HSCMH sets meeting to discuss billing

The Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital board met Monday evening and Tuesday at noon this week to discuss the upcoming hospital insurance/billing questions review, MRI updates, and recent surveys.

The first public review session is scheduled for August 10 at 6:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. The purpose of medical record numbers, which is a number issued to everyone upon entrance to the hospital for billing purposes and is not the same as an account number, will be reviewed. The importance of the registration process as well as self-pay and collection agencies will also be discussed.

County Commissioner John Lumley chose to withdraw from his position as liaison and Brad Basse will assume the role. Discussion of seeking additional sales tax, a new district, and a new contract for the hospital master plan were also reviewed for commissioner input at a later date.

Floor support for the hospital MRI was identified as a priority considering the current crack in the floor. Construction estimate for support of the floor has been approximated at $100,000. Vibration tests were conducted. This test would pass if a special pad is added or floor supports are installed. Repair costs of the current MRI and financing options were also reviewed. The board was interested in financing with First American Finance but determined the best action would be to look for a match of 3.18% financing from local banks. Bank of Thermopolis has already offered to match this rate.

August will be the start of board self-assessments from Health Tech. Results will be compiled and presented at the board meeting in September. Employee Engagement surveys were conducted earlier this month and showed disappointing results. From these surveys, each department selected two items that needed to be improved and are currently making plans for improvement. A follow-up survey will be conducted in October.