Vermont's largest hospital is seeking approval to increase its budget by nearly 5 percent.
The Burlington Free Press reports that Fletcher Allen Health Care wants to raise an additional $44 million next year to cover operating expenses and new health reform initiatives, add 282 full-time positions and begin planning for a new building.
The proposals have been submitted to the Green Mountain Care Board, which has set a 3 percent cap on the budget growth it allows for hospitals. Hearings are set for Aug. 27-29.
Dr. John Brumsted, the hospital's president and CEO, says the hospital is financing some changes that benefit the whole state.