

“There are a lot of reasons Karin was the ideal choice for this position, but what really makes me excited about her is the fact that we have someone who is deeply committed to quality and safety – now with the operational responsibility and authority to bring these goals to life every day for every patient. We all win having a nursing leader with that level of commitment,” said CEO Kathy Bollinger.

“I am proud to join the Banner Estrella Medical Center administrative team,” said Toci. “In the year I have been at the hospital, I have been amazed at the level of patient care, quality, and safety at Banner Estrella. I look forward to leading the clinical staff in continuing to make a difference in people’s lives through excellent patient care.”

Toci brings 27 years of experience in nursing, leadership, and quality management. She received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1981 from University of Arizona.

Banner Estrella Medical Center, located on the southeast corner of the Loop 101 Freeway and Thomas Road, is a full-service hospital offering general surgery, orthopedics, OB services, cardiac services with open-heart surgery and emergency services. Banner Estrella is part of Banner Health, the leading provider of health care services in the Valley with eight hospitals.