Sullivan County Hospital Expands Services, Moves Forward With New Facility Plans

MILAN, Mo. — Sullivan County Memorial Hospital made significant strides this spring, focusing on expanding services, recruiting providers, and moving forward with plans for a new hospital facility following the successful passage of a countywide tax measure.

On April 8, county voters approved a half-cent sales tax for economic development, passing with 558 votes in favor and 373 against — a 60% margin. Hospital officials reported that 10 letters of support were submitted by local organizations and businesses to bolster the funding request. Planning is now underway, with a strategy meeting held April 17 between hospital leaders and HFG Architecture representative TJ Siemons to begin next steps for the new facility.

Efforts to improve access to care were also at the forefront. Starting in June, the Physicians’ Clinic at the hospital will extend its hours to 7 p.m. on weekdays and add Saturday morning availability. The change is aimed at better serving working residents and offering a local alternative to emergency room visits or out-of-town travel.

SCMH is also expanding specialty services. Urologist Dr. Aberger held his first clinic on April 11, treating 13 patients. He plans to add services such as testosterone replacement therapy, vasectomies, and biopsies — all of which can be provided in the clinic setting.

Following the decision to terminate its pain management contract with Premier Specialty Network, the hospital has moved quickly to find a replacement provider. Recruitment efforts included a successful interview with CRNA Joshua DeLozier, a certified specialist in pain management, who is expected to begin offering services as soon as credentialing is finalized.

A full-time pharmacist was hired for the retail pharmacy and began orientation on April 28. The pharmacy’s new drive-thru window became operational earlier in the spring, and insurance agreements with Aetna and Silver Scripts were activated in April, improving access and affordability for patients.

The hospital recognized its staff’s contributions throughout the season. In March, LPN Alice Hill was named Employee of the Month in honor of her 20 years of service in multiple departments, including long-term care and the medical-surgical floor. In April, the award went to IT technician Jacob Tabbert, praised for his responsiveness and persistence in resolving technical issues.

Community outreach also remained a priority. The hospital hosted several public information sessions ahead of the sales tax vote, including a Milan meeting attended by more than 130 people with local media coverage. Gragg was interviewed by KTTN in mid- March. SCMH Foundation members supported these efforts and will host a Western-themed murder mystery fundraiser on June 7.

Hospital leaders met March 31 with the Rural Electric Cooperative Board to discuss the hospital development project. On April 10, Gragg joined other rural hospital executives and Missouri Hospital Association representatives in a meeting with state lawmakers to discuss challenges with prior authorization requirements, which continue to delay patient care.

In partnership with the Northeast Missouri Area Health Education Center (NEMO AHEC), SCMH offered healthcare career pathway events for students this spring. A cardiology-focused session was held March 17, and an April session centered on hospital pharmacy. A summer MASH Camp is planned for July 8–9 for junior high and high school students.

The hospital also prepared for National Hospital Week, including a community health fair held May 7 in collaboration with the Sullivan County Health Department.

In addition to new developments, SCMH approved several internal changes. The Board of Trustees voted in March to change their monthly meeting time from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with bylaw revisions approved in April to reflect the new schedule. Several medical staff appointments and reappointments were also approved during the spring meetings.

Longtime Health Information Coder LouAnn Abbott retired April 30 after 29 years with the hospital. A retirement party was held in her honor that afternoon.

Financially, the hospital reported a loss of $114,775 in February and $103,146 in March. Hospital officials continue to work with Blue Cross Blue Shield to correct a system error that has been incorrectly denying claims due to an outdated payor ID.

The next Sullivan County Memorial Hospital board meeting