Local media report Parkland's CEO finalist

Parkland's Board of Managers named Frederick P. Cerise, MD to serve as Chief Executive Officer, subject to contract negotiations. Dr. Cerise has worked extensively in large public hospital systems that serve patient populations similar to Parkland. Most recently he was associate dean for clinical affairs at Louisiana State University. The story was reported by The Dallas Morning News, KERA-FM (NPR), KRLD-AM, KDFW-TV (Fox 4), and KXAS-TV (NBC 5).

The Dallas Morning News reported that the main hospital building of the new Parkland hospital will be completed this year. Following the building's completion, equipment will be tested and staff will be trained in the new hospital before it begins welcoming patients in May 2015.

Ken Cheatle, chief of the Dallas County Hospital District Police Department (DCHD), has been named a finalist for the 2014 Healthcare Director of the Year by Campus Safety magazine. The magazine cited Cheatle's notable achievements, including ensuring a diverse department and starting an emergency medical technician program for officers.

Parkland's Southeast Dallas Health Center will help area residents to take a step toward good health by hosting the Winter Care Fair on Saturday, Feb. 8. The Dallas Morning News reported that the free health fair will include health information in both English and Spanish, health screenings and information about community resources.

Taking the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent getting the flu, but it's not the only preventive measure. Parkland pediatrician Suzette Baez-Couch spoke on KUVN-TV (Univision 23) about the vaccine and the other ways to prevent the flu, including proper hand hygiene.

Parkland will provide rapid HIV testing.