West Ascension Parish Hospital plans to invest $350,000 in a rural health clinic expansion and early planning for a future hospital as part of its fiscal year 2027 budget that also anticipates a positive operating result of about $1.15 million.
The budget sets aside $250,000 for planning related to a future hospital and the parish’s long-term health care infrastructure. Another $100,000 would support the build-out and expansion of a rural health clinic, while $125,000 is earmarked for repairs, equipment and operational improvements at the existing hospital.
Altogether, the hospital projects approximately $15.85 million in net operating revenue and plans $475,000 in capital investments.
The Ascension Parish Council approved the operating and capital budgets in a 7-2 vote last week, despite questions about whether the hospital has fully addressed 11 findings in its most recent audit. Council members Joel Robert and Brian Hillensbeck voted against approval.
Hospital CEO Shelton Anthony says eight of the findings originated prior to the current administration. The hospital received the audit deficiencies in April and implemented remedies in May and June, he says.
The hospital board has since adopted a corrective action plan establishing new policies, internal controls and compliance protocols. Those measures include monthly financial reconciliations and revised procurement procedures.
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