Eastern Sierra News
Written by Benett Kessler Tuesday, 30 June 2009 15:29
On Monday, Chief Operations Officer Joe Bottom spoke to a group of 25 Mammoth Hospital employees who work in Bishop. He talked nitty gritty. If workers voluntarily quit, they get no unemployment. Severance pay can be negotiated. Cobra health insurance for terminated workers will cost $830 per month. Severance pay will be taxed.
Bottom said officials tried to handle the situation through attrition, but he said turn-over isn't happening. Bottom said it's necessary to prepare for the future. "This is a tough time," said Bottom. "It's going to be a tough time."
Voluntary termination requires that workers make application. Officials will consider many things, including tenure and performance, when they make the decisions. Bottom said officials will make decisions by July 15th.
Bottom said the economy has impacted income. "We used to depend on revenues growing. The world has changed." Hospital Administrator Gary Boyd made very few comments. He did say Mammoth is a resort community and the hospital can no longer afford to staff to upper levels of tourist population.
New Chief Financial Officer James Hughey said that the hospital is losing $3.3 million a year. "This has been going on for several years," he said. Hughey also said that the late balance due equals $5 million. "We're spending more than we're making," said Hughey. "We're losing more money every week than we're bringing in."
Employees hinted at improper management that has led to staff cuts. One man pointed to a failed and costly computer system, major problems processing bills and claims. Officials admitted that cost over-runs on the hospital building project cost $5 million more than anticipated.
Bookmark
Email this
Hits: 2579
Comments
(38)
Subscribe to this comment's feed
...
written by angelle micheo , July 01, 2009
written by angelle micheo , July 01, 2009
Perhaps if it wasn't so very difficult to deal with incorrect billing procedures and rotten attitudes more local people would use the facility. There are other people in Mono County outside of Mammoth and most of us go elsewhere because of treatment and billing. Think of the revenue that would come in if all of the Mono county residents went to Mammoth Hosp.
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by anonymous , July 02, 2009
written by anonymous , July 02, 2009
Today despite the meeting being held and being told that if we cut 20 positions that there will need to be further cuts, the Orthopedic department alone will need to cut 5 fulltime postions. Senior mangement is not willing to take any pay decreases. We have longtime employees who are single moms and will be losing their jobs. Seniority doesn't count, nothing much counts. We have been sold down the river and who is going to pay for it? You the patients of Mammoth Hospital, Gary Boyd, Joe Bottom and others have volunteered to work in the OR, they don't have a clue. Please support us with your comments not just on the air but in this small community.
Votes: +6
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Concerned Citizen , July 02, 2009
written by Concerned Citizen , July 02, 2009
Of course Gary Boyd is against pay cuts, he and the new CFO didn't accept their positions with in the last year only to turn around and take a cut in pay. They aren't vested in the community, nor do they feel that they owe the staff of Mammoth Hospital anything(some of which have been employed there for over 20 years.) Most of the staff are locals, born and raised in this area, that is what makes this whole situation even more tragic. Mr. Boyd seems to think that Sr. Management foregoing cost of living increases would be meaningful to the rank and file employees. I have a feeling its not. Mr Boyd wants to compare Mammoth with NIH, apples to apples, they are not, NIH has 1 clinic, MH has 12 or so with 2 offsite, NIH only bills for the ER physicians, MH bills for ALL physicians so the volume is quiet different in different areas, where the NIH facility may have a higher daily census, the MH clinics are booked to capacity daily. So maybe Mammoth is over staffed but who approved the hiring of the people, the rank and file or the management?
Votes: +6
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by mono resident , July 03, 2009
written by mono resident , July 03, 2009
angelle has it right. I had the misfortune of spending 5 days in Mammoth Hospital. I was overbilled (my insurance company went after it) and treated so poorly by the MDs that I filed a complaint.
Votes: -3
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Eastern Sierran , July 03, 2009
written by Eastern Sierran , July 03, 2009
Gary Boyd is against across the board pay cuts because they are unfair. Some of those 320 MH employees are highly competent, overworked, and underpaid, whether they are a nurse or a janitor. Those people don't deserve an across the board pay cut. They deserve an administrator who is willing to take the heat and do what is right for the organization -- cut what can be cut.
The professional administrators have decided that MH is overstaffed. Given general economic trends, its hard to say they are wrong. What business in the Eastern Sierra hasn't tried to reduce its number of employees lately? Even some of the government agencies have done so.
Its not fair to point at administrators like Boyd and Bottom and claim they are being unfair because they are only giving up their COLAs, while firing others. Keep in mind that many, if not most, employees will see little or no change in pay. Some of those who will lose jobs deserve to lose their jobs -- they certainly haven't proven themselves indispensable, whereas someone else apparently has. Undoubtedly someone who loses their job will not "deserve" to, but if that's because they are good employee, they will find work elsewhere, because good employees always rise to the top. I've employed well over a hundred people, and the good ones always find their way.
Boyd is not at the heart of the unfairness -- that location is tightly packed with physicians, who continue to make outlandish money. Physicians are the core of the health care system, and the health care system is flat broken. In any other business they would be taking pay cuts, but in the health care system their failure to effectively manage their industry means we all pay more for worse health care, all while their salaries continue to rise.
Votes: -1
The professional administrators have decided that MH is overstaffed. Given general economic trends, its hard to say they are wrong. What business in the Eastern Sierra hasn't tried to reduce its number of employees lately? Even some of the government agencies have done so.
Its not fair to point at administrators like Boyd and Bottom and claim they are being unfair because they are only giving up their COLAs, while firing others. Keep in mind that many, if not most, employees will see little or no change in pay. Some of those who will lose jobs deserve to lose their jobs -- they certainly haven't proven themselves indispensable, whereas someone else apparently has. Undoubtedly someone who loses their job will not "deserve" to, but if that's because they are good employee, they will find work elsewhere, because good employees always rise to the top. I've employed well over a hundred people, and the good ones always find their way.
Boyd is not at the heart of the unfairness -- that location is tightly packed with physicians, who continue to make outlandish money. Physicians are the core of the health care system, and the health care system is flat broken. In any other business they would be taking pay cuts, but in the health care system their failure to effectively manage their industry means we all pay more for worse health care, all while their salaries continue to rise.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Cut the Propaganda , July 03, 2009
written by Cut the Propaganda , July 03, 2009
"They deserve an administrator who is willing to take the heat and do what is right for the organization -- cut what can be cut."
You mean like pay cuts? Like most every single other US corporation has done? You know the CEO's of Starbucks and Continental Airlines cut their pay completely because they had to lay off people? Keep trying with your specious reasoning, board member.
"Its not fair to point at administrators like Boyd and Bottom and claim they are being unfair because they are only giving up their COLAs, while firing others."
Why not? They make the decisions, they make MUCH more than any other non-medically trained professional at the hospital. If anything, Joe Bottom should be forced to retire. That'll save what, 1/5th of the $3.3 million deficit each year? Sounds like a great deal to the public who depend on hospitals to do simple things like, you know, survive.
"In any other business they would be taking pay cuts"
I'd be willing to bet that some doctors have already tried that card. And I'd be willing to bet Joe Bottom's ridiculous salary that Sr. administrators didn't go for the proposition.
Votes: +4
You mean like pay cuts? Like most every single other US corporation has done? You know the CEO's of Starbucks and Continental Airlines cut their pay completely because they had to lay off people? Keep trying with your specious reasoning, board member.
"Its not fair to point at administrators like Boyd and Bottom and claim they are being unfair because they are only giving up their COLAs, while firing others."
Why not? They make the decisions, they make MUCH more than any other non-medically trained professional at the hospital. If anything, Joe Bottom should be forced to retire. That'll save what, 1/5th of the $3.3 million deficit each year? Sounds like a great deal to the public who depend on hospitals to do simple things like, you know, survive.
"In any other business they would be taking pay cuts"
I'd be willing to bet that some doctors have already tried that card. And I'd be willing to bet Joe Bottom's ridiculous salary that Sr. administrators didn't go for the proposition.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by susan wright , July 03, 2009
written by susan wright , July 03, 2009
As a long time resident and RN for mammoth hospital I am very upset to hear some of the comments above, not related to budget or politics, but those pertaining to patient care are negative and hurtful. We try our best to provide people with the best care we can, and often hear from patients how great they were treated. I hope there are more people out there who actually appreciate what we do. If so, don't hesitate to speak up and possibly help us all to not only feel better in a time of crisis but to have the ability to keep doing the best we can even though we might lose our jobs tomorrow!!
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Concerned Citizen , July 06, 2009
written by Concerned Citizen , July 06, 2009
Gary Boyd has only held his position with Mammoth Hospital for about a year now, he unfortunately did inherit a mess and has to be the voice for the board. You do not see one board member standing up to take any heat in all this. Those board members have all been on the board since the beginning of all the troubles with the hospital. Let's not forget the CEO who steps down getting paid $100K to supposedly finish negotiations with contractors on the ER expansion, when in reality it was a way to give the CEO a severance pay without calling it that because under the district by-laws it wasn't allowed. So they went around it. My problem with Gary Boyd's statement about across the board pay cuts, no one has said across the board, they have said administration, Sr Managers, Directors, and Managers. Don't blame the physicians because the board and management have agreed to pay them, they didn't have to approve it, they could have negotiated it better but didn't. So put it out there to the board members, they are in the community, hiding behind the hospital administrator and leaving him to take all the heat when they are the ones people should have problems with.
Votes: +5
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by longtimeMammothresident , July 06, 2009
written by longtimeMammothresident , July 06, 2009
In response to Susan - most people that are pleased with a service stay silent - so you hear from those that had trouble. I've been happy with my service at Mammoth Hospital - you guys always work to get us in & take care of the problem. I had a small billing problem but that's pretty typical of most hospitals - and it was small. When my mom passed away, she was double charged for many items at the large hospital in Pasadena. Medical billing is a pain wherever we go. What's important is the medical care.
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
..., Low-rated comment [Show]
...
written by Eastern Sierran , July 06, 2009
written by Eastern Sierran , July 06, 2009
One further note -- Cut the Propaganda suggests that Joe Bottom's salary is $660,000 per year -- "1/5th of the $3.3 million...." I don't know where this figure came from, and I have trouble believing this. Perhaps KSRW can do some reporting on this purported fact.
Votes: -4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Cut the Propaganda , July 06, 2009
written by Cut the Propaganda , July 06, 2009
Dear Eastern Sierran,
Your upper management defense does not make it hard to discern certain facts about your position and attitude regarding our little community.
Your tirade largely went off-topic only exposed management's ignorance of the true problems facing the hospital. Are you going to cite the Nuremberg Defense next for Boyd and Bottom? You sure are leaning that way by calling them "little goldfish in a huge ocean". I'd liken them more to Great White Sharks in a swimming pool.
So far as your statement about why don't I take a pay cut, at what point did you stop reading the comments on here? The employees are practically begging for a meaningful dialogue with admin that would actually consider such actions. Is it really that hard for management to understand that? Perhaps reading comprehension should be added as a necessary skill to hold an administrative or board position.
Market rate? What direction has the market gone lately? Hence why a 4.1% increase in fees is insane. It's just administration looking to raise fees while scapegoating the doctors as the greedy beneficiaries of the fee increase.
And where has it ever been insinuated that the Hospital doesn't need an administration? If admin is so great and the hospital is run so well from the top down, why so many valid complaints? Why is it the town, who did vote for funds to go to the hospital (to which now you're blaming for the problems as well, nice try at diversion) will have to suffer for admin's horrible decisions? Time for a shake up from the top down, which is again the whole point of this discussion.
As far as doctors go, if those doctor(s) involved want their names out in public for what they've offered it's their decision. You seem to have forgotten a well-known tenet of the Eastern Sierra, Eastern Sierran: EVERYONE talks. And what they're saying has shown admin to be indifferent to those who make admin's salaries possible.
I mean, c'mon, trying to state that Boyd and Bottom are "just like everyone else" while stating in the next sentence that they're being paid "market rate" again makes me cringe at the general thought process regarding the whole situation that you've displayed. Perhaps some time on the hospital front lines would be in order to understand the real issues with the hospital.
And as far as what I'm smoking, I wish I was smoking something really, really good. That way I could perhaps laugh off your comments instead of cringing at the vehement ignorance.
What matters most, what the administrators don't seem to understand, is that quality healthcare is provided to the residents of the Eastern Sierra. It is essential that staff do not fear their management so they can continue providing this level of care with no unnecessary distractions. Priority number one for a non-profit hospital with necessary clinics is NOT preserving the pay of the top guys.
Oh, and seeing as there was the whole "apples to oranges" defense you enacted, here's "apples to apples" courtesy of Cathy Arnst and Business Week. It is entitled " A Business Where The Bosses Took The Pay Cut". Very enlightening. And for extra credit, look at the positive comments that came out. Great PR, and I'm sure good for that hospital's image and bottom line. Not that admin gives one about those factors, apparently.
http://www.businessweek.com/ca..._wher.html
Votes: +6
Your upper management defense does not make it hard to discern certain facts about your position and attitude regarding our little community.
Your tirade largely went off-topic only exposed management's ignorance of the true problems facing the hospital. Are you going to cite the Nuremberg Defense next for Boyd and Bottom? You sure are leaning that way by calling them "little goldfish in a huge ocean". I'd liken them more to Great White Sharks in a swimming pool.
So far as your statement about why don't I take a pay cut, at what point did you stop reading the comments on here? The employees are practically begging for a meaningful dialogue with admin that would actually consider such actions. Is it really that hard for management to understand that? Perhaps reading comprehension should be added as a necessary skill to hold an administrative or board position.
Market rate? What direction has the market gone lately? Hence why a 4.1% increase in fees is insane. It's just administration looking to raise fees while scapegoating the doctors as the greedy beneficiaries of the fee increase.
And where has it ever been insinuated that the Hospital doesn't need an administration? If admin is so great and the hospital is run so well from the top down, why so many valid complaints? Why is it the town, who did vote for funds to go to the hospital (to which now you're blaming for the problems as well, nice try at diversion) will have to suffer for admin's horrible decisions? Time for a shake up from the top down, which is again the whole point of this discussion.
As far as doctors go, if those doctor(s) involved want their names out in public for what they've offered it's their decision. You seem to have forgotten a well-known tenet of the Eastern Sierra, Eastern Sierran: EVERYONE talks. And what they're saying has shown admin to be indifferent to those who make admin's salaries possible.
I mean, c'mon, trying to state that Boyd and Bottom are "just like everyone else" while stating in the next sentence that they're being paid "market rate" again makes me cringe at the general thought process regarding the whole situation that you've displayed. Perhaps some time on the hospital front lines would be in order to understand the real issues with the hospital.
And as far as what I'm smoking, I wish I was smoking something really, really good. That way I could perhaps laugh off your comments instead of cringing at the vehement ignorance.
What matters most, what the administrators don't seem to understand, is that quality healthcare is provided to the residents of the Eastern Sierra. It is essential that staff do not fear their management so they can continue providing this level of care with no unnecessary distractions. Priority number one for a non-profit hospital with necessary clinics is NOT preserving the pay of the top guys.
Oh, and seeing as there was the whole "apples to oranges" defense you enacted, here's "apples to apples" courtesy of Cathy Arnst and Business Week. It is entitled " A Business Where The Bosses Took The Pay Cut". Very enlightening. And for extra credit, look at the positive comments that came out. Great PR, and I'm sure good for that hospital's image and bottom line. Not that admin gives one about those factors, apparently.
http://www.businessweek.com/ca..._wher.html
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Concerned Citizen , July 06, 2009
written by Concerned Citizen , July 06, 2009
Eastern Sierran, two years ago the outcry was to keep a very competent and fair interim administrator, who while there made great steps forward. Had staff support and respect. He was not afraid to say what he thought even if it was contrary to the boards opinion. And what happened to him, they called him on a Saturday and asked him to leave town that they would pay out the remainder of his contract and his services were no longer required. He had nothing to do with the staff uprising, but was blamed for it none the less.
Votes: +7
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by JoAnna , July 06, 2009
written by JoAnna , July 06, 2009
I've been a patient at MH for 20 yrs. 2 children, 1 major surgery, too many office visits in peds to count, several broken bones, mammograms... all competent, caring physicians. I've had very few billing issues and have discovered a gentleman in billing (Bishop) who answers every question with knowledge and willingness to help. MH may not be a slick high-rise, but it is filled with compassionate, kind people. I've never once felt like just a number. Susan... I am grateful and thankful that you do what you do! Please keep up the good & very meaningful work!
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by NoLongerGruntled , July 07, 2009
written by NoLongerGruntled , July 07, 2009
I have to comment on Eastern Sierran's defense of senior management and the Board of Directors at Mammoth Hospital. You made me laugh out loud. Of course senior management and the BOD are responsible for the operations of a company. But beyond that, at MH their difficulties are of their own making.
First we had Gary Myers and his wife, running a private physical therapy business as an adjunct of the hospital; then the BOD tapped Mr. Myers as the CEO, despite him having no relevant experience. The Myers sold their aging business to the hospital and now Gary works for his wife (against hospital policy) in the spanking new PT department. It seems certain people's income from the hospital will always be secure.
As CEO, Mr. Myers let go a qualified, experienced engineer before mismanaging the hospital expansion to the tune of millions in cost overruns. The BOD gave him a $100,000 "consultant's fee" to fix it, in addition to his salary as a physical therapist. As was mentioned above, first they tried to give him the $100K as a severance package, but non-profits aren't legally allowed to do that. Clever thinking on the board's part to reward their guy anyway.
There's a reason Joe Bottom, whose wife has been reporting to him for years in another classic conflict-of-interest, was spontaneously given his own negative category a few years ago in an employee morale survey. Most employees know he gets far too much enjoyment out of pot-stirring, which has the added benefit of keeping the spotlight off him. His habit of wandering around chatting for most of each day is also well known, except apparently to the CEO.
He's been the model of "penny wise, pound foolish" his whole tenure, to a lot people's frustration. For some time he's been angling for a handsome retirement package to augment his years of receiving a high salary, not to mention all the money his nurse practitioner wife makes taking call. (Ask the MDs at the women's clinic how they feel about that, since they are required to back her up, only without the pay part.)
Speaking of, ask any of a number of older women who either no longer work at MH or have been demoted how they feel about the good 'ol boys club he's running with the help of the HR manager. Perhaps a reporter can take a close look at the BOD meeting minutes for the past several years; there are some interesting federal complaints and law suits from female employees they've had to hush up for quite some time now.
Mammoth Hospital enjoys one of the best payer mixes in the industry, meaning, a lot of its patients are well-off and have good insurance. Unlike many hospitals throughout the country, MH gets paid. For many years, the BOD and upper management, as well as the physicians, have been riding a gravy train. So much money was coming in, they didn't have to worry about the mismanagement of the billing and finance departments or the physician's insurance contracts. Were lower level employees also riding the train? Yes - but it starts at the top.
I don't blame the physicians, at least they provide health care. If I got paid a percentage of every procedure I performed, without having to manage a clinic or pay any of the costs, I'd take it, too.
Now a combination of laissez faire mismanagement and a downturn in the economy has left MH in the red. Their solution? First, cuts in the matching funds for retirement accounts (Poor Mr. Bottom...) Then, cuts in health care insurance. Now, no COLAs for anyone this year, including single mothers and families who rely on a paycheck from the hospital, not just the guys getting paid six figure salaries.
Then comes a transparent attempt to get folks to quit, in a rural area of a state with a high unemployment rate, without having to pay unemployment compensation. This includes making them sign a paper saying they will not pursue legal action against the hospital. (Guess they've learned something from their legal troubles, although fixing the problems at the source is not one the lessons.) My advice to hospital employees? Don't take the offer, collect unemployment, don't sign anything, and pursue away. Heaven knows the BOD won't address the issues for you.
Cut the Propaganda is right on the money here: "Priority number one for a non-profit hospital with necessary clinics is NOT preserving the pay of the top guys."
Word.
Votes: +9
First we had Gary Myers and his wife, running a private physical therapy business as an adjunct of the hospital; then the BOD tapped Mr. Myers as the CEO, despite him having no relevant experience. The Myers sold their aging business to the hospital and now Gary works for his wife (against hospital policy) in the spanking new PT department. It seems certain people's income from the hospital will always be secure.
As CEO, Mr. Myers let go a qualified, experienced engineer before mismanaging the hospital expansion to the tune of millions in cost overruns. The BOD gave him a $100,000 "consultant's fee" to fix it, in addition to his salary as a physical therapist. As was mentioned above, first they tried to give him the $100K as a severance package, but non-profits aren't legally allowed to do that. Clever thinking on the board's part to reward their guy anyway.
There's a reason Joe Bottom, whose wife has been reporting to him for years in another classic conflict-of-interest, was spontaneously given his own negative category a few years ago in an employee morale survey. Most employees know he gets far too much enjoyment out of pot-stirring, which has the added benefit of keeping the spotlight off him. His habit of wandering around chatting for most of each day is also well known, except apparently to the CEO.
He's been the model of "penny wise, pound foolish" his whole tenure, to a lot people's frustration. For some time he's been angling for a handsome retirement package to augment his years of receiving a high salary, not to mention all the money his nurse practitioner wife makes taking call. (Ask the MDs at the women's clinic how they feel about that, since they are required to back her up, only without the pay part.)
Speaking of, ask any of a number of older women who either no longer work at MH or have been demoted how they feel about the good 'ol boys club he's running with the help of the HR manager. Perhaps a reporter can take a close look at the BOD meeting minutes for the past several years; there are some interesting federal complaints and law suits from female employees they've had to hush up for quite some time now.
Mammoth Hospital enjoys one of the best payer mixes in the industry, meaning, a lot of its patients are well-off and have good insurance. Unlike many hospitals throughout the country, MH gets paid. For many years, the BOD and upper management, as well as the physicians, have been riding a gravy train. So much money was coming in, they didn't have to worry about the mismanagement of the billing and finance departments or the physician's insurance contracts. Were lower level employees also riding the train? Yes - but it starts at the top.
I don't blame the physicians, at least they provide health care. If I got paid a percentage of every procedure I performed, without having to manage a clinic or pay any of the costs, I'd take it, too.
Now a combination of laissez faire mismanagement and a downturn in the economy has left MH in the red. Their solution? First, cuts in the matching funds for retirement accounts (Poor Mr. Bottom...) Then, cuts in health care insurance. Now, no COLAs for anyone this year, including single mothers and families who rely on a paycheck from the hospital, not just the guys getting paid six figure salaries.
Then comes a transparent attempt to get folks to quit, in a rural area of a state with a high unemployment rate, without having to pay unemployment compensation. This includes making them sign a paper saying they will not pursue legal action against the hospital. (Guess they've learned something from their legal troubles, although fixing the problems at the source is not one the lessons.) My advice to hospital employees? Don't take the offer, collect unemployment, don't sign anything, and pursue away. Heaven knows the BOD won't address the issues for you.
Cut the Propaganda is right on the money here: "Priority number one for a non-profit hospital with necessary clinics is NOT preserving the pay of the top guys."
Word.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by someone , July 07, 2009
written by someone , July 07, 2009
Bishop billing!!
MH is closing your doors and I'm not sure if you've heard yet but I wanted you to know. Prepare to drive up to Mammoth from now on. No more Birch St. no more Short St. Announcement is on the horizon, maybe today or tomorrow?
Votes: -3
MH is closing your doors and I'm not sure if you've heard yet but I wanted you to know. Prepare to drive up to Mammoth from now on. No more Birch St. no more Short St. Announcement is on the horizon, maybe today or tomorrow?
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Another voice , July 07, 2009
written by Another voice , July 07, 2009
When you have a board who picks their own members, spend your hard earned tax dollars and manage your hospital and are not accountable. MMMM who is responsible for the problems, well how about the community holding the hospital board accountable for the problems and mismanagment. Then with real leadership the management and staff can grow and service the Eastern sierras. The board has approved all the changes and allowed the mismanagement for years. I read all the commemnts about Boyd and Bottom well the board has allowed them to get us here! Blame where it is due!
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Announcement , July 07, 2009
written by Announcement , July 07, 2009
Hospital staff has called for an emergency board meeting to be held tomorrow, July 8th, in Conference Rooms A&B at the hospital from 8-9am. If you really want your opinion to count then show up and support the employees. The meeting is open to the public and the press is encouraged to attend.
Votes: +6
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by mtngal , July 07, 2009
written by mtngal , July 07, 2009
MH's billing process is crazy! I, too, have had the good fortune of finding someone, a gentleman in Bishop, who knows what's going on. Why are there two billing systems, multiple statements for the same treatment, and no (seeming) connection between statements. I'm one patient; send me one statement listing every service performed, billed, and paid for. This subject has been brought to "management's" attention many times, to no avail.
As far as clinic and hospital staff, medical and non-medical, I have always found them to be professional, friendly, competent, and helpful. I feel very fortunate to have this excellent health care available here.
Votes: +3
As far as clinic and hospital staff, medical and non-medical, I have always found them to be professional, friendly, competent, and helpful. I feel very fortunate to have this excellent health care available here.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by anonamous , July 08, 2009
written by anonamous , July 08, 2009
One thing that the board can do to help this situation is require all managers & supervisors to clock in & out rather than pay them salary & let them create their own schedules. They also should be required to do patient care so they stay in touch with reality.
Votes: +6
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Living in luxury! , July 08, 2009
written by Living in luxury! , July 08, 2009
I just wanted to say that the comment made by No Longer Disgruntled is right on the money!!! I feel bad for all the people that are stuck in that poor place we like to call Poverty with a view. Who are the administrators and board members fooling. The Bottoms don't even live in Mammoth. They live in big bear and newport beach. they don't care what happens to poor little mammoth and all of it's locals. You really think Bottom and Boyd care what happen to that community? They don't plan to stay there after they're done stuffing their pockets. But let me tell you no money is worth the amount of enemies they are making from the mountains to the sea. Better have a lot of physician friends, boys! Your gonna probably need a lot of prescriptions of ambien to sleep at night. By the way, does anyone know if those guys even ski, hike or camp? I've always wondered that...........
Votes: +6
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by proudofmammoth , July 08, 2009
written by proudofmammoth , July 08, 2009
I've lived in the Eastern Sierra for over 30 years now. My family moved here for the opening of this hospital. I know the majority of the staff at Mammoth Hospital in one way or another and I've seen employees and administrators come and go. There is one thing I know for sure, the employees down on the front lines giving patient care is what makes this hospital run. Nurses, Dr's, EMT's, CNA's in the clinics, clerks, these are the ones who are giving compassionate patient care. It seems to me that if you continue to cut these jobs so you can hire more admin. (ie: a controller) you may just end up with a building full of admin having coffee together.
To the nurses and the front line staffing: keep up the good, hard work you give to your patients. Don't let administration's threats get in way of what you do best. You give exellent patient care and that is what a hospital is all about.
Votes: +5
To the nurses and the front line staffing: keep up the good, hard work you give to your patients. Don't let administration's threats get in way of what you do best. You give exellent patient care and that is what a hospital is all about.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by MHemployee , July 08, 2009
written by MHemployee , July 08, 2009
I attended the special Board of Directors meeting today. It was apparent from the start that they were NOT happy about being forced to speak directly with the employees. The chairman even went so far as to be rude to a few people. He seemed annoyed and agitated. Probably a reaction from his own insecurities, and guilt.
This meeting truly revealed the incompetence and general cluelessness that is characteristic to the board and upper management at the hospital. It was appalling. These people have absolutely no idea how to run a hospital. They don't know what the problems are, and they certainly don't know how to fix them. This reduction in workforce is little more than a distraction. They don't know what to do, but know that they need to do SOMETHING. ANYTHING! So this is the band-aid. It will buy them a few months or even years before they have to face the problems again.
In the meantime, they are ruining the lives of many honest, hard working people simply because they don't have the courage to step down from their positions. And they are aware of this. They are aware that their incompetence is now bringing hardship upon the citizens of our small community. And it was obvious that their annoyance and disdain this morning were caused by their own guilt. They aren't bad people. They are just scared. And their cowardice is hurting others. If they had any decency, they would resign from their positions. But the fear of losing a job is a powerful force these days.
The new CFO spoke, though I doubt anyone listened. He's been here just a few months, and already people have nothing but bad things to say about him. He spoke of the economy, and of slower business. But it didn't take long to point out that numbers are actually UP, and business is strong in Mammoth. Looking at the actual numbers would have required some work, so I imagine he just tuned into the national news and assumed that it applied to Mammoth as well.
He revealed that, despite the need to reduce staff, they have created another high-paying position that they are looking to fill in the near future. The questions about Mammoth Hospital being too “top-heavy” went unanswered, along with many other questions.
They DID answer questions about unemployment. Seems that we were initially misled, with a carefully-worded email. But the truth came out today that the voluntary separations would have to commit fraud in order to collect unemployment. Now they certainly didn't advise us to do that, but at least they were honest. This information came from the lawyer who wouldn't look anyone in the eye, and the HR manager who spoke to his feet instead of the employees.
A few employees spoke up. Some cried and choked on their words. Most of us remained silent, not out of fear, but out of hopelessness. Speaking our minds would be a waste of time. As long as those people are in charge of our organization, things are only going to get worse.
Votes: +1
This meeting truly revealed the incompetence and general cluelessness that is characteristic to the board and upper management at the hospital. It was appalling. These people have absolutely no idea how to run a hospital. They don't know what the problems are, and they certainly don't know how to fix them. This reduction in workforce is little more than a distraction. They don't know what to do, but know that they need to do SOMETHING. ANYTHING! So this is the band-aid. It will buy them a few months or even years before they have to face the problems again.
In the meantime, they are ruining the lives of many honest, hard working people simply because they don't have the courage to step down from their positions. And they are aware of this. They are aware that their incompetence is now bringing hardship upon the citizens of our small community. And it was obvious that their annoyance and disdain this morning were caused by their own guilt. They aren't bad people. They are just scared. And their cowardice is hurting others. If they had any decency, they would resign from their positions. But the fear of losing a job is a powerful force these days.
The new CFO spoke, though I doubt anyone listened. He's been here just a few months, and already people have nothing but bad things to say about him. He spoke of the economy, and of slower business. But it didn't take long to point out that numbers are actually UP, and business is strong in Mammoth. Looking at the actual numbers would have required some work, so I imagine he just tuned into the national news and assumed that it applied to Mammoth as well.
He revealed that, despite the need to reduce staff, they have created another high-paying position that they are looking to fill in the near future. The questions about Mammoth Hospital being too “top-heavy” went unanswered, along with many other questions.
They DID answer questions about unemployment. Seems that we were initially misled, with a carefully-worded email. But the truth came out today that the voluntary separations would have to commit fraud in order to collect unemployment. Now they certainly didn't advise us to do that, but at least they were honest. This information came from the lawyer who wouldn't look anyone in the eye, and the HR manager who spoke to his feet instead of the employees.
A few employees spoke up. Some cried and choked on their words. Most of us remained silent, not out of fear, but out of hopelessness. Speaking our minds would be a waste of time. As long as those people are in charge of our organization, things are only going to get worse.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by hahaha , July 08, 2009
written by hahaha , July 08, 2009
Isnt it funny how Joe Bottom had absolutely nothing to say during the emergency board meeting today? I guess if you have nothing productive to say, dont say anything at all. Regardless, this goes to prove how involved he is in hospital affairs.
Votes: +3
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Concerned Citizen , July 09, 2009
written by Concerned Citizen , July 09, 2009
Did anything beneficial come from the emergency board meeting or was it just for show, like the board really cares about the staff but are still not going to change anything. That is historically how the board has handled things.
Votes: +4
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by A Patient, A Customer , July 09, 2009
written by A Patient, A Customer , July 09, 2009
I'd like to give a shout out to the professionals that make Mammoth Hospital a respectable care facility. In the past two years I've given birth, had two surgeries, a couple colds, my regular female check-ups and I've taken my daughter for all pediatric care needs to the Mammoth Hospital clinics. In that time I've been happy to see whatever doctor was available. With only one exception, I felt they were professional, knowledgeable, courteous, easy to talk to and caring. During each of my surgeries I felt like I was within a fine-tuned machine. In every instance I was pleased with the nurses and their care as well, especially in labor and delivery! So here's one small thank you to all of you that kept me healthy, comfortable and aware of my surroundings.
As for the surroundings, the facility is clean (except the high rafters above the waiting room outside of the Women's Clinic - cobwebs galore, but obviously did not affect my care) and seems up-to-date. However when I stayed 4 nights in the new Labor and Delivery facility, the shower that drained toward the toilet, the jetted tub that did not have functioning jets and the faulty toilet (I had to walk across the hall to use the bathroom the day after I delivered) made me wonder who hired the "contractor" in charge of that mess. Luckily I had extremely helpful nurses to help me around those obstacles.
Then there's the billing. I'd estimate at least 90% of my bills, claims to insurances and notices ("THIS IS NOT A BILL") have been incorrect. This has resulted in me having to educate myself in the billing and insurance language in order to protect myself from double billing, overpayment, incorrectly coded insurance claims, etc. I had my daughter almost a year and a half ago and am still working to correct claims that were miscoded and/or sent to the wrong insurance entirely for that particular date of service (but MANY others as well). If it weren't for the quality of care I received I would definitely look for a different source of care elsewhere based on the adventures in billing hassles alone.
Another sore spot is the reception/admitting at most of the clinics. The patient information forms are often in error (even when I've corrected and initialed the errors at previous visits so that they would be fixed by my next visit...in theory). For example, at my most recent surgery I was told that I had a $1000 deductible and a $500 facility fee. I explained to the receptionist that I had double coverage and they then looked at the form in their other hand to confirm this. I think they make so many mistakes because of continual turnover. I suspect the hospital does not sufficiently pay these positions in order to sustain knowledgeable staff. This is the patient/customer's first impression of the Hospital and when it's always someone new and they're constantly making mistakes it gets old quick. Why not let the big wigs wear these shoes for some time to get acquainted with the real needs of those that drive the hospital, the patients, their customers?
Thanks again to the caregivers at Mammoth Hospital for a job well done! Good luck obtaining the respect, compensation and justice you all deserve.
Votes: +3
As for the surroundings, the facility is clean (except the high rafters above the waiting room outside of the Women's Clinic - cobwebs galore, but obviously did not affect my care) and seems up-to-date. However when I stayed 4 nights in the new Labor and Delivery facility, the shower that drained toward the toilet, the jetted tub that did not have functioning jets and the faulty toilet (I had to walk across the hall to use the bathroom the day after I delivered) made me wonder who hired the "contractor" in charge of that mess. Luckily I had extremely helpful nurses to help me around those obstacles.
Then there's the billing. I'd estimate at least 90% of my bills, claims to insurances and notices ("THIS IS NOT A BILL") have been incorrect. This has resulted in me having to educate myself in the billing and insurance language in order to protect myself from double billing, overpayment, incorrectly coded insurance claims, etc. I had my daughter almost a year and a half ago and am still working to correct claims that were miscoded and/or sent to the wrong insurance entirely for that particular date of service (but MANY others as well). If it weren't for the quality of care I received I would definitely look for a different source of care elsewhere based on the adventures in billing hassles alone.
Another sore spot is the reception/admitting at most of the clinics. The patient information forms are often in error (even when I've corrected and initialed the errors at previous visits so that they would be fixed by my next visit...in theory). For example, at my most recent surgery I was told that I had a $1000 deductible and a $500 facility fee. I explained to the receptionist that I had double coverage and they then looked at the form in their other hand to confirm this. I think they make so many mistakes because of continual turnover. I suspect the hospital does not sufficiently pay these positions in order to sustain knowledgeable staff. This is the patient/customer's first impression of the Hospital and when it's always someone new and they're constantly making mistakes it gets old quick. Why not let the big wigs wear these shoes for some time to get acquainted with the real needs of those that drive the hospital, the patients, their customers?
Thanks again to the caregivers at Mammoth Hospital for a job well done! Good luck obtaining the respect, compensation and justice you all deserve.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Rob Valentine , July 11, 2009
written by Rob Valentine , July 11, 2009
Thank you for the nice comments about service - there are a lot of great people at MH providing services.
The CFO has said several times that he has "never seen" anything like the problems at MH.
Welcome to the club. We know this.
Please see my posting on the Sheet blog at: http://mammothsheet.blogspot.c...orial.html
It is under Letters down to the right.
Comments? I certainly don't expect some of the folks above to go public; for, you could be terminated like I was after sending out an internal email. I will fight this; it is unjust. They cut our insurance right away.
Please keep up the movement for a better MH. If all of the remaining 325 employees (soon to be 305?) and decreasing went public, we stand a great chance of finally putting together a sound management and BOD.
Thank you all for the quality comments, except the one who is in support of the current management and BOD. Do your work with the medical staff or the coffee, ice cream and cake staff?
Regards,
Rob Valentine
Votes: +4
The CFO has said several times that he has "never seen" anything like the problems at MH.
Welcome to the club. We know this.
Please see my posting on the Sheet blog at: http://mammothsheet.blogspot.c...orial.html
It is under Letters down to the right.
Comments? I certainly don't expect some of the folks above to go public; for, you could be terminated like I was after sending out an internal email. I will fight this; it is unjust. They cut our insurance right away.
Please keep up the movement for a better MH. If all of the remaining 325 employees (soon to be 305?) and decreasing went public, we stand a great chance of finally putting together a sound management and BOD.
Thank you all for the quality comments, except the one who is in support of the current management and BOD. Do your work with the medical staff or the coffee, ice cream and cake staff?
Regards,
Rob Valentine
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Stand Up @ Fight , July 11, 2009
written by Stand Up @ Fight , July 11, 2009
I'm sure Gloria Allred would love to take your case. Like taking candy from a baby! Check out her web site. I say good luck but you don't need it, slam dunk here in Mammoth Berry R.F.D..
Votes: +1
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Rob Valentine , July 12, 2009
written by Rob Valentine , July 12, 2009
my email is
\n This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
'>
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
for those that wish to email me separately
i know it is hopeless if only one guy goes public (outside of BOD meetings even); if we all stand together, we will accomplish most of our goals...and keep our jobs.
Joe Bottom is easy pickins for a State Auditor and the terrible performance of Gary Boyd the past 12 months; it is very difficult to get the States attention with just one voice that isn't anonymous.
I have emailed Gloria Allred, per the previous comment. I will make phone calls Monday.
Anyone that knows a lawyer interested, please let me know. No one locally will touch this with a 100 foot pole.
Keep it up! Go exercise and meditate if nervous breakdown seems inevitable, like with my wife and I.
thanks,
rob valentine
Votes: +3
i know it is hopeless if only one guy goes public (outside of BOD meetings even); if we all stand together, we will accomplish most of our goals...and keep our jobs.
Joe Bottom is easy pickins for a State Auditor and the terrible performance of Gary Boyd the past 12 months; it is very difficult to get the States attention with just one voice that isn't anonymous.
I have emailed Gloria Allred, per the previous comment. I will make phone calls Monday.
Anyone that knows a lawyer interested, please let me know. No one locally will touch this with a 100 foot pole.
Keep it up! Go exercise and meditate if nervous breakdown seems inevitable, like with my wife and I.
thanks,
rob valentine
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by live2ski , July 13, 2009
written by live2ski , July 13, 2009
I find it mind boggling that the one Senior Manager that was involved in this whole debacle from start to finish has managed to keep his job. But that aside, both layoffs, upper management pay cuts and a revised physician reimbursement plan is needed to get the Hospital out of the red. An independent consultant should look at the size of every department, compare it to other hospitals that service communities of comparable populations and make recommendations for layoffs. For example, why does MH have an IT Department of 12 employees, when NIU which has a larger daily patient census have an IT Department of 6?
I do not question the ability of the MH doctors to provide quality care. Physicians are paid a percentage of billed charges. This is not a common method of reimbursement. Physicians usually get a % of reimbursement. If the hospital can't collect, the physician still gets paid. The hospital takes all the risk. The physicians don't even pay for overhead. This plan was put in place for recruitment measures but it is antiquated. I would have to believe that enough people (including doctors) would be willing to move to the beautiful Eastern Sierra for the lifestyle. Either way health care reform is going to happen; the new CEO should recognize this and show some vision. Layoffs alone are not the answer!
Votes: +0
I do not question the ability of the MH doctors to provide quality care. Physicians are paid a percentage of billed charges. This is not a common method of reimbursement. Physicians usually get a % of reimbursement. If the hospital can't collect, the physician still gets paid. The hospital takes all the risk. The physicians don't even pay for overhead. This plan was put in place for recruitment measures but it is antiquated. I would have to believe that enough people (including doctors) would be willing to move to the beautiful Eastern Sierra for the lifestyle. Either way health care reform is going to happen; the new CEO should recognize this and show some vision. Layoffs alone are not the answer!
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Eastern Sierran , July 13, 2009
written by Eastern Sierran , July 13, 2009
live2ski gets it.
Cuts, where necessary, should happen to overstaffed positions, whether it is management or staff.
Billing needs to be corrected -- everyone who has ever used MH has had a billing issue. I once saw a bill where standard aspirins were charged at $8 a piece. This type of silliness leads to a completely non-functional system.
Finally, it's not just that MH physicians get a
g;e of billed fees as opposed to collected fees.
Many MH physicians also get a guaranteed base salary amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
MH is a public entity. Mammoth citizens should know the average compensation of physicians (is it a half million, a million, or two million? -- does anyone know), and minimum base salaries should be phased out when the physicians revenue sharing reaches a certain point, such as $300 or $400K per year.
A public entity should not be subsidizing someone's salary when they are receiving compensation in an amount 10, 20, 30 and more, times greater than the area median income.
As for many of the other comments, it appears there is serious dissatisfaction with upper management. This is belied by the attendance at Board meetings, where there are typically NO members of the community other than employees. If the community is dissatisfied with the Board, the community should recall the Board and propose a new slate of candidates. Otherwise, the complaints are idle.
As for the "whistleblower" lawsuit and other things of a similar vein, I leave that to all of you armchair lawyers. Best of luck with the legal system -- it's as screwed up and corrupt as the medical.
Votes: -2
Cuts, where necessary, should happen to overstaffed positions, whether it is management or staff.
Billing needs to be corrected -- everyone who has ever used MH has had a billing issue. I once saw a bill where standard aspirins were charged at $8 a piece. This type of silliness leads to a completely non-functional system.
Finally, it's not just that MH physicians get a
g;e of billed fees as opposed to collected fees.
Many MH physicians also get a guaranteed base salary amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
MH is a public entity. Mammoth citizens should know the average compensation of physicians (is it a half million, a million, or two million? -- does anyone know), and minimum base salaries should be phased out when the physicians revenue sharing reaches a certain point, such as $300 or $400K per year.
A public entity should not be subsidizing someone's salary when they are receiving compensation in an amount 10, 20, 30 and more, times greater than the area median income.
As for many of the other comments, it appears there is serious dissatisfaction with upper management. This is belied by the attendance at Board meetings, where there are typically NO members of the community other than employees. If the community is dissatisfied with the Board, the community should recall the Board and propose a new slate of candidates. Otherwise, the complaints are idle.
As for the "whistleblower" lawsuit and other things of a similar vein, I leave that to all of you armchair lawyers. Best of luck with the legal system -- it's as screwed up and corrupt as the medical.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by MHemployee , July 21, 2009
written by MHemployee , July 21, 2009
Mammoth Hospital did something noble and respectable today. They got rid of the CFO, who was the driving force behind this latest round of mistakes. While it's a little too late, this is probably the closest thing we'll get to an apology.
Votes: -2
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Concerned Citizen , July 21, 2009
written by Concerned Citizen , July 21, 2009
If it was really supposed to be an apology they would have fired the COO who actually does nothing for the facility.
Votes: +3
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Rob Valentine , August 04, 2009
written by Rob Valentine , August 04, 2009
Anyone else?
This is how incompetence and corruption continues - a fall guy goes public and no one else does so.
Where did you all get the "illegal" information?
The one comment above essentially about no hope is correct - if no one even tries to contact the Governor / politicians / federal agencies, then it's hopeless. Anyone?
- Rob Valentine
Votes: -1
This is how incompetence and corruption continues - a fall guy goes public and no one else does so.
Where did you all get the "illegal" information?
The one comment above essentially about no hope is correct - if no one even tries to contact the Governor / politicians / federal agencies, then it's hopeless. Anyone?
- Rob Valentine
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Advise , August 04, 2009
written by Advise , August 04, 2009
Rob;
It's an empty feeling when you look around for support and everyone does the turtle. Been there , done that if you're looking for support look in the mirror.
The fight or flight response is wired differently in our species and most will not risk until its to late. The holocaust being just one example- people actually helping load the ovens to preserve themselves. Its hard wired and if you never faced the situation you really don't know what your response would be.
Having been in like shoes at one time, my advice is to get an attorney that will take the case without a retainer and let them fight the fight. You need to get back to making a living and need to put all your energy in that direction and in a few years you'll look back at this as a godsend. This could be an opportunity or a life sentence, it's really your choice.
Votes: +2
It's an empty feeling when you look around for support and everyone does the turtle. Been there , done that if you're looking for support look in the mirror.
The fight or flight response is wired differently in our species and most will not risk until its to late. The holocaust being just one example- people actually helping load the ovens to preserve themselves. Its hard wired and if you never faced the situation you really don't know what your response would be.
Having been in like shoes at one time, my advice is to get an attorney that will take the case without a retainer and let them fight the fight. You need to get back to making a living and need to put all your energy in that direction and in a few years you'll look back at this as a godsend. This could be an opportunity or a life sentence, it's really your choice.
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by nsds , August 04, 2009
written by nsds , August 04, 2009
Whistleblower laws protect those who blow the whistle on crimes. Was Valentine's email about crime? Or more of a rant (or manifesto) alleging incompetence?
Votes: +1
report abuse
vote down
vote up
...
written by Jaoquin Almuerzo , August 04, 2009
written by Jaoquin Almuerzo , August 04, 2009
It's illegal to fire an employee who reports a significant misstatement of financial statements. I don't believe Rob was reporting that kind of thing. The latest chief financial officer alleged that Mammoth Hospital was losing money at the rate of $3.3 million a year for several years. That wasn't the case, of course, or they would have run out of cash a long time ago. The guy was just trying to make people look bad so he could look good. That's a tactic people who lack ability use to make themselves look better than they really are. He's gone now. That's a good thing.
Votes: -2
report abuse
vote down
vote up
Regarding comments on this web site
- Comments are moderated, and will not appear until they've been approved.
- Comments on this site do not in any way reflect the views or opinions of the Sierra Wave.
- Please fill in the name field with your real name or initials. We have found that people who use their names carry on more engaging, respectful conversations.
