July 17, 2015

Rep. Carpino, Middlesex Delegation Visit Local Hospital

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MIDDLETOWN – State Representatives Christie Carpino (Cromwell, Portland), Jesse MacLachlan (Clinton, Killingworth, Westbrook), and Devin Carney (Lyme, Old Lyme, Saybook, Westbrook) visited Middlesex Hospital on Friday in order to tour the facility and discuss the impact of legislation affecting hospitals. The legislators met with Vincent G. Capece, President and C.E.O, as well as Dr. Arthur “Bud” McDowell, V.P. Clinical Affairs. Hospital operations were a central focus of the 2015 Legislative Session, as several proposals from the Majority Party would have reduced Medicaid funding and increased taxes.

The controversial biennium budget, which all 3 legislators voted against, includes a large increase to the hospital taxes. As a result, hospitals – including Middlesex – are forced to look at operation costs to remain functional.

While meeting with the hospital’s top officials it was evident that public policy has a direct effect on the hospital’s overall business. For instance, staffing levels must be constantly monitored and adjusted based on patient levels, which are consistently changing. As a result, administrative and operational procedures are constantly being streamlined. Therefore, the patient experience is ultimately challenged by the shrinking pool of resources.

“Hospitals in Connecticut provide top notch care to everyone that comes in the door. They deliver quality health care and are major employers,” said Rep. Carpino, a member of the Public Health Committee.

“I was glad to spend the time touring the facility and learning more about the effects this biennium budget will have on the hospital and its workforce,” noted Rep. MacLachlan. “Middlesex operates at the highest level of excellence, stressing quality, safety, and experience and I’m comforted knowing they have a presence in the 35th district.”

Rep. Carney also explained, “Our local hospitals are often taken for granted by the legislature despite the fact that they provide so much good for our communities. It is up to us in the General Assembly to make sure that we preserve the ability for all of our constituents to have easy access to quality care. However, if the current trend of increased taxing continues, smaller hospitals will be forced to consolidate or, in some cases, close.