HRMC: A timeline
Oct. 2006-Feb. 2008 — HRMC has several problems with federal inspectors, culminating in the threat to revoke its ability to get reimbursement for Medicare and Medicaid patients.
Feb. 13, 2008 — HRMC given notice that Medicare funding will be revoked Feb. 24. CEO David Rice does not go public — even to his board or the medical staff — in hopes of passing a last ditch follow-up inspection.
Feb. 22, 2008 — HRMC fails follow-up inspection. Legal notice appears in Asheville Citizen-Times that says HRMC will no longer be eligible to receive Medicare reimbursements, which alerts community.
Feb. 24, 2008 — Medicare and Medicaid status revoked at HRMC.
Feb. 25, 2008 — David Rice resigns as CEO.
March 3, 2008 — Hundreds gather at HRMC wearing purple ribbons to show community support for the hospital as it slips further into its financial morass.
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March 6, 2008 — HRMC Board Chairman Dr. Nancy Freeman resigns her seat, saying in a letter she wants “the healing to begin.” Dr. Henry Nathan appointed to replace Freeman on the board but not as chairman. Glenn White later appointed chairman.
March 10, 2008 — Consultants hired to help HRMC re-group issue an assessment blasting administration of former CEO David Rice, citing a “significant leadership failing.” Also, Future Directions Committee begins public discussions of potential merger options with another hospital or hospital system.
April 17, 2008 — HRMC passes Medicare inspection, first step toward full recertification.
May 21, 2008 — HRMC passes final inspection and regains Medicare and Medicaid certification.
Aug. 20, 2008 — Interim CEO Al Byers says hospital is breaking even for first time since crisis started.
September 2008 — Interim CEO Al Byers steps down, the last of the top administrators who worked under Rice to depart.
Oct. 1, 2008 — Michael Poore hired as new CEO for HRMC.
