Finances drive REH conversion
One hospital’s conversion to a rural emergency hospital (REH) has reversed its financial challenges and allowed service changes sought by the local community. Negative operating margins were the norm for Mercy Hospital in Moundridge, Kansas, for more than 10 years before it considered a major strategic shift. The 15-bed prospective payment system rural hospital came…
More rural hospitals adopt critical access status to boost finances
Rural hospitals are converting to critical access hospital status to reduce their inpatient beds and become eligible for the 340B discount drug program, which is helping some facilities improve their financial operations.