CCHS making budget work hard

DAYTON–Columbia County Health System (CCHS) reported at the monthly Board meeting on April 27 a net loss for the third consecutive month. Project updates were also given for the Rivers Walk Assisted Living and the Acute Care Hallway with talk of a $400,000 addition for a ramp. Also reported was the continued work with the community towards opening a childcare facility with a public forum scheduled for May 23. A presentation was given to the Board from the Rural Collaborative which was founded to bolster rural healthcare through shared resources of its members.

Columbia County Health System CFO Matt Minor reported March financials hit a net loss of $112,000 contributing to the year-to-date loss of $308,000. The net patient revenue was $300,000 higher than budgeted, but this was offset by an overage of operating expenses of $285,000 which is attributed mainly to purchase services and professional fees with some impact from salaries and benefits, as well as supply costs.

Board Chair Bob Hutchens commented to say that it has been noted that some of the expenses are budgeted for and are high now in order to purchase ahead due to the supply chain disruption.

CEO Shane McGuire referenced a recent study on rural hospitals when he said in his report, "We are experiencing the highest operational costs witnessed throughout the industry with labor and supply expenses profoundly impacting hospital financials in quarter one."

McGuire stated the four Rivers Walk Assisted Living cottages all have trusses and sheeting with roofing mostly complete on three. Interior work of insulation and sheetrock is being put up in one with insulation also added in between rooms.

In addition, McGuire approached the Board about the addition of a ramp to the Acute Care Hallway Project design which would increase the cost by $400,000. Grant money has been received for the project, but the remainder would have to come from a low interest loan at 2.5% through the USDA regardless of whether they pursue the addition.

A community informational forum for a childcare facility is scheduled for May 23 and is likely to be held at the Youth Building at the fairgrounds. Terry Nealey has agreed to facilitate the forum which will be hosted by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce. A panel of individuals will be presenting updates and information about the project from YWCA, CCHS, Dayton School District, County Prosecutor Dale Slack, and some business leaders.

McGuire is concerned about public support with seeing the trend of community projects being voted down, but he expressed commitment as a partner with other organizations and individuals to meet the need for childcare in Dayton. He said the project has been awarded about $550,000 with other funding being sought. The committee continues to search for a suitable site.

The Board heard a presentation given by a representative of Rural Collaborative whose mission is to defend, create and design the future of rural healthcare through collective strategy and action.

The organization serves all of Washington and beyond and currently has 23 members from 23 counties. Their purpose is to collaborate the resources of members within the system to network to improve performance of all members and the communities they serve. The financial benefits are the products and services offered, as well as shared services and programs and substantial insurance savings.