Monthly Board Meeting August 20, 2026

Patient volumes rise with monthly report demonstrating success with profitability

HEREFORD — Hereford Regional Medical Center reported continued improvement in patient activity during July, including higher emergency room visits and Rural Health Clinic encounters, even as the hospital finished the month with a net loss.

Hospital officials told the Deaf Smith County Hospital District board during its Aug. 20 meeting that July included 662 emergency room visits, approximately 2,500 clinic encounters, 24 newborn deliveries and 26 observation visits. Administrators said outpatient revenue increased, driven primarily by higher emergency department and laboratory volumes.

Financial and Patient Volume

Despite the increase in several patient-volume measures, the hospital reported a July net loss of $249,371. Year to date, however, the district remained profitable, reporting a net gain of $1.22 million.

Hospital finances also showed relatively strong liquidity, with 324 days cash on hand, 42 net days in accounts receivable and a current ratio of 5.7.

Inpatient revenue remained below the previous year, while outpatient revenue increased. Hospital officials said operational volumes generally showed improvement in bed utilization, emergency room visits and Rural Health Clinic encounters, although increasing utilization and service volumes remains an administrative priority.

The board also reviewed its preliminary 2026-27 budget and approved proposed tax rates, including a maintenance and operations rate of 0.263285 and an interest and sinking rate of 0.074521.

Workforce and Staffing

The hospital continued expanding and adjusting its medical staff during the month.

Dr. Okobi has joined the medical staff and is training in women’s health and obstetrics, including C-sections, while Dr. McCullough is expected to return in September. Orthopedic services with Dr. Rollins continue monthly, and pain-management services remain available.

The board also approved physician appointments or reappointments in hospitalist medicine, emergency medicine, family medicine and OB/GYN, along with two certified registered nurse anesthetists.

Employee benefits options were presented from three groups offering options for the district’s 2027 employee health insurance plan, including proposals involving self-funded coverage, different provider networks and potential strategies for reducing employee and district costs. No final selection was made.

Other Board Business

The board approved two capital purchases: more than $70,000 in lighting improvements for Labor and Delivery and an approximately $61,000 camera system for the district.

Board members also approved a resolution supporting Hereford Regional Medical Center’s continued Level IV trauma designation, citing the hospital’s role in providing timely trauma care and participating in regional and statewide emergency medical systems.