Summarized below are key initiatives/plans occurring during the week of July 25 regarding progress at Hutcheson Medical Center in Fort Oglethorpe under the management agreement with Erlanger Health System, which became effective on May 26.

Hutcheson’s monthly board meetings of the Hospital Authority, Hutcheson Medical Center (HMC) and Hutcheson Health Enterprises were held on July 27. Contract approvals were made for Hutcheson emergency room call coverage and impatient consultation services. Appointments were granted for Evan Stone, Dade County representative on the HMC Board, to become a member of the Hospital Authority and Larry Moore, former Dade County commissioner, to assume Stone’s position on the HMC Board.

Also at Hutcheson’s July 27 board meeting, Gregg Gentry, Erlanger senior vice president of human resources who serves as Erlanger’s point person for the Hutcheson management agreement, announced that Hutcheson will borrow cash on its $20 million line of credit with Erlanger. Mr. Gentry explained that the first-time cash loan, of $700,000 (which carries a minimum interest rate of five per cent), was because of three Hutcheson payrolls during the month of July, instead of two — an anomaly occurring only twice a year. He said he applauded the leadership and employees of Hutcheson for the hard work they’ve done to prevent having to access the line of credit until this point, noting that “when we were in the midst of our due diligence late last year it was estimated that Hutcheson would need a cash infusion as early as January or February of 2011.” Hutcheson Board Chairman Corky Jewell seconded Mr. Gentry’s remarks, telling board members “we anticipated that at some time we would have to get it, but I am very pleasantly surprised we have gone this long.” Mr. Jewell added. “I’m even happier that the amount required is as small as it is, and just for unusual circumstances based on the calendar.”

Three Erlanger representatives, including Dr. Cy Huffman, Chief Medical Officer at Erlanger, participated in the second of six physician forums at the Hutcheson Women’s Center on July 26. These ongoing meetings with North Georgia physicians are part of Erlanger’s commitment to review and rebuild the physician base at Hutcheson, and to seek input from the medical community.

The recent purchase of an 800-band base radio by Hutcheson is the next step to advancing the new effort in emergency services with help from Erlanger. The acquisition of this base radio will enhance communication and coordination between the hospital and other local facilities, as well bolster emergency services and disaster response.

The Joint Commission, accrediting and certifying agency, represents a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organizations commitment to meeting performance standards across the U.S. The agency made its tri-annual visit to Hutcheson on July 26-29. Debbie Reeves, Erlanger administrator, says, “Management is optimistic that Hutcheson will receive a good final report from The Joint Commission and looks forward to providing updates in future Progress Reports."

Representatives from the Erlanger and Hutcheson rehabilitation departments demonstrated appropriate stretching techniques to participants in the Cannonball Charge Triathlon in Fort Oglethorpe, held on July 31. The event, sponsored by Erlanger and Hutcheson, promoted fitness and healthy lifestyles for the community.

Article submitted by Hutcheson Medical Center.