Rumford Hospital to be reimbursed for much of MaineCare costs

The following article appeared in today's issue of the Sun Journal:

By Eileen M. Adams, Staff Writer
Published Feb 10, 2011

RUMFORD — Rumford Hospital Chief Executive Officer John Welsh was pleased that the state is scheduled to begin repaying overdue MaineCare reimbursements, a plan that will provide the local facility with some cash reserves and a chance to replace some critical care equipment.

The hospital is one of three dozen statewide that is scheduled to receive overdue MaineCare funding.

For Rumford, that figure is estimated to be just over $1.9 million, which represents MaineCare funds owed from 2007, 2008 and part of 2009.

“This is a first step. We look forward to working with the Legislature and administration to get the rest,” Welsh said.

He's unsure how much more is owed, but said it is less than the $1.9 million.

The announcement that Maine's hospitals will receive partial MaineCare reimbursements was made through a news release sent from Gov. Paul LePage's office Tuesday evening. It is part of a supplemental state budget.

Rumford Hospital is part of the Central Maine Healthcare. It also includes Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, which is scheduled to receive $32.6 million, and Bridgton Hospital, which will receive about $4.5 million.

Welsh said the local hospital has been without cash reserves for a couple of years. The 400 employees of Rumford Hospital, Rumford Community Home, and the hospital's practices are currently in a wage freeze.

Whether raises will come about at the end of this fiscal year, which is June 30, is unknown at this time, Welsh said.

Welsh was particularly appreciative of local delegation members, Rep. Sheryl Briggs, D-Mexico, and Rep. Matt Peterson, D-Rumford.

“They worked hard and did a great job,” Welsh said.

eadams@sunjournal.com

http://www.sunjournal.com/river-valley/story/983955