KVHD thinking outside the box

KVHD CEO Tim McGlew addresses the board about potential new sources of revenue for the district at last week’s monthly meeting as board member Bob Jamison looks on.

Susan Barr
Kern Valley Sun

Michael Goosby, Kern Valley Healthcare District’s Director of Nursing, has resigned after less than four months, reported CEO Tim McGlew at the Dec. 2 board meeting. The vacancy is being filled by Edith Cecil, District as the R.N. Care Manager for a little more than a year. “As the new Assistant Director of Nursing, Cecil already knows all of the residents, the staff and the administration, so she has a head start, said CCO Cynthia Burciaga.

Board members and hospital administration focused on medical services such as opthalmology, neurology, wound care and psychiatry that could bring in much-needed revenue.

CFO Chet Beedle delivered good and bad financial news. “We have begun to see increase in our acute care census,” he said, adding, “The problem we are having and have had for the past couple of months is a decrease in our referred outpatient volume. These are the ancillary services such as labs and imaging services that are sent to us from the doctor’s offices.” Beedle received the green light to proceed with obtaining American Express credit account; in excess of $90,000 can now be be used with specific vendors, allowing the retail pharmacy to purchase drugs that are currently requiring C.O.D.

McGlew said administrators have been meeting with departments seeking creative ways to cut costs and add revenue. “What we are trying to do is to grow business here, McGlew said.

McGlew said they are exploring the addition of services such as neurology, opthalmology and wound care.

After adjournment, Teri Smith of Bodfish, a health care professional said, “I think it’s really exciting to hear that the CEO and the board are thinking outside the walls of the hospital and are looking at ancillary services they can add into the mix. It will not only benefit the hospital, but more importantly the patients and the community.

On a different note, Ron Boylard of Kernville, commented, “I was disappointed with the financial report and the lack of census. I think that is something we really need to work on. But I do think overall the hospital is moving in the proper direction.”

The next KVHD Board of Directors meeting is set for Jan. 6 in the hospital cafeteria.