Jackson Hospital workers awaiting details of deal to allow it to remain open
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WAKA) – Jackson Hospital workers are still awaiting details on the agreement that will allow their bankrupt facility to stay open, but they are relieved that the hospital has a future.
The hospital had been on the brink of closing this month unless it could bring in more money. Friday, July 3, the hospital announced that it had reached a deal with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. The hospital had been wanting Blue Cross to raise its insurance reimbursement rates.
One Jackson Hospital leader says that some of its 1,800 workers had already made plans to leave, but are now thrilled to be staying.
“Oh it was wonderful,” Brandi Reedy, the director of the hospital’s cardiovascular services told Action 8 News. “It was, you know, that long-awaited release that we were finally getting some clarity on the future of the hospital. There were resignations that were rescinded for staffers that were leaving that really wanted to be here — didn’t want to leave, but with the uncertainty of the hospital were choosing to leave, so that was just amazing to know that that we had the support to stay here.”
We don’t yet know if this agreement will put Jackson Hospital’s financial struggles completely in the past.
The hospital had said it needed $293 million to fully recover, but before the agreement, only had $61 million in commitments.
When we get details of the deal, we will bring them to you on Action 8 News.
