On the common month-to-month board assembly of Estes Park Well being, board members heard a report on the monetary well being of the hospital.

Interim Chief Monetary Officer Dave Timpe stated EPH ha 167 days of money readily available, or sufficient cash for the well being system to function if there have been no revenue. That’s about five-and-a-half months of cash accessible which places EPH in a great place amongst essential entry care hospitals of comparable dimension and in comparable settings. The typical amount of money readily available for such services is about 66 days.

Nonetheless, board members encourage the finance division to assist inform the Board of Trustees on monetary issues in a well timed trend. There’s nonetheless no official audit from 2021 primarily resulting from Finance Division workers shortages and turnover. Audit is on monitor to be accomplished by October 1. Additionally, the present monetary studies for EPH solely undergo Could.

“As a board member, I feel it’s unacceptable to not have a 2021 audit by now,” emphasised Drew Webb. “I perceive you might be doing every thing you possibly can and that staffing has been a difficulty. Now we have carried out a strategic plan to alter some companies and I consider financially we are going to get higher shortly.”

Board member Steve Alper additionally chimed in and famous that the Finance Committee must have information as quickly as doable.

“We have to get studies which can be required to make well timed and clever determination in regards to the group,” Alper burdened. “We want to ensure targets are met.”

Timpe reported that the price of contract labor continues to drive up prices, doubling from Could of 2021 to Could of 2022.

COVID replace

In Larimer County, the group charge of COVID is low, however the transmission charge is excessive, which means people who find themselves round contaminated sufferers are nonetheless extremely prone to catching it.

Chief of Employees Dr. Robyn Zehr reported that the EPH clinic now solely affords Moderna vaccines. Everybody from six months of age to the aged are eligible for vaccinations.

“We’re doing an awesome job of getting our kiddos vaccinated,” Zehr stated, “however we have to proceed to push ahead. I’m comfortable individuals need it.”

Zehr stated EPH holds a childhood vaccination clinic every Friday.

Board member Webb inquired of Zehr if EPH thinks it’s essential for youngsters to get the COVID vaccine.

“The truth is that if you happen to take a look at the info, the effectiveness in stopping sickness if 47% to 65%,” she famous. “Nevertheless, the vaccine prevents a multi-inflammatory response that may trigger extra critical illness.”

Zehr additionally said the COVID vaccines are nonetheless free.

“COVID is getting higher,” she added, “but it surely’s nonetheless right here.”

Different EPH points

Zehr reported that the workers has been educated on monkey pox and what indicators and signs to search for. Nevertheless, EPH won’t present the vaccine in Estes Park.

“We don’t wish to take vaccines from locations that want is extra,” she commented.

Zehr additionally reported that the Emergency Division and Pressing Care have skilled excessive summer season volumes, with a major leap in Pressing Care volumes in comparison with final summer season.

Strategic Actions

Earlier this month, the Board voted to switch child deliveries and inpatient pediatric care to companions in different cities. These modifications will happen by Dec. 31.

After 9 conferences explaining the service line modifications to the group, Board Chair David Batey stated he nonetheless feels the necessity to dispel rumors circulating round city.

“There are rumors we’re going to cease providing residence well being/hospice/residence care,” Batey stated. “That isn’t true. We’re looking for one other group to associate with, however we aren’t going to cease these companies.”

CEO Vern Carda reported that 15 chemotherapy sufferers have returned to EPH for his or her remedies.

“We’re off and operating with that program,” he stated.

Batey stated the board with be having a hybrid in-person/digital assembly on Thursday, Sept. 1, at 5:30 p.m. to debate questions from some involved residents about current modifications. For extra info, go online to the EPH web site at eph.org.