By Lucas Willard
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-1000098.mp3
Pittsfield, MA – William Frado, president of Northern Berkshire Healthcare - or NBH -, and president and CEO of North Adams Regional Hospital announced on Sunday at the Maple Grove Civic Club in Adams that NBH is turning itself around. In fact, the company has had its first two profitable months since filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in June of 2011.
Frado spoke with WAMC and said one of the most important factors to keep business going in hard times while restructuring is to keep up morale of staff and patients, which leads to higher quality care.
Frado stated that the North Adams Regional Hospital placed in the 10 ten hospitals in the Commonwealth, and in the 99th percentile of hospitals nationwide
Northern Berkshire Healthcare had been facing rising costs associated with an aging population, more payments covered by Medicare and Medicaid - which accounts for less reimbursement than out-of-pocket exchanges, as well as a failed business move after the company purchased Sweetwood independent living and Sweet Brook primary care facilities.
John Krol of Sweetwood stated that the facility has turned itself around since NBH sold the property at a loss to a new owner in 2010.
Darlene Rodowicz, CFO of Berkshire Health Systems, says that while her company and Northern Berkshire Healthcare have their financial differences, there are some challenges that the Berkshire healthcare organizations must overcome, including the increase of payments through Medicare and Medicaid. Rodowicz also noted that Berkshire Health Systems is being cautious in the route ahead, paying close attention to potential changes in market from the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
William Frado said Sunday that as NBH is looking for ways to pay down its debt also meeting the challenge meeting agreements with the Massachusetts Nursing Association and Service Employees International Union. However, Frado remains optimistic, and hopes to have a plan approved in court soon.