Mercy Memorial Hospital System (MMHS) announced that it has engaged Juniper Advisory, LLC, to conduct a strategic assessment of the health system’s future options which could include remaining independent, seeking a partner, or merging with another system. The assessment is expected to be completed by early summer 2014.
MMHS President and CEO Annette S. Phillips stated, “Nationwide, hospitals and health systems like us are facing unprecedented challenges and increased competition that may make it difficult to remain independent. We want to take a responsible approach to changing conditions. The Board of Trustees has launched an effort to proactively research and examine our options while we are in a strong financial position. No decisions have been made and we have not engaged in any discussions with other systems.”
Some of the issues facing health systems across the country include new, constantly changing regulations that are significantly reducing Medicare reimbursements. Additionally, health benefit changes are encouraging fewer admissions and outpatient services, and increasing charity care.
Donald A. Spencer, Ed.D, chairman of the MMHS Board of Trustees, noted, “We have successfully served the community since 1929. We have made great improvements over the years, and we intend to remain a strong, vital health care resource for the Monroe community.”
MMHS is conducting a series of meetings with employees and medical staff to explain the assessment process and to provide accurate information. Regular updates will be provided as information becomes available, and will be posted online at www.mercymemorial.org.
“We will communicate openly and honestly with all of our stakeholders throughout the evaluation,” Phillips stated. “We will continue to provide leading edge, high quality health care and do not anticipate any changes in services during the assessment period.”
Following the assessment period, the Board of Trustees will decide upon any future course of action. A decision is expected in early summer 2014.
