Gov. John Bel Edwards, D-La., has sent "notice of breach" letters to Shreveport, La.-based BRF for allegedly mismanaging state-owned hospitals in Monroe and Shreveport, according to the Miami Herald.
The governor's administration and Louisiana State University, which previously managed the hospitals, alleges that BRF's hospital manager does not work with LSU to maintain a high-quality medical education, doesn't keep up with bill payments and doesn't meet patient care or safety standards. BRF began operating the hospital in 2013 after securing a no-bid contract with former Gov. Bobby Jindal.
BRF has 45 days to amend the problems. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne said the state is in talks with other providers who may be able to step in if necessary.
"We are proceeding in good faith to see if the deficiencies can be cured and to see if another partner can be brought in," Mr. Dardenne said.
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