Hospital names director for infection prevention

The Reading Health System has a new medical director for infection prevention.

Dr. Debra Powell started in the position Monday after serving as chief of the infectious disease section for the health system.

Powell replaces Dr. Robert Jones, who is pursuing a new career with Quest Diagnostics in Virginia.

Powell joined Reading Health in July 2008 and is a provider with Reading Health Physician Network — Infectious Diseases

She currently serves on several committees with the health system, including the Reading Health System Professional Practice Evaluation Committee, the Reading Health Physician Network Quality Improvement Committee and the Reading Health System Infection Control Committee.

Powell, along with Jones, also co-hosted a “Good Thyme for Life” fundraiser for Co-County Wellness Services.

She completed a two-year fellowship in infectious diseases from Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, following a three-year internship with Reading Hospital.