North Big Horn Hospital Board reports positive growth

The North Big Horn Hospital District Board of Trustees received encouraging financial, patient-care and construction updates during its regular meeting October 20, while also discussing a short-term cash-flow issue connected to a major federal payment cycle.

The meeting opened with a patient safety story shared by Quality Director Catherine Herman. A patient praised the work of hospital employees across the organization, calling the hospital “a treasure to this community” and commending care from the clinic, radiology, physical therapy, emergency room and other departments.

The finance committee reported a positive September. Trustees were told the hospital had budgeted for a 0.6% loss for the month but finished with a result 5.7% positive to budget.

Russ Kemp appeared before the board to introduce himself as a write-in candidate for an at-large trustee position in the November 3 election. Kemp said he and his wife moved to the area six years ago after his career in small-business consulting.

The board did not endorse a candidate but welcomed residents interested in serving or writing in a candidate.

The board approved the reappointment of Michael Asay, MPAS, PA-C, to advanced practice professional staff privileges and approved medical staff privileges for Jeremy Fullingim, DO, in radiology.

The need for expanded pain management services has also been discussed. Board members identified a need for a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) with expertise in pain management, along with an additional CRNA credentialed to provide those services. The board indicated that additional staffing would help the district meet both current and future patient needs.

Clinic activity remained strong. The North Big Horn Hospital District Clinic completed 1,509 patient visits in September, slightly above its target of 1,500 visits per month. The clinic reported 1,629 visits in August.

The clinic also accommodated 83 same-day patient requests in September after handling 89 in August. Board reports noted that Joel Robertson, PA-C, began working in the clinic August 10 and has quickly become busy with primary care and same-day patient needs.

Patient feedback remained positive. The clinic’s latest survey showed 87.7% of responding patients agreed staff members were helpful, courteous and respectful, exceeding the clinic’s 85% target. Recent comments praised providers and staff for listening carefully, showing compassion and helping patients feel comfortable.

Surgical patient surveys were also notably positive. The hospital received 49 surveys from general surgery, oncology, gynecology and orthopedic patients from June through August. The overall average satisfaction score was 99%, and every respondent indicated they would recommend the hospital.

Abigail “Abby” Luna, a member of the North Big Horn Hospital District’s dietary team, was named October Employee of the Month. Luna was recognized for her friendly personality, professional appearance and consistently positive attitude.

Trustees also received an update on the district’s Heartsaver CPR and First Aid outreach program and the work that Nick Lewis does. Hospital instructors have provided training at no charge to the Lovell and Deaver fire departments, Big Horn County Search and Rescue, area high school seniors, the sheriff’s office and jail staff. More than 154 people received the training during the past calendar year, according to the report.

Construction and facility planning continue. Flooring work in the New Horizons Care Center is progressing, with earlier phases completed and the next phase anticipated to begin in November. Drywall work has started on the clinic expansion, and leaders are developing plans and pricing for additional infusion space. Work is also underway on the hospital bistro, including review of ventilation needs and aging equipment.

Hospital leaders announced that healthcare author Quint Studer will spend November 18 with the organization’s leadership team and will participate in a community session in Cowley that evening focused on building vibrant communities. Trustees said the event will bring together local government, education and business leaders.

The hospital foundation reported that its recent golf tournament drew 23 teams and raised $4,069 in net proceeds. The district also reported receiving $1 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program and an $8,624 workforce training grant for nurses.