Franklin Regional Could Lose Medicaid Coverage

Louisburg, N.C. — Franklin County's only hospital could lose its ability to bill Medicare and Medicaid for caring for elderly and poor patients if its doesn't fix problems by March 30.

The state Department of Health and Human Services, which operates Medicare and Medicaid in North Carolina, notified Franklin Regional Medical Center by mail Thursday that it must fix problems with its governance, medical staff, nursing services and laboratory services to remain eligible to participate in the two government insurance programs.

Hospital spokeswoman Bonnie Little wouldn't specify the problems that need to be addressed, but she said the hospital is “looking forward to opportunities for improvement.”

If the deadline isn't met, anyone admitted to Franklin Regional on or after March 30 will not be eligible for Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement. Payment will continue through the end of April for those admitted before the deadline, officials said.

Franklin Regional has proposed building a new hospital in Youngsville to serve the growing population in southern Franklin County. The state hasn't yet approved the plan – county officials oppose the idea – but Little said the Medicare/Medicaid issue shouldn't have any effect on its application.

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after working there myself, i would never work for HMA again. too much 'corporate' junk going on. they are understaffed and underpaid. you can't get overtime..if you do, you have to leave early to take it off. there's so much more than this though. ultimately, the patient is the one who suffers (not literally).

beachluvr
March 21, 2008 9:59 p.m.

Joint commission and other gov't regulatory bodies are a joke. They come up with ridiculous recommendations that hamper not improve patient care. Surveys are conducted by washed up MD's and others that haven't been to the bedside in years, not true in all cases but in many.

Evil one
March 21, 2008 9:01 p.m.

I know of a hospital or two that needs to be shut down. They are on the verge of being vetinary hospitals

Redneck_Bob
March 21, 2008 8:35 p.m.

I have been admitted to FRMC on several occasions. The care was top notch. The staff were very kind and professional. I will agree that this latest issue most likely has something to do with "The Good Ol'Boys" pushing their agenda to halt the hospital's move to Youngsville. If the move is denied, I trust that we will all suffer in the long run. As well we should. Move the facility to Youngsville.