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The Llano Hoerster Clinic began using a patient satisfaction survey last fall to help monitor and improve its service to the community. Results of the survey showed a strong approval rating for the clinic. Of the 962 patients who filled out the questionnaire at the end of their visit to the clinic, 99.7% said they would recommend the clinic to others. The results of the annual review of the Llano Hoerster Clinic were presented to the Llano County Hospital Authority Board of Directors by LMHS COO Linda Meredith at its regular monthly meeting last Thursday. Of the nine quality of service questions, four garnered above a 99% favorable responses, three topped 98%, and one came in at 97% favorable. Patients said the medical provider listened to them and explained the treatment, the staff was friendly and courteous, and the care received met or exceeded expectations. Scheduling of lab work and x-rays received the lowest rating, an 82.5% favorable response. The Llano Hoerster Clinic saw an average of 1,384 patients a month in 2009, with a peak of 1,525 patients seen during September. The clinic is staffed by six primary care physicians, two obstetricians, and two physician’s assistants.

During 2009, payment for patients seen at the Llano clinic was received from private insurance (30%), Medicare (29%), Medicaid (18%) and those termed “private pay” (23%). While insurance companies and federal programs negotiate a reduced fee for services with clinics and hospitals, private pay clients do not have that leverage in the healthcare market. However, the Llano clinic offers a 20% discount to private pay patients who do not have insurance if the patient pays at the time of service. LMHS CEO Kevin Leeper said some of the MHS clinics will officially change their names after the merger with Scott & White on June 1. However, in recognition of the significant contributions the Hoerster family has made to healthcare in Llano, the Llano clinic will continue to bear the Hoerster name even after the merger with Scott & White. LMHS Director of Finance Charles Miffleton said that although December was less than a desirable month financially for the healthcare system, the fiscal year to date figures show an increase in net revenues of 5.9% over the prior year. With expenses holding steady fiscal year to date, the healthcare system is close to breaking even on operations as of the end of 2009, showing a loss of $16,150. Although EMS continues to operate at a loss, the $155,382 deficit as of the end of 2009 is 28% less than at the end of 2008. Leeper said radiology services for LMHS will be handled by Scott & White Radiology Department as of Feb. 1. Leeper complimented LMHS’ prior radiology provider, Community Radiology Associates, for their excellent service and cooperation in the transition to a new provider. The board re-elected the same members to serve as officers of the healthcare system for 2010, including Mike Jenkins (President), Jodi Babcock (Vice President), Dr. Jack Franklin (Secretary) and Trudy Kelley (Treasurer). Leeper saved the best news for late in the meeting. The first week in January was a bountiful, joyful time at Llano Memorial Hospital. Two sets of twins and three additional babies were delivered early that week at the hospital. The next meeting of the hospital board will be Thursday, Feb. 25 at 4 p.m. at the Lamberry Building, 103 W. Lampasas, Llano. The public is welcome to attend.

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