Hospital CEO Tiffany Means led talks at the Hospital Commission’s Nov. 12 workshop going over the 2026 budget that will be voted on in December.
Means started saying that October had been a good month, which CFO Cynthia Asbury confirmed, with $1 million in gross charge capture. She said they are projecting an 8 percent growth in 2026 with a focus on increasing outpatient services as well as facility needs such as helipad and parking upgrades. Means also said commissioners would see an increase in marketing costs as the hospital rebrands.
Means said the hospital would continue with its 16-week budgeting process into 2026 where the financials are internally reviewed regularly. She noted that first quarter changes to services as well as grant applications, and general lower historical revenue that any growth would be delayed to the second quarter and beyond. She also mentioned that there is an expected 10 – 20 percent increase in labor and supply cost, though the increased supply costs were already being felt due to tariffs with her saying “I don’t see an end to this yet.”
Means also mentioned that the age of the facility is an important factor. Currently budgeted in capital improvements for 2026 is $100,000 which is the estimate for helipad and parking lot upgrades. Means said the hospital would have to be strategic on upgrades and additions, saying there is a high risk that unexpected expenses come up due to the facility’s age.