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POMEROY–A pain management policy has been written by Pomeroy Medical Clinic Medical Director Dr. Andrew, specifically directing the dispensing of opioid medications to clinic patients which was approved effective immediately by the Garfield County Hospital District board (GCHD) at the June 1 meeting. No details were given as to what is included in the new policy.

A proposal by the co-CEOs, Mat Slaybaugh and Jayd Keener, to consider contracting with Lynx Healthcare of Spokane Valley, Wash., for Tele-Health services to handle all opioid prescriptions for pain management patients through the Pomeroy clinic.

Lynx Healthcare operates the Spokane Pain Clinic and specializes in pain management. The Pomeroy Medical Clinic currently sees about 80 patients for pain management, and a contract with Lynx Healthcare would present a substantial change in their care. The GCHD board members asked if the providers would come to the clinic to meet with patients, who would most likely need to be seen every three months, and would require lab work to be done. There was a concern about keeping continuity locally with these patients, and what level of liability the GCHD would have.

Commissioner Jen Dixon stated that patients may be frustrated about being referred to Lynx after having worked with a Pomeroy Clinic provider for a long time, especially those who are stable, non-abusive, and not experiencing any problems. Board Chairman Cindy Wolf asked the co-CEOs to redirect with answers and new information.

Slaybaugh and Keener are also looking into the possibility of participating with the Advancing Integrated Mental Health Solutions (AIMS) program through the University of Washington, partnered with Premera Blue Cross. The goal of the program is to advance research and implement collaborative care to treat common and persistent mental health conditions.

The AIMS program would pay the hospital staff for training, as well as cover travel expenses. The program includes the ability of the GCHD's providers to coordinate with a psychiatrist therapist through telehealth services as a consultant. Slaybaugh stated that the Dayton hospital is doing something similar.

Commissioner Mike Field asked if there would be any opportunity to coordinate the program through Quality Behavioral Health, which manages the Human Services office for Garfield County. Slaybaugh responded he wasn't sure their staff "could handle it," adding they have "a limited number of psychiatrists" and they rely "mostly on social workers and counselors." Wolf called for more information and answers to the board's questions.

Commissioner Steve Cannon said several grants were received in April, including funds from an advance Medicare loan. GCHD received $904,717 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). However, some of that amount may have to be paid back. COVID-19 funding of $3,119,000 was received to offset the negative impact that may have been experienced by the district. But, since no negative impact has been experienced, some may of that amount may have to be paid back. Cannon stated that the funds are not part of the general fund currently, and are just earning interest.

The financial report presented by Cannon included 87 Days Cash on Hand (not including the COVID-19 Medicare Loan) as of the end of May. There was an increase in Swing Bed Days with 702 reported, which exceeded the target of 560. Emergency room visits, at 91, also exceeded the target of 55. Clinic visits were less than hoped for, with 161 visits, but a target of 290. This was determined to be the result of restrictions due to COVID-19. The GCHD net patient revenue, year-to-date, was $2,354,753, total expenses were $2,234,379, for a net income of $120,373.

Cannon continued by describing some impending major expenses for the board to consider, including the repair of roof leaks and power fluctuations causing issues with computers. He expects that some essential components of the computer system may have to be replaced, and anticipates costs of about $14,600. Slaybaugh also reported the x-ray machine needs a new x-ray plate, at a cost of about $20,000, plus $150 shipping. He added that the old plate can be repaired for about $4,000, which has been causing some x-rays to be retaken. Sending the machine out would leave a void in x-ray services, To avoid the deficit, the board approved the purchase of a new one to use at an estimated cost of $24,150, to use while the other machine is repaired.

The GCHD has also received an estimate for $750 to $1,000 to clean up the soil and rock slide from the hillside to the parking lot, with a start date in July. Another estimate from a Lewiston company for $5,155 was also received and included the removal of two trees and some other tree trimming. No other responses to inquiries was received. The board approved accepting bids up to that amount, but also asked Slaybaugh to continue to pursue other bids before proceeding.