County Council Expedites Emergency Hospital Funding

The Prince George’s County Council today considered two emergency measures addressing the ongoing financial crisis facing the County’s hospital system.  CB-2-2007, emergency legislation recommending a $5 million conditional supplementary appropriation to the system was formally introduced as amended by the Council.

Conditions for the funding call for complete access to all records and facilities of Dimensions Healthcare Management so that an analysis of hospital operations and finances can be performed; the Dimensions Board of Directors’ agreement to a reorganization and creation of a long-term strategy to cut costs without sacrificing quality patient care; and a reconstitution of the Dimensions Board of Directors before any subsequent County appropriation requests are approved.  The Council deleted a requirement that the reconstitution result in a majority of new board members being appointed by the county.

Council Chair Camille A. Exum (D) – District 7 explains the change.  “This amendment allows room for future deliberations regarding the best structure for reconstitution of the Dimensions Board of Directors, and facilitates further and timely deliberations with the State.”

The County Council gave unanimous approval to a second emergency measure, CR-5-2007, which provides an immediate appropriation of $5 million to Dimensions.  Under the County Charter, with the transmittal of CB-2-2007 and the recommendation of the County Executive, the Council can adopt a resolution for emergency funding and immediately release the $5 million supplementary appropriation, while CB-2-2007 is being set for hearing.  Council adoption of CR-5-2007 provides for the most expeditious delivery of the hospital funding.  The funding conditions, reflected in both measures, have been accepted by the Dimensions Board of Directors. 

The Council also requested that “the State allocate sufficient funding to the healthcare system to offset indigent care costs, and for the State to alter the reimbursement formula for the HSCRC (Health Services Cost Review Commission) to address inequities in the State healthcare system.”

Chair Exum says the State’s contribution has been lacking.  “Prince George’s County has demonstrated our commitment to the provision of quality healthcare and a viable healthcare delivery system with the approval of resources to support the hospital.  The State should accept its responsibility for providing healthcare.” 

CR-5-2007, which must be signed by the County Executive, provides for expedited delivery of the $5 million dollar emergency appropriation to the hospital system.