Navigating Challenges in Rural Healthcare: HSHS Closures and CEO’s Commitment to Community Care

In an interview with Catholic Health World’s Julie Minda, Damond Boatwright, President and CEO of HSHS, discussed the recent closure of several locations in western Wisconsin and its impact on rural health care. Boatwright revealed that more than 60% of vulnerable populations, including Medicaid and Medicare patients, utilized HSHS hospitals. He spoke about the efforts made by the organization to improve the situation before making the difficult decision to close.

One such effort was launching its own insurance company. However, despite these attempts, HSHS faced challenges due to an oversupplied market. Despite this, Boatwright acknowledged that HSHS took steps to collaborate with other healthcare providers and elected officials to ensure a smooth transition for patients.

Boatwright also discussed how the community reacted to the closures, noting that it mirrored the stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, and acceptance. Despite this reaction, Boatwright emphasized that HSHS took responsibility for its actions and remained committed to doing what was right for the community.

Boatwright highlighted how other organizations in similar situations may have simply left the market without considering the impact on their communities. However, he expressed a sense of responsibility and dedication to ensuring a positive outcome for all involved in the closure process.

Overall, Boatwright’s discussion with Minda revealed how HSHS prioritized its values and its commitment to doing what was best for rural communities in western Wisconsin despite facing significant challenges in an oversupplied market.