FAQ

Would it be possible to update the current facility and not build a new hospital?

Yes, but the 3 major problems we are facing are: The change in the way services are delivered, we have moved from an inpatient care model to outpatient care model. Our rapid growth rate in accommodating the care needed in the outpatient setting. The deterioration of the physical plant with an infrastructure that is expensive to repair and retro fit in an old building. To address these 3 issues would cost $10-12 million over the next 3 years. We then would have committed to maintaining a 60 year old building for another 50 years.

Why will the Hospital Medicare reimbursement improve in a new facility?

Under the current Medicare payment system our reimbursement is significantly reduced because the Hospital and Nursing Home are attached. The reimbursement could increase by $300,000 per year if they were NOT attached. By separating them the hospital will NOT have to incur this penalty anymore, which would help ensure the Nursing Home and the HospitalÆs future.

What will happen to the current hospital building?

If there is no identifiable use for it, the building will be removed to enhance the park like setting of the nursing home and supportive living facilities. Removing the building would allow space for additional extensions of our senior care environment consistent with the mission of service to this growing population.

What is the timeline for building a new facility?

The new facility is under construction with a scheduled completion date in early 2009.

Will there be a cafeteria in the new hospital?

Yes. A full serving line and menu will be available along with a vending room. Major meal items will be prepared in the main kitchen at the nursing home and transported to the hospital.

How much is all this going to cost?

Early estimates have the building cost at approximately $12-13 million with the full project at $20 - 22 million.

How will we pay for the new building?

There are three ways we will pay for the building: 1. The $4 million capital campaign 2. Funds will be borrowed and repaid from operations 3. The increase in Medicare reimbursement

Why was the proposed site selected?

The site selected proved to be the best choice of many options the board considered. * It is easily accessible and has superior visibility * It presents opportunities for expansion * It has an opportunity for the use of alternative heating sources.

How will my taxes be affected?

Memorial Hospital does NOT receive any city or county tax support so this will NOT affect taxes.

What will happen to the Nursing Home?

In our society today, we are faced with the ever-growing increase in the senior population and a rising demand for options in senior care and we hope to nurture that demand. Hancock County Nursing Home will be the beneficiary of additional green space and service expansion potential, which does not currently exist.

If we have room to expand the nursing home, what will we add?

The goal is to care for our seniors in the most supportive and least restrictive environment. We want to optimize the number of and different levels of care options on our campus, which could include gardens, cottages, dementia care and more animals like Max. It is not possible to implement all of these elements at one time but each will be explored and executed with care.

How will the capital campaign work?

A steering committee, with countywide representation has been established to assist with informational material and communicating opportunities for giving.

Will the campaign focus mainly on Carthage or be county-wide, and will people from all areas of the county be involved?

This will definitely be a county-wide project, with invitations county-wide for participation. Memorial Hospital serves all of Hancock County as well as communities in surrounding counties. Community leaders from throughout the county will be established to assist with fundraising.

Why whould I contribute to build a new hospital?

Put yourself in the shoes of a bank or bond lender that will be asked to loan us money, or a new doctor that has spent years of his life in school to come here to make a career. Even if the hospital has the money for the down payment, would you lend the money or commit your career to a county that would not commit itself to this project? Local commitment wil help us get a loan and the best doctors available. Our county deserves the best, but we cannot expect the best if we cannot give our best effort. Please do your share. Do not expect someone else to do it for you. Contribute if you can. If you cannot, I ask you to support this effort with enthusiasm. Who knows? This effort now might well save a family member or friend's life in the future.

Will a new hospital survive?

With over 200 jobs and a $7 million plus payroll (that is said to turn over seven times in the county) the county would be devastated if we lose this business. Every single person will feel the financial pinch whether it is direct loss of salary, loss of business, depressed real estate values, or higher real estate taxes to make up the losses.