September Report Shows Continued Operating Loss
McDonough District Hospital's Board of Directors Finance Committee received a positive update Wednesday from the Revenue Cycle Steering Committee Chair, Brittany Doll, who has been recently promoted to vice president of ancillary services & revenue integrity, at its regular monthly meeting. In her report, Doll highlighted meaningful progress in staff engagement, morale and teamwork.
"Employees are demonstrating strong collaboration, enthusiasm and a shared commitment to continuous improvement," she noted.
According to Doll, the committee is reviewing future optimization of the hospital's electronic medical record, with Oracle serving as a key strategic partner in strengthening revenue cycle operations, improving efficiencies and supporting longterm financial performance.
"We're encouraged by the positive momentum and continued progress being made," Doll concluded.
Financial Summary
Director of Fiscal Services Alexis Vonholt reported that while the hospital's September operating performance improved compared to August, the organization remains below its FY27 operating budget. Through September, operating revenue is $1.7 million below budget, while operating expenses are $270,000 favorable, she said. The actual budgeted operating revenue is $61 million compared to the predicted $62.5 million.
"Revenue remains the primary driver of the fiscal year to date operating shortfall," Vonholt explained. "Higher-than-budget revenue deductions continue to reduce net patient revenue."
The net patient revenue is $22.9 million, which is $1.81 million, or 7.3 percent, below budget. Total in-patient days have increased slightly above the budgeted number, as have swing-bed days, emergency room visits, Community Pharmacy prescriptions and MDH Medical Group visits. The dayscash-on hand totals 155 days, which is above the requirement of 95 days.
"Revenue realization remains the leading concern, and the favorable expense performance has not fully offset the shortfall," Vonholt concluded. "We will continue to focus on revenue-cycle improvements and recovery of debt service coverage."
