One board member for Jennie Stuart Health has come forward, asking for pause in any potential agreement coming with Deaconess Health Systems of Evansville.
Also the South Western Kentucky Economic Development Council’s executive director and a former mayor of Hopkinsville, Carter Hendricks penned an op-ed Wednesday morning — noting he is “not ready” to see the local community leadership “wave the white flag, ceding ownership and control of the community’s single greatest asset: its hospital.”
He further noted this is especially true given the hospital’s “financial stability,” “healthy cash reserves” that were “meticulously developed” for rainy days — rainy days like the ones being observed with electronic records and billing.
Hendricks confirmed that officials attached to the hospital’s board, including other board members, have been aware of his position for “several weeks.” As such, he wanted to make his opinion publicly known, because hospital representatives continue to use the word “unanimous” to describe upcoming board decisions.
At this time, Hendricks said he “cannot support executing any letter of intent with any partner that results in a merger and/or sale of the hospital.” He added that the hospital only has “one chance to get this right,” and if officials follow through with the letter of intent, it is “irreversible.” And it’s these reasons, he said, he’s going to ask for a slow down, engagement for more input, and the seeking of a second opinion before making a “terminal choice.”
A native of Hopkinsville and Christian County, Hendricks referenced his time as Hopkinsville Community College instructor, Military Affairs director, Chamber of Commerce president, coach, volunteer, mayor and economic development director as key seats in which he and his family have had the opportunity to connect with the area and its hospital.
For Hendricks and his family, Jennie Stuart Health has been the place of births, surgeries and rehabs, and it was the “last earthly stop” for both of his parents.
Board members have signed non-disclosure agreements during this process, something Hendricks still hasn’t broken — by not discussing any potential terms or details in the possible joining.
Another public meeting with hospital officials is expected to come before the board reconvenes in early December.
