PULLMAN, Wash. — Pullman Regional Hospital told staff members Wednesday that it is reducing pay over the next 60 days due to financial challenges related to the coronavirus outbreak.
In a press release, a hospital spokesperson said pay is being reduced 25% for all hourly and salary employees over the next 60 days to make $1 million in cash available immediately for operations. The reductions start with April 11 pay period, the release stated.
Due to state regulations, the hospital stopped elective surgeries and is limiting outpatient procedures. This has caused a decrease in volumes or some services to shut down completely, the release said.
A hospital spokesperson said other small, critical access hospitals in Washington have less than 30 days cash on hand and are in danger of closing. As of Thursday, Pullman Regional has 64 days cash on hand. They are working on a goal to not fall below 30 days cash on hand, according to the press release.
Other measures implemented include unpaid furloughs for employees, capping organizational overtime, limited paid time off and no cash reimbursement for paid leave time not taken.
According to a hospital spokesperson, in addition to seeking government funding, such as FEMA, the CARES Act and Medicare Advance Payment, Pullman Regional Hospital and the Foundation have started a COVID-19 Fund, a philanthropic effort that has raised more than $330,000 as of Thursday.
If you would like to donate, you can do so online or contact the Foundation at 509-332-2046.