HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-0706.HOSPITAL.MIN (ANNUAL)MINUTES OF THE ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
ANNUAL HOSPITAL BOARD GENERAL MEETING
July 6, 1999
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Shaw called the meeting to order at 6:50 p.m., Civic Center Council Chambers.
ROLL CALL
Councilors Laws, Reid, Hauck, Hanson, Wheeldon, and Fine were present.
STATUS OF ASHLAND COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE SERVICES BOARD REPORT
Ashland Community Healthcare Services Administrator Jim Watson introduced Controller Mike McGraw, board chair
Patty Acklin and board member Mavis Cloutlet.
Watson recognized Mayor Shaw for her attendance of all board meetings. Noted the hospital's growth over the past
year, and emphasized the need for more space to add beds and expand the kitchen and cafeteria. Stated that growth has
even put pressure on the surgical theatre, although it is new.
Pointed out that the hospital now employs over 300 people, and there are nearly 200 physicians. Also recognized the
hospital auxiliary for their efforts, and noted that they now have over 100 members. Explained that the Foundation has
29 board members, and that they have had a busy year, gifting nearly $1/2 million to the hospital. Noted that staff serve
on the board, as well as Paul Nicholsore Greg Willjams, and new appointee from the council, Jack Sabin.
Noted preparation being made for the Year 2000, and the recent creation of a web-page for the hospital. Also noted
that the recent obstetric unit remodel drew nearly 350 attendees to its open house. Emphasized the hospital's interest
in acquiring additional land to address needs brought on by growth. Stated that two additional properties have been
acquired through the foundation, along with the receipt of three grants.
Watson spoke on the challenges of the Balanced Budget Act, and noted that over a five year period it represents a $1
million reduction in funding.
Concluded by noting that he looks forward to networking with the physicians from the Medford Clinic as restructuring
occurs there. Introduced Mike McGraw, and noted h is good fortune in working with McGraw for the past twelve years.
McGraw spoke briefly on next year's budget, noting that a strong year is projected in 2000, and that they expect to
provide a mix of services with physicians in the valley. Stated that an 8% increase in utilization is forecast. Emphasized
that no additions are planned in the next year, but that there are plans to expand the surgery wing in two years. Stated
that the cafeteria will be the only major renovation in the next year.
Emphasized that target projections cannot fall below a 2 to I ratio, and stated that they are now at a 2.6, and are
projecting a 2.8 next year. Characterized the hospital's status as growing and strong. Also noted that they will be
looking at an expansion of the kitchen, and will come before the Council with that request at a later date.
Reid questioned how the current situation at the Medford Clinic would impact Ashland. Watson noted that alliances
are helpful, and discussed the restructuring occurring in Medford, with many physicians soon to become independent
of the clinic. Emphasized his hope that they will stay within the valley, either in independent practice or joining other
groups. Stated that it is his belief that surgical specialists from the Clinic will have a presence in Ashland.
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Discussed the fact that currently, only about sixty of the physicians on staff are Ashland based, with others working on
a consulting basis. Emphasized that more will move in as space allows, and stated that discussions relative to use of
available space and staff will occur with the Medford Clinic when possible.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m.
Submitted by Derek Severson, Assistant to the City Recorder
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