Stories about struggling rural hospitals are not uncommon, with low revenue and high employee turnover being longstanding issues in the industry. In Northeast Georgia, Hart County closed its hospital, while Habersham Medical Center managed to stay afloat by transferring ownership to Northeast Georgia Health System.
However, a remarkable transformation is taking place at Stephens County Hospital (SCH), a 96-bed acute care facility in Toccoa, which just a few years ago faced a $7.6 million annual loss. Under the leadership of Van Loskoski, a Georgia Tech graduate with a background in healthcare analysis, the hospital is on track to achieve a modest profit this year.
Loskoski’s journey at SCH began in 2019 when he was hired as the vice president of physician practices. Through strategic decision-making and teamwork, he swiftly moved up the ranks to become the CEO in September 2021. Faced with significant debt and operational challenges, Loskoski embarked on a mission to enhance employee recruitment, elevate the hospital’s reputation, and bolster its financial standing.
One of the pivotal strategies employed by Loskoski was to assemble a dedicated team of administrators, staff, and partners to revamp the hospital’s image. This concerted effort has not only improved employee satisfaction but has also positioned SCH as an emerging player in the healthcare sector.
By focusing on community needs, transparency, and regional healthcare demands, SCH managed to significantly increase its gross revenue by $19 million in a year. One key initiative was addressing the out-migration of patients seeking general surgery services elsewhere. By recruiting skilled physicians like Dr. Cecil Brown and expanding orthopedic services, SCH has become a center of excellence in knee and hip replacement surgeries.
Furthermore, strategic partnerships with hospital internist groups, Northside Hospital for cardiovascular care, and Wellstar Health System for stroke care have further solidified SCH’s position as a provider of comprehensive healthcare services. These collaborations have not only improved patient outcomes but have also contributed to the hospital’s financial resurgence.
In addition to service expansions, SCH has prioritized workforce culture by investing in staff retention and development. By offering competitive wages, reinvesting in retirement plans, and reducing nursing turnover rates from 52% to 11%, the hospital has fostered a more supportive and patient-centric environment.
Looking ahead, SCH aims to establish a regional trauma center by 2025, building on its recent successes and commitment to providing accessible and high-quality healthcare services to the community. With a dedicated team and visionary leadership, Stephens County Hospital is poised to continue its transformative journey in the healthcare landscape.