Md. hospital leader named to head national group

Richard J. Davidson, longtime president of the Maryland Hospital Association, has been selected as the new president of the American Hospital Association.

C. Thomas Smith, chairman of the AHA board of trustees, announced the board's decision after a six-month national search yesterday.

During his 22 years as president of the Maryland Hospital Association, Mr. Davidson has guided Maryland hospitals through the development of a state hospital rate-setting system and assorted other changes in how hospitals serve their communities.

Mr. Davidson, who is married and has three sons, holds a doctorate in education from George Washington University.

Mr. Davidson, 54, will join the Chicago-based not-for-profit association, which serves as a national advocate for hospitals, July 15.

L He will replace Carol M. McCarthy, who resigned in November.