Dennis Knox, who oversaw the transition of Mid-Columbia Medical Center to Adventist Health Columbia Gorge during his seven years as President and CEO of the hospital in The Dalles, will be leaving that post on Thursday.  Knox told Adventist Health Columbia Gorge employees in an email late last week that his position had been eliminated as of this Thursday.  Knox said in the e-mail that to remain viable, healthcare organizations have seen an increase in “flattening,” which shrinks the organization by removing layers of the hierarchy.  He said Adventist Health Portland President Kyle King will become President of the newly named Adventist Health Oregon Service Area, while the former President of the Oregon State Network, Joyce Newmyer, will become the organization’s Chief People Officer.  Knox noted all other Adventist Health Columbia Gorge leadership team members remain in place at this time.  Knox’s career in health care has spanned 45 years, including the last seven in The Dalles.