Col. Brian T. Canfield did not have to leave the U.S. Army to become the new chief operating officer at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital.

“I loved my 28 years in the Army, but this opportunity was one I didn’t want to miss out on,” Canfield said Thursday. “It’s just a phenomenal opportunity to join great team and to continue making a difference in people’s lives in this region.

“It was one of those moments where you’ve got to reach for it and take it.”

FirstHealth of the Carolinas announced Thursday that Canfield, commanding officer for Womack Medical Center at Fort Bragg, will assume his new position in September.

“After a nationwide search, we were pleased to find a great candidate right in this region,” FirstHealth CEO David J. Kilarski said. “Col. Canfield’s accomplished military career demonstrates a track record of consistent positive performance, and his dedication to quality patient care services is provided in a customer-focused manner. He will contribute greatly to FirstHealth’s commitment to providing an exceptional patient experience.”

Canfield, 51, comes to FirstHealth following his retirement this summer from the Army, where he had served as a Medical Service Corps officer since 1984. His prior assignments included hospital and health care administrative positions throughout the United States and abroad.

Canfield was named commanding officer at Womack in July 2010, his fourth assignment at Fort Bragg during his career.

“My wife, Kate, and I have spent plenty of time in Moore County over the years. In fact, Pinehurst is one of our favorite places,” he said. “We’re both from Minnesota, so climate and location were big factors.”

The Canfields, who have four adult children, hope to spend more time with their family now that they know their globetrotting days are over.

“I’ve been toying with the idea of switching careers from the military to the private sector for the last five to eight years,” Brian Canfield said. “We’re very fond of the state of North Carolina, so the opportunity to join FirstHealth was a great fit.”

The Canfields are already renting a house in Pinewild.

“It all unfolded rather quickly, so we aren’t even fully living there yet,” he said. “We hope to finish the process this weekend.”

Canfield received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Bemidji State University; a master’s in business administration from Western New England College in Massachusetts; and a master’s in health care administration from Baylor University. He also earned his master’s degree in National Security Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He is an Associate in the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Canfield, who was offered the job last month, said it took him less than 24 hours to make a decision.

“I’m absolutely pleased as punch with the opportunity to join such a first-class institution as FirstHealth,” he said. “I’m really look forward to being a part of their team.”

Contact Ted M. Natt Jr. at (910) 693-2474 or tnatt@the-pilot.com.