The Bradley County Medical Center Board of Directors met Thursday, Oct. 23, where members heard financial updates, approved the purchase of new equipment, and discussed upcoming programs.
After approval of the September meeting minutes, Controller Matt Pace presented the financial report, noting that patient days for both the hospital and the Rural Health Clinic were slightly higher compared to the previous month. Accounts receivable decreased by $240,000, and an additional $115,000 was added to the sales tax fund.
Year-to-date, speech therapy services have seen a 30 percent increase from last year, while clinic visits are up 9.33 percent. The hospital reported $3.4 million in gross patient revenue and $1.6 million in operating revenue for the month, resulting in a $130,000 loss. For the year, BCMC reported $43 million in gross patient revenue and $20.7 million in operating revenue, producing a net income of $712,000. Pace also noted an increase in cash on hand compared to last year.
CEO and COO Leslie Huitt expressed concern about declining patient volume and lower collections. “We have got to improve our cash collection,” she said. Huitt added that the ongoing federal government shutdown has delayed claims processing for Medicare, Tricare, VA and ChampVA, impacting cash flow.
Despite those challenges, Huitt said patient volumes began trending upward in September and October. She also reported that the hospital’s portable X-ray machine had malfunctioned but has since been repaired. The board approved the purchase of a new portable X-ray machine, which will be bid out before purchase. Huitt also noted that speed bumps are being installed on Jolly Street near the hospital.
Chief Nursing Officer Jamie Wolfe announced that BCMC will host its second diabetic education class on Nov. 10 at 10 a.m. following positive feedback from the first session. The hope is to offer the classes monthly going forward. Wolfe said he was pleased to welcome LPN students from the University of Arkansas at Monticello and South Arkansas Community College for clinical training at BCMC. Huitt shared that one SouthArk student expressed appreciation for the hospital, saying they felt respected and valued by staff. Wolfe commended Dr. Biggers and the emergency department team for handling an increased patient load in recent weeks.
Wolfe also reported a decline in COVID-19 cases, with only two confirmed in October compared to 11 in September. He said there has been just one reported case of influenza over the past two months.
COO Leeanna Williams announced that Cardiac Rehabilitation services will begin Nov. 3.
After approving two annual policies and three new ones, the board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters.
The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 12:30 p.m.
