2018 hospital audit approved

By Melinda L. Lucas

The 2018 audit for the Shackelford County Hospital District was approved during the regular Oct. 21 meeting, bringing the entity up to date after the former auditor was unable to complete the two prior years.

Chase Sims of Condley & Company LLC gave a “clean report,” citing no deficiencies and only three minor problems, two of which have already been corrected or partially corrected for the current fiscal year.

“There was nothing unusual other than listing the lease of cardiac monitors as an operating lease rather than a capital lease,” said Sims. “Overall, the district’s net position continues to improve, which is an indication of good financial health.”

He also mentioned that he and district administrator Jera Fairley are working to get the hospital Foundation’s tax exempt status with the IRS reestablished. 

Board members okayed the audit on a motion by Janna Ledbetter.

Condley & Company will begin the 2019 audit next spring.

Other Business

•Fairley was given permission to submit a check for up to $190,000 for the new ambulance. Only $150,000 was budgeted, even though the ambulance was expected to cost $188,000, according to the original estimate.

•Fairley also described the possible bundled rates being considered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. She said that if the recommendation becomes reality, it might be beneficial for the clinic to become a Rural Health Clinic. She is still looking at options. 

•The board went into closed session for more than an hour to discuss a personnel issue, but took no action when the meeting was reopened.