From January through June, Cleveland-based MetroHealth System reportedly paid a consultant $240,000 to perform the duties of the former hospital controller, who was paid $105,000 annually, according to a Plain Dealer report.
The news report says MetroHealth pays Stephany Neel, who works for Kohler Healthcare Consulting, $275 an hour along with out-of-pocket expenses, which have totaled more than $29,000 in the past six months. The development coincides with state officials’ expressed concern over MetroHealth executives’ salaries and bonuses.
A hospital spokesperson said MetroHealth has been looking for a controller but has been unable to find one. The spokesperson also said Ms. Neel brings a “fresh perspective” to MetroHealth, along with new practices and benchmarking methods, according to the report.
The system has offered full-time employment to Ms. Neel, but she declined, according to the report. At MetroHealth’s last monthly meeting, board members approved a resolution to re-hire Ms. Neel for a fourth time. That contract runs up to January 31, 2012, and is for “fees not to exceed $465,000 plus reasonable out of pocket expenses,” according to the report.
In total, MetroHealth has approved a total of $990,000 in contracts for Ms. Neel since July 2010, according to the report.
Read the Plain Dealer report on MetroHealth System’s consultant.
Related Articles on MetroHealth:
Ohio’s MetroHealth Pays Former CFO Salary Despite June Resignation
Ohio’s MetroHealth System to Begin $26M Capital Improvement Project
Cleveland Clinic, MetroHealth Partner to Create Regional Trauma Network
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
