Hospital reports strong finances, looks ahead to expansion

Board weighs new projects and oncology options after Powell ends cancer program

The North Big Horn Hospital District Board met October 21 on the second floor of the New Horizons Care Center and heard encouraging financial news, approved new equipment purchases and outlined plans for future clinic and facility expansion.

Hospital Administrator Eric Connell optimistically reported that, though salary and benefit costs are about $215,000 over budget, largely due to overtime, the increase has been more than offset by higher revenues.

“Our goal is to stay positive each month,” Connell said. “Right now, we’re exceeding that goal.”

The district’s total cash position stands at roughly $15.3 million, comparable to previous months. Connell also explained that ERP funds were moved into a higher-interest account to increase earnings.

Clinic loan paid off

One of the highlights of the meeting came when Connell announced that the loan for the clinic remodel has been completely paid off. The loan, which financed a major renovation of the clinic several years ago, will be fully retired this week.

“The clinic is all paid off,” Connell told the board. “We’ve met every obligation on schedule, and this positions us for whatever comes next.”

Equipment and access upgrades

Board members approved several purchases aimed at improving patient safety and accessibility:

• Cystoscopes for women’s surgery -- equipment that allows physicians to better visualize the urinary tract during procedures.

• Automatic door openers for the clinic’s main hallway to assist patients using walkers and wheelchairs.

• Omnicell medication cabinet upgrades for the ER, Med-Surg and clinic departments. The upgrade is required to maintain manufacturer support beyond 2025 and extends system life through 2030.

“These are the kinds of investments that directly improve patient care,” Connell said.

Oncology services
under review

A major topic of discussion centered on oncology care. With Powell Valley Healthcare recently announcing the end of its cancer treatment program, the Lovell board turned its attention to how best to fill that gap for local patients.

Connell said the district is exploring several options but is not currently positioned to support a full-time oncologist. Instead, the board is reviewing three possible models for providing cancer care locally.

Connell outlined three possible models now under review:

A tele-oncology partnership with a regional hospital such as Intermountain Health

A part-time oncologist serving patients locally or

A nurse practitioner or physician assistant linked to a larger oncology center.

Connell has directed his team to create a detailed cost analysis for each option.

“We’re not ready to make a recommendation yet,” Connell said, “but our goal is to find a sustainable solution that allows our residents to receive cancer care close to home.”

Facility plans and SLIB requests

Architect Alan Godfrey of A&E Architects presented conceptual designs for two potential building projects: a significant upgrade of the cafeteria nicknamed the “Bistro” and a second-floor clinic expansion.

The bistro project, estimated at about $380,000, would update the hospital’s dining area with new lighting, seating and layout to create a more inviting space for patients, visitors and staff.

The clinic expansion would finish out existing shell space to add five exam rooms and one treatment room, accommodating up to three providers. Connell said the project would take nine to 12 months to complete if approved.

Both projects may be included in funding requests submitted to the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB). The district expects to learn in early 2026 which projects might receive support.

Leadership and staff updates

The board approved the reappointment of 16 medical staff members and advanced practice privileges for Bart Jones. In staffing news, Vivia Tippets was hired as Resident Care Manager in the Care Center. Tippets previously oversaw assisted living operations before relocating and recently returned to the community.

Clinic director Amber James was also recognized as “Leader of the Quarter.” Connell said the recognition marked a small change in policy, allowing senior leaders to be eligible for the award.

“Amber has done such an outstanding job, and we felt she deserved it,” he said.

Looking ahead

The hospital’s strategic planning session is scheduled for November 20, with help from HealthTech consultants. The retreat will examine long-range needs, including space, staffing and new service lines.

Board president Dave Winterholler said the district’s progress reflects the commitment of its employees and leadership.

“We’ve paid off major debt, stayed ahead of budget and continue to add services that matter to this community,” he said. “It’s a good place to be.”

The next regular board meeting will be Tuesday, Nov. 18.