WhidbeyHealth Board of Commissioners, August 17,2023

​Name of Observer: Judy Hucka
Observed Meeting:   WhidbeyHealth Board of Commissioners
Date of Meeting: August 17, 2023
Members present: Members present: All five commissioners were present: President Ron Wallin, Gregory Richardson, James Golder, Morgan Cooper, Eric Anderson.
Members absent: 0
Others present (staff, media, public):  Staff members present: CEO Nathan Staggs, Dr. Robert Wagner, (former chief of staff, filling in for Dr David Lemme), John Freeman (Associate Vice President of HealthTech Management Services), Shanna Harney-Bates (Quality), Paul Rogers (Finance), Tim Waldner (IT/Ancillary Services), Samar Arny (Director, WhidbeyHealth Foundation).\

Summarize the main issues discussed at the meeting:
The meeting was primarily devoted to routine reports. One recurring topic was progress being made in attracting new providers (doctors, nurses, etc.) to WhidbeyHealth, reducing the need to hire temporary locums, which are expensive. This is a reflection of the improving reputation of WhidbeyHealth and the positive turnaround in management, finances and staff morale. Another recurring topic was the nationwide problem of long wait times to see primary care providers, which WhidbeyHealth is also experiencing. Financial results for July were somewhat mixed, due to a variety of factors. Still a sense that financial situation is gradually improving.

A new women’s clinic is opening soon near the hospital in Coupeville. A new CT unit is being built.

Continuing discussion on the need to market WH’s services and tell the community about the marked improvement in management, finances and health care services. A new marketing director has been hired and will be on board soon.

List any issues on the agenda relevant to any LWV state or local positions or programs: 
(League positions can be found here.
None

Do you recommend local League action or study on any of these issues? No    
If ‘yes’ what action do you recommend?

Was the meeting conducted in an open, business-like, and civil manner?  Yes

Consider the following questions and respond if relevant:
Was the agenda made available prior to and at the meeting? Yes
Did members adhere to the provided agenda? Yes
Were any non-agenda items discussed?  No
Was there adequate discussion of issues?  Yes
Were any “Executive Sessions” called? No
Was there adequate opportunity for public input? Yes
Was background material available to the public? Yes, I assume so.
Did any member recuse themselves during the meeting? No
If yes, for what reason?
List any other concerns or observations: None

Observer E-mail: judy.hucka@gmail.com                                            Date submitted:  8/17/2023