Atlantic General Hospital thinking about changing or expanding current business model

BERLIN, Md – Atlantic General Hospital has been providing high-quality care for decades, but there has been some thought to change or rework the current business model.

“Our board has undertaken an evaluation process, really looking at the challenges that exist in healthcare at a global level but acutely a local level,” said CEO of Atlantic General Don Owrey.

Whether that means being independent or joining a hospital network, all options are currently on the table, however, the current economy has made these problems more apparent.

“The challenges around physician recruitments, around attracting and retaining a qualified a talented workforce, those challenges prevail regardless of your size, whether your independent or a part of a large health system.” Said Owrey.

As the board continues to explore the best way forward, money will play a vital part in how to make the decision. “Would some of the challenges be lessened if we were a part of a bigger organization that had increased scale, deeper pockets so to speak.”

However, staying committed to the community where they have provided for several years, is still a top priority. Owrey feels indebted to the community that he serves, “we’re important to the community, we’re an anchor institution in the community and access to high-quality healthcare is important and we must provide for that.”

And while no decision has been confirmed yet, Owrey continues to promote that the hospital is in its early stages and will perform business as usual. “But we’re going to be responsible and prudent in terms of evaluating in how we best meet the needs of the community, not just for today but as we look forward, the goal is to be a vibrant and thriving health system.”