PAWTUCKET – Memorial Hospital of Rhode Island, in the midst of talks with Care New England to discuss a potential merger, has named two new members to its business team. Thomas Gough has been appointed senior vice president of business development, administration and practice operations.

Robert Ackerman has been appointed vice president of information services.

Gough will be responsible for strategic business-development initiatives, including market forecasting, development of business plans, analysis of statistical data and negotiation of contracts and pay-for performance agreements with third-party insurers.

Ackerman will be responsible for aligning existing clinical-computerization projects with federal incentives, completing gap analysis and negotiating contracts for necessary software systems and upgrades. •