St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute, in Spokane, has hired a new hospital administrator following a national search. Ulrike Berzau started at St. Luke's at the beginning of this month.

Berzau specializes in inpatient rehabilitation, ambulatory services, occupational medicine, and quality and service improvements. Before joining St. Luke's, she oversaw inpatient rehabilitation services at Spaulding Rehabilitation Network locations in Boston.

Berzau holds master's degrees in management and health science and majored in orthopedic physical therapy. She has worked in operations management and ambulatory services in the U.S., Egypt, and Germany, and is a surveyor for the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

"Ulrike's extensive outpatient and inpatient experience will only enhance St. Luke's position as the region's premier physical medicine and rehabilitation facility," says Phyllis Gabel, chief human resources officer for St. Luke's.

Berzau replaced Bob Quist, who acted as interim administrator while St. Luke's conducted a national search for a permanent administrator after former chief Chuck Gersdorf resigned for personal reasons.

St. Luke's, a division of the Spokane-based Inland Northwest Health Services, offers inpatient and outpatient therapy and rehabilitation treatment for stroke, spinal cord injuries, orthopedic issues, and brain injuries.