Confluence Health appoints Dr. James Murray as Chief Medical Officer

Dr. James Murray

WENATCHEE - Confluence Health unveiled its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. James Murray, following approval by the Confluence Health Board. Dr. Murray, who had been serving as interim CMO since late July 2023, succeeds Dr. Jason Lake, the former CMO.

In this pivotal role, Dr. Murray will play a critical part in ensuring the delivery of safe and effective healthcare, aligning with Confluence Health's commitment to providing community-centered care. His responsibilities encompass operational leadership, collaboration with medical staff, and overseeing the healthcare system's operational aspects.

“Dr. Murray brings many years of experience to this position, not only in medicine and healthcare leadership but in understanding our community and its needs,” remarked Dr. Jennifer Jorgensen, president of the Wenatchee Valley Medical Group, the largest physician group affiliated with Confluence Health. “We are  excited to have him take on this

important role.”

Boasting board certification from the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Murray commenced his journey with what would later become Confluence Health in 2005 as a hospitalist. His professional background includes a residency in internal medicine at Grand Rapids Medical Education and Research, Michigan, as well as an internship in general surgery at Portsmouth Naval Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia. He attained his medical degree from Loyola University.

With a focus on critical care and medical education, Dr. Murray most recently held roles as the medical director for inpatient medicine and the core medical director for specialty and ancillary medicine for Confluence Health.

“I am in full support of the Confluence Health Board’s selection and know that Dr. Murray’s years of leadership experience and the respect he has earned among his colleagues will make him an excellent CMO,” commented Dr. Andrew Jones, CEO of Confluence Health. “During his time as interim CMO, Dr. Murray has already ably stepped into the role and come rapidly up to speed on the challenges and opportunities we have. The executive leadership team has valued his input and insights and we want to congratulate and welcome him as he officially assumes the CMO role.”

Dr. Murray assumes the role of CMO equipped with extensive expertise, a deep understanding of the community's healthcare needs, and a proven track record in healthcare leadership, signaling a promising trajectory for Confluence Health under his guidance.