Area Hospitals Back Community Survey
By: Charlotte Ames
Updated: August 9, 2012
Three area hospitals are joining forces to promote a survey of healthcare needs and other issues in their community. Two weeks ago, 3,000 surveys went out to Blair County households. They ask residents their concerns about jobs, education, healthcare and other issues,
On Thursday, the CEOs of Altoona Regional Health System, Nason Hospital and Tyrone Hospital announced their support of the Blair County Needs Assessment. It's being conducted by community organzations which make up the Healthy Blair County Coaltion.
The federal Affordable Health Care Act requires that hospitals participate in this type of survey. Altoona Regional CEO Jerry Murray said, "we're going to be held acountable and have to demonstrate that we've developed programs and services to change those needs."
If the hospitals don't participate in this type of assessment every three years, they each face a $50,000 fine and the loss of their tax exempt status.
The Healthy Blair County Coalition says a previous survey led to creation of local a group to address poverty in the community.
On Thursday, the CEOs of Altoona Regional Health System, Nason Hospital and Tyrone Hospital announced their support of the Blair County Needs Assessment. It's being conducted by community organzations which make up the Healthy Blair County Coaltion.
The federal Affordable Health Care Act requires that hospitals participate in this type of survey. Altoona Regional CEO Jerry Murray said, "we're going to be held acountable and have to demonstrate that we've developed programs and services to change those needs."
If the hospitals don't participate in this type of assessment every three years, they each face a $50,000 fine and the loss of their tax exempt status.
The Healthy Blair County Coalition says a previous survey led to creation of local a group to address poverty in the community.
Charlotte Ames is the area's only local Health Reporter and brings you the latest medical health news weeknights. You can catch Healthcast on WTAJ News at 5:00pm and her Health Headlines report on WTAJ News at 5:30pm.