PEER reviewed the state’s charity hospitals to assess their efficiency, financial management, use of federal grant resources, and to analyze statewide indigent medical care options.
Findings by federal physician review teams, a medical consultant employed by the PEER Committee, and the state Department of Health Facility Licensure and Certification Division reveal serious deficiencies concerning the quality of health care provided at the state charity hospitals. On October 1, 1986, federal outpatient clinic grants previously awarded to the hospitals were not renewed due primarily to the quality of health care provided at the hospitals. The Eleemosynary Board, which governs the hospitals, also failed to fully utilize federal grant resources, implement uniform and adequate accounts receivable policies and procedures, or to institute sufficient accounting internal control principles.
The Legislature has numerous options available should it decide to alter current indigent health care strategies.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.