Troubles for South Big Horn County Hospital

An investigation is ongoing into the practices at South Big Horn County Hospital in Basin.

According to a news release presented by the hospital, in February the board and hospital administration became aware of what they called “serious patient safety issues”, which prompted an internal investigation. Law enforcement was notified immediately, and the administration and board say they are cooperating.

But the hospital has seen more than just legal troubles lately. According to an employee survey, 12 percent of staff say they are unhappy or very unhappy with the current situation at the hospital and with their jobs, and three providers have resigned in the last month. Additionally, former board members have expressed their concern regarding decisions that have been made by the current administration.

According to an article in the Basin Republican Rustler, at last month’s board meeting, a Sheriff’s deputy had to be called in to mitigate an incident in which former board member Bill Burbridge and current board president Jeff Grant got into a heated exchange. According to witnesses, during the argument, Burbridge put his hand towards the gun he carries, which alarmed Grant and other people present at the meeting. No one was charged in the incident.

The next board meeting will be held at South Big Horn County Hospital in Basin tomorrow, March 22, at 5:30 p.m.