Community members in Buncombe County, N.C., have a chance to voice their thoughts about HCA Mission Health at two upcoming meetings. These gatherings are crucial as Mission Hospital faces challenges after being labeled in “immediate jeopardy” by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the third time in two years.
Scheduled for March 9 and March 10, these meetings will allow locals to discuss their experiences at Mission Health facilities. Rachel Ryan, general counsel for Dogwood Health Trust, emphasized that it’s an opportunity for the Independent Monitor, alongside HCA and state officials, to connect directly with residents.
Being in immediate jeopardy means that patient safety is at risk, which could endanger the hospital’s participation in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Dogwood Health Trust is responsible for ensuring HCA complies with the Asset Purchase Agreement, which governs its acquisition of the Mission Health System.
Ryan noted that previous occurrences of immediate jeopardy in 2023 and 2024 raised red flags about potential noncompliance with the agreement. This is a serious matter that Dogwood and the Independent Monitor are closely watching.
Mission Hospital assured the public that it is taking steps to address these issues. The hospital plans to hire an independent consultant to improve safety protocols, reflecting its commitment to patient care. According to a recent statement from CEO Greg Lowe, they want to strengthen their processes with the support of expert guidance.
The community meetings will feature updates on the Independent Monitor’s activities and their upcoming reporting for 2025. Representatives from Dogwood Health Trust, HCA Healthcare, and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will be present.
If you’re interested in attending, here are the details:
- March 9: Transylvania County Library in Brevard, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
- March 10: Western Carolina University at Biltmore Park, 5:30 to 7 p.m. (This will also be livestreamed.)
Community engagement like this is vital. It allows residents to share their insights and hold health institutions accountable. It underscores a growing trend of transparency in healthcare, where patient voices play a key role in shaping care quality.
For more information, check out the CMS guidelines on immediate jeopardy status here.
