Washington Court House, OHIO (April 6, 2020) – Due to a decline in
patient volume in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fayette County Memorial
Hospital (FCMH) has had to furlough seventy-one of its 352 full and part-time
employees beginning April 1 and lasting at least thirty days. By utilizing
the furlough process these healthcare workers will retain their health
insurance with the organization.
“Between increased expenses around the crisis response – through
the purchase of medical supplies and technology – and the decline
in the number of people coming through our doors for care, we have reached
a point where we need to reduce expenses,” said Diener. “Should
patient volume change, we can certainly call those employees back prior
to the expected May 1 return date. It’s been a very difficult decision,
but it’s what we must do to get through this unprecedented time.”
Due to COVID-19, FCMH experienced a 46% drop in daily outpatient revenue
in March, a number that has already climbed to 56% through the first five
days of April. FCMH also experienced a 27% decline in patient volume within
the Medical & Surgical Associates practice which encompasses the family
practice and same day care clinic. Like many hospitals, FCMH relies heavily
on outpatient volume for sustainability with 85% of total patient volume
coming from outpatient business.
Diener emphasizes that the organization is staffing the facility according
to patient volume and no patient care is being compromised. “We
have been caring for this community for 70 years and in order for us to
continue to be the health and wellness provider of choice in Fayette County,
we must take some drastic measures now for the long term viability of
our organization.”
FCMH has been thrown into a perfect storm and according to Diener, is one
in which many hospitals are finding themselves. “We are not alone
in taking this measure. Many hospitals and healthcare organizations around
the nation, who are not yet in a hot zone, are in the same situation,”
said Diener. “Healthcare is hurting.”
The facility has followed the orders enacted by the Ohio Department of
Health and Governor DeWine. On March 17th all elective, non-urgent surgeries
were cancelled. “At the same time, the community has had a heightened
awareness about COVID-19, the spread of the virus and the stay-at-home
order,” said Diener. “As a result, we started seeing a major
decline in the number of people coming to the emergency department and
to the same day care clinic. People are asking themselves if their injury
or illness can be managed at home before they come to us for care.”
Other patients who might be more vulnerable to COVID-19 have been asked
to reschedule their appointment either to a later date or via telehealth
when appropriate.
“We will continue to monitor our expenses and revenue and adjust
accordingly, said Diener.” “This is a very difficult time
for everyone. Our goal is to make it through this together.”