Low volume and financial losses led the hospital to consider shutting the pediatric unit down in May. In response to community and provider feedback, the hospital developed a three-phase plan to retain the unit in August.
Moving the pediatric unit, the first phase of the plan, allows this unit and the mother-baby unit to share staff and resources. In addition, the 36-room mother-baby unit gave 10 of its rooms for the pediatric unit, which previously had 15 rooms.
The move cost approximately $145,000, but this hospital expects it will save $600,000 annually, primarily due to savings in staffing, according to the report.
In the next two phases, Salem Hospital will form partnerships with subspecialty providers and use telemedicine through a partnership with Oregon Health & Science University Hospital in Portland. The hospital will also develop a five-year business plan for the continuation of the pediatrics program, according to the report.
More Articles on Hospital Pediatrics:
Salem Hospital in Oregon Creates 3-Phase Plan to Save Pediatrics Program
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