TL/DR –
The Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury has criticized the Mendocino Coast Health Care District Board for its mismanagement of hospital finances, lack of public transparency, and failure to follow laws applicable to elected officials. This comes after a year-long investigation into the Board’s operations, whose responsibilities and practices have undergone significant changes since the turnover of hospital operations to Adventist Health. Despite highlighting these issues, the report also acknowledges the Board’s recent efforts to improve, offering recommendations for further progress, such as more comprehensive training for new board members, the need for a financial review, and the establishment of a Public Advisory Committee.
Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury Critiques Health Care District Board’s Management
The Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury reported shortcomings in the management of the Mendocino Coast Health Care District Board (MCHCD). The year-long investigation highlights failure in following laws, serving public interest, and managing hospital finances.
Board Recognized for Improvement Efforts
However, the Grand Jury’s report “Sick, but Returning to Health,” recognizes the Board’s recent efforts to mitigate these issues. The report focuses on systemic problems within MCHCD, rather than individual grievances.
Board’s Struggles with Reorganization and Operational Responsibilities
The report pinpoints the Board’s inability to reorganize post the hospital’s operations turnover to Adventist Health. This impedes the Board’s capacity to acquire a bond for the state-mandated seismic retrofit of the hospital building. The Board’s operational and management difficulties include Board training, bylaws, finances, and public transparency.
Training and Assistance Needed for Board Members
According to the report, newly appointed Board members who lack necessary experience and training often breach the boundaries of legally scheduled public meetings. The Grand Jury recommends the Board seeks training and assistance from relevant state agencies.
Bylaws, Policies, and Procedures
Due to the lack of official bylaws, policy and procedural manual, the Board is struggling to function effectively. The report recommends adding policies concerning financial controls, technology, security, and comity.
Financial Mismanagement
The financial predicament of MCHCD is attributed to mismanagement rather than lack of funds. The Grand Jury highlighted evidence of this, including money placed in non-interest-bearing accounts resulting in significant interest losses yearly.
Public Education and Outreach Crucial
The report emphasizes the importance of public education on the role and responsibilities of the MCHCD since its affiliation with Adventist Health. Public outreach and a Public Advisory Committee are suggested to garner public feedback.
The Grand Jury addressed 20 findings and proposed 18 recommendations in its report. The complete report can be accessed on the Mendocino County government website.
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