Serving the High Plains

Commission to address emergency room billing issues

County Commissioners are seeking answers after residents raised concerns about the billing at Dan C. Trigg Memorial Hospital's Emergency Room.

"It has been brought to my attention that local residents are being billed as out-of-network patients at our own ER," said Sue Dowell, District 2 Commissioner.

Dowell brought the issue up to County Manager Richard Primrose following his report during Monday's regular meeting.

"We need to have this issue addressed," said Mike Cherry, District 1 Commissioner.

Dowell said there is a great concern for area patients being billed for out of network services. She said in-network or out-of-network status affects not only out-of-pocket costs, but what services are available.

Primrose said he would look into the matter to determine what could be causing the issue.

Lobbyist Clint Harden gave a presentation to the commission outlining the issues he covered for the county during the last legislative session.

"I want to thank you all for choosing me to represent you in Santa Fe," Harden said.

Harden said he spoke on several issues on behalf of the interest of Quay County during the 30 day legislative session. He said he was most pleased with the capital outlay allocations from severance tax bonds and the General Obligation Bond funding that will go before voters in Nov. for approval.

"We want to thank you for the work you did to represent our county's interest," said Franklin McCasland, Commission Chair.

The commission honored the services of United State Department of Agriculture Wildlife specialist Ron Jones.

"Ron Jones has served the residents of Quay County with great dedication," McCasland said. "Ron has always put the service of others ahead of himself."

Dowell said Ron has had not only the support of the commissioners, but of the landowners, rachers and farmers of the county. She said donations to the county by the ranchers and farmers over the years have helped to pay for the services he has provided services.

Other items before the commission

• Quay County Sheriff Rusell Shafer requested the approval of the submission of the application for the Law Enforcement Protection Fund in the amount of $23,016. The application was approved.

• Presbyterian Medical Services Administrator Renee Hayoz gave a monthly Rural Primary Health Care Act report.

• Quay County Road Superintendent Larry Moore requested the approval of Resolution No. 26, certifying the County's Maintained Road Mileage. The resolution was approved.

 
 
Rendered 03/04/2024 09:46