NC Regulators Inspect Mission/HCA in Asheville After Patient Deaths

State Health Regulators Conduct Inspection Following Compliance Problems

State health regulators are currently conducting another inspection of Mission Hospital in Asheville following patient deaths and other compliance issues. The inspection began on May 20 as regulators aim to ensure that the hospital has addressed the previous problems that led to a “immediate jeopardy” status in December 2023.

Nurse Union Representative Notes Management Improvements During Inspections

A representative from the nurse union welcomed the inspection, stating that management tends to improve conditions when regulators are present. The hospital spokesperson denied any such correlation between the inspections and management changes. The initial “immediate jeopardy” status was resolved by Mission Hospital in February 28 through corrections.

Remaining Problems Identified by Regulators

Despite the removal of the immediate jeopardy status, Mission Hospital still faces risks of losing government funding due to lingering issues with patient’s rights, quality assessment, performance improvement, nursing, laboratory services, emergency services, and emergency screening.

Unannounced Visit to Determine Hospital’s Compliance

The ongoing unannounced inspection, which was expected before June 5, aims to assess whether Mission Hospital has rectified the identified problems. Failure to address these issues could result in a 15-day notice for termination of Medicare payments, with the hospital having the option to appeal.

State Health Department and Mission Hospital Responses

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services declined to comment on the ongoing inspection, while Mission Hospital’s spokesperson acknowledged the improvement efforts taken since the previous visit. Mission Hospital remains committed to providing safe and quality care to the community.

Nurse Union’s Perspective on the Inspection

A nurse union member expressed gratitude for the presence of inspectors, noting that staffing levels at the hospital tend to improve when regulators are on-site. The union has been advocating for better staffing conditions and incentives for on-call nurses to enhance patient care.

Denial of Inspector-Induced Changes by Hospital Management

The hospital management, however, denied that the presence of inspectors influenced staffing changes, stating that regular procedures were followed. Negotiations between the nurse union and Mission/HCA are ongoing to address concerns and improve working conditions.

Conclusion:

As the inspection at Mission Hospital in Asheville continues, stakeholders are hopeful that the hospital will successfully address the compliance issues to ensure the delivery of quality care to patients. The nurse union’s advocacy for improved staffing and working conditions remains a focal point in ongoing negotiations with hospital management.