WTH Offers Clarification of How Financial Losses Will Affect Hospital
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JACKSON, Tenn – On Tuesday, West Tennessee Healthcare officials said they are forced to make cuts because they have lost money for the past eight months. On Wednesday, WTH CEO Bobby Arnold offered clarification about what this will mean for patients and any future plans for expansion.
His full statement is below:
West Tennessee Healthcare has faced financial challenges in the past and we have successfully addressed them without compromising patient care or making drastic adjustments in our workforce. We will work to adjust successfully to the current financial challenges in a similar manner and remain focused on our Mission and Vision. Our Mission is to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve while providing exceptional and compassionate care. Our Vision is to be chosen by our staff, our physicians and our community as the best place to work, the best place to practice and the best place to receive comprehensive care. We want our employees and the public to know that we are committed to providing high quality patient care and an attractive and stable work environment as we deal with these changes.
How will the continued loss of funds affect patient care?
We have been dealing with an uncertain financial environment for many years and have been able to provide safe, high quality care as evidenced by recognition such as the Healthgrades Patient Safety Award, certification as a Joint Commission Advanced Primary Stroke Center and other awards and certifications that can be found on our website. In these challenging times, we believe that our most important strategy for continued success is providing patient safety, clinical excellence, and patient service.
Does the state of the budget hurt doctor recruitment?
West Tennessee Healthcare has invested in the recruitment of 17 physicians to the Jackson area in 2013 and 12 to date in 2014. Physician recruitment to meet the needs of the community remains a necessary investment. Physicians are attracted by our high levels of patient care, skilled employees, and technology, as well as the quality of the community.
What is the next step if the hospital keeps losing money?
West Tennessee Healthcare is committed to maintaining the highest quality patient care and providing the most attractive and stable workplace possible. Our efforts to address financial challenges include more than managing human resources expenses. We are continuously evaluating and improving all areas of our operations, such as contracts and supplies, and making our processes more efficient.
What actions are hospital officials taking to put pressure on lawmakers for help?
We routinely provide information about these issues to the governor, our state lawmakers and the public through personal interactions and through the Tennessee Hospital Association and the Hospital Alliance of Tennessee.
Is this situation hindering any plans for expansion?
Our plans for growth and expansion of services are driven by community need. We continue to evaluate the addition of new services and expansion of existing ones based on what community residents need and the level of resources available.
