We're all about children!

November 2008 Everyday, we witness the challenges in our economy through all forms of the media. At home, we are experiencing higher prices for just about everything and the ability to obtain loans is getting tougher. When this crisis began, many healthcare officials thought that the economic issues would not affect the healthcare industry. Now, that thought has completely changed. Across the country providers are seeing less elective procedures and admissions are down. Third party payers are reporting that subscribers are dropping their policies because of costs. States are cutting Medicaid programs and reimbursements because of state shortfalls. The MUSC Children's Hospital is experiencing challenges too. We are working hard with the state and other payers to preserve our funding. At this time, we are also looking hard at our costs for staffing and providing supplies. We strive to be as efficient as possible while continuing to provide excellent care. This is something that our organization works on consistently. We staff to AAP guidelines and the staff is used to flexing to meet the acuity and patient volume. We will continue to see challenges with our economy that will affect the way we operate but we are determined to ensure that we keep our patients health in focus and the care at its best. After all, at MUSC Children's Hospital, there is no other way! John Sanders, MHA Administrator MUSC Children's Hospital

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