Hospitals

MetroHealth raised a record $10.8M in donations last year

Public safety-net hospital MetroHealth System reported that its charitable foundation raised more money in 2011, $10.8 million, than in any previous year. That’s an impressive accomplishment for MetroHealth, considering that 2011 was a rough year for the hospital. MetroHealth was pummeled by the local press for a series of public relations gaffes and faced increasing […]

Public safety-net hospital MetroHealth System reported that its charitable foundation raised more money in 2011, $10.8 million, than in any previous year.

That’s an impressive accomplishment for MetroHealth, considering that 2011 was a rough year for the hospital. MetroHealth was pummeled by the local press for a series of public relations gaffes and faced increasing scrutiny from local government officials who provide a small subsidy to the hospital.

MetroHealth is looking for a new CEO after Mark Moran announced late last year that he planned to step down. Finding the ideal candidate won’t be easy, since CEO of a public safety-net hospital is likely among the toughest jobs in healthcare.

MetroHealth Foundation’s 2011 fundraising exceeded its previous annual best, which happened the prior year, by nearly 13 percent, according to a statement from the health system.

Hospital officials attributed the surge in funding to a few factors, including more than $1 million in donations from MetroHealth employees and physicians, as well as a black-tie ball to celebrate Metro’s 175th anniversary that raised $800,000.

Things are looking up for MetroHealth in other ways, too. After suffering a $2.7 million loss last year, hospitals officials are feeling optimistic about 2012 and are predicting a $10 million surplus. Rising patient volume, a reduction in staffing expenses and an increase in outpatient services are pointing toward an improved 2012 for the hospital.

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Additionally, Standard & Poor’s recently reaffirmed the Metro’s A- bond rating and stable outlook, Crain’s Cleveland Business reported.