Kenneth Bellian
Vice PresidentJensen PartnersKen is a medical doctor with an MBA providing clients with the physician executive perspective, a deep understanding of the complex challenges that exist in healthcare, and the expertise to identify and deliver creative solutions. His superb facilitation skills bring together the experience of being a practicing surgeon, chief clinical officer, entrepreneur, and strategic healthcare consultant. He excels at driving consensus and decision-making in support of operational efficiency and effectiveness, patient-focused healthcare delivery, and the evolution of care models as the driving forces for healthcare facility planning.
E39 – Is There a Future for Independent Rural Hospitals?
Across the U.S., hundreds of rural hospitals have closed since 2005, and more are expected to close in the coming years. Rural hospitals face mounting…Across the U.S., hundreds of rural hospitals have closed since 2005, and more are expected to close in the coming years. Rural hospitals face mounting financial and operational pressures, raising a critical question: Can independent rural hospitals s…Across the U.S., hundreds of rural hospitals have closed since 2005, and more are expected to close in the coming years. Rural hospitals face mounting financial and operational pressures, raising a critical question: Can independent rural hospitals survive? Declining reimbursement rates, high expenses, and unpredictable patient volumes have created a sustainability crisis for these facilities. While rural hospitals are essential for community hea…Across the U.S., hundreds of rural hospitals have closed since 2005, and more are expected to close in the coming years. Rural hospitals face mounting financial and operational pressures, raising a critical question: Can independent rural hospitals survive? Declining reimbursement rates, high expenses, and unpredictable patient volumes have created a sustainability crisis for these facilities. While rural hospitals are essential for community health and emergency preparedness, traditional payer models often fail to account for the cost of maintaining readiness when average daily volumes are low. This session will explore strategies for repositioning rural hospitals, drawing on lessons from projects with Northern Light Health, Telluride Regional Medical Center, Intermountain Health, and others. We will examine scenarios ranging from right-sized facility replacement to partnerships and shared services models that improve efficiency and purchasing power. Attendees will gain insight into how strategic planning, facility design, and operational optimization can help rural hospitals adapt or determine when independence is no longer viable.Show MoreClick the title to see all detailsShow More
