Tennessee hospital halts admissions as closure looms

Jamestown (Tenn.) Regional Medical Center is no longer admitting patients and is on the verge of closing, according to the Independent Herald.

The 85-bed hospital was reportedly preparing to close May 16, but ultimately remained opened on a day-to-day basis. However, the hospital is still facing challenges and could close "any day now," Jamestown Mayor Lyndon Baines told local TV station WBIR on Tuesday.

Jamestown Regional began diverting ambulances to other hospitals on Tuesday and is no longer admitting new patients, according to the Independent Herald. The hospital reportedly lacks enough supplies to treat patients. 

WBIR reports that the hospital, owned by West Palm Beach, Fla.-based Rennova Health, has struggled to meet payroll and pay vendors. The IRS recently placed a tax lien on the hospital for more than $475,000 in unpaid taxes, but the hospital said it is now up to date on the payments, according to the Independent Herald.

In addition to the financial challenges, the hospital is also out of compliance with Medicare rules. Hospital leaders are working to address the issues to avoid contract termination.  

"CMS and the Tennessee State Survey Agency are working together to ensure the safety of all patients in this facility," CMS said in a statement to the Independent Herald. "We continue to work with the hospital's leadership to address its noncompliance with Medicare Certificate of Participation."

Most hospitals take necessary steps to correct deficiencies prior to termination.

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