HRRMC, aka Salida Hospital District, is a form of local government granted authority by state law Title 32 and governed by a publicly elected board with a clear mission: “to enhance the health of our community through the delivery of personalized and exceptional care” [4]. Recent news articles and the LWV/Chaffee County Public Health’s “Access to Healthcare Survey” have suggested that the community's needs have not been translated into the policy and budget priorities of our hospital district [1][2][3].
In 2024, HRRMC reported over $300 million in revenue with over $15 million in net income, a 5% profit margin [5]. In recent years, the hospital has consistently exceeded its profit targets, ending the year with a 10.3% profit margin and an $8.8 million increase in net position [5]. The *Access to Healthcare Survey* identified the cost of care as a significant problem for residents [1][2]. Those positive margins demand scrutiny because hospital revenue comes directly from citizens’ taxes, copays, and premiums. For example, colonoscopies are priced at $7,100 at HRRMC, while the national average is between $1,600 and $2,600 [1].
The current board has more than fulfilled its fiscal responsibility [5], yet we deserve a board with visionary leadership for community benefit, not only positive margins from the hospital’s perspective [6].
Where is the profit going, and how is it serving community health outcomes?
If you want:
Clear reporting on how profits are reinvested.
Immediate reforms in pricing practices.
A renewed commitment to affordability, access, and staff support.
Make your voice heard:
Join the Candidate Forum hosted by the League of Women Voters
Wednesday, April 23 at 6 p.m.
Details: https://www.lwvchaffeecounty.org/content.aspx?page_id=4091&club_id=520998&item_id=2603749
Then vote in the HRRMC Board Election on May 6
Learn about the candidates: arkvalleyvoice.com/meet-the-candidates-heart-of-the-rockies-regional-medical-center-board-election-to-be-held-on-may-6/