Hospital Makes Plans for the Future
Press Release
May 1, 2006
The Claiborne County Hospital Board of Directors met on Tuesday, April 19, 2006. Agenda items included a review of the quality management report, approval of new physicians, March financial review, an update on new services and a report on facility development. The quality management report is reviewed regularly by medical staff and board members. This report demonstrated continued improvement in quality initiatives for the organization. In addition to the medical staff report on quality, several new physicians were approved for privileges at the hospital including several radiologists as well as a new Ophthalmologist, John Carson, M.D., and a new general surgeon, Robert Wilmoth, M.D.
During the financial report for March, it was noted that performance was better for the month due to several areas of cost containment and improvement in collections. To participate in cost savings, the board voted to move the regular board meetings to 6pm (one hour earlier) and meals would be available in the cafeteria.
Hospital administrator, Tim Brown, reported that the new sleep center is open and busy. It is benefiting residents of Claiborne and surrounding counties by providing a tool for local physicians to diagnose sleep apnea and related health issues while keeping the patient under their care.
A presentation was given by the rehabilitation department regarding a new service, lymphedema therapy, which can bring relief to patients who need assistance with circulation and fluid accumulation resulting in visible changes in appearance and often stems from surgery or disease treatment. CCH is only one of a few providers in the state to have staff specifically trained in this therapy.
Last, but not least, a presentation was made regarding facility development and concepts concerning growth in services needed for the benefit of the community and the hospital. Due to technology growth and changes in the delivery of healthcare, a continued move to outpatient services is necessary. The hospital has identified several new services which could help keep patients from traveling outside of the area and bring growth and jobs to the community. One of the key components of hospital settings across the nation is a medical office complex at the hospital. The board reviewed concepts regarding a new three story building just below the hospital which could house physician offices as well as an outpatient therapy center. The building is expected to assist the hospital in attracting specialists into our area and benefit the community. The board discussed financing and estimated costs of the building, and after a lengthy discussion by board members regarding the increasing need for this type of facility, a unanimous approval was given. The estimated cost of the building and renovations near $4 million and the initial building phase is estimated to take a year. Virgil Herrell, Claiborne County Mayor, commented that this is something that has been needed and will support the hospital and residents of Claiborne County for many years to come.
