Hospital budget, tax rate adopted

By Melinda L. Lucas

With very little discussion, directors of the Shackelford County Hospital District okayed the proposed budget and tax rate at meeting on Monday, Sept. 16.

A budget of $2,957,259 was approved unanimously on a motion by Janna Ledbetter, with a second by Mike Folsom.

The proposed tax rate, which is the effective rate of 18.81 cents, was adopted on a motion by Ledbetter, seconded by Folsom.

The adopted rate is more than two cents less than last year’s rate (20.97 cents) because of slightly higher valuations.

The effective rate is based on the latest county valuations and is calculated to bring in the same amount as last year’s rate, less new properties.

Clinic Reimbursements

District administrator Jera Fairley reported that the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is considering a change to “bundled rates,” giving reimbursements for combined visits, x-rays, labs, etc.) for all clinic visits rather than for individual services.

Although this proposal may not be enacted, board president John Ayers said that the board is choosing to be proactive and is looking into the possible benefits of becoming a Rural Health Center, for which the reimbursement process is different.

Other Business

•Pharmacist Eric Neal told directors that Sanders Drug Store was $57,432 under projected expenses so far for 2019.

•Fairley stated that clinic patients will be required to show their insurance cards at each visit starting Oct. 1.

•She also said that there are two grants that can be used for medical equipment, if approved.

•A five-minute closed session about personnel at the end of the district portion of the meeting resulted in no action.