In a recent development, the Lewis County Health System is set to receive repayment from the county for millions of dollars borrowed in 2018 for the construction of the Jefferson Community College Education Center. The Health and Human Services Committee has approved moving $2.5 million from this year’s fund balance and an additional $1 million per year over the next two years towards repayment.
The funds will be used for general operations but will also specifically assist in reopening the hospital’s maternity ward, which has been closed since 2016. Jeff Hellinger, CFO of Lewis County Health System, expressed optimism about the potential to move forward with reopening the ward, noting that a new provider recently started.
The repayment plan still requires approval from the full board of legislators. If approved, this reimbursement will provide crucial financial support to the health system and contribute to the potential reopening of the maternity ward. This news comes as a relief to many residents in Lewis County who have been without access to maternity care services for several years.