Buncombe County Files Federal Complaint Against HCA/Mission Hospital Over $3 Million in Losses

Buncombe County -- September 12, 2024: Buncombe County has taken a bold step by filing a federal complaint against

HCA Healthcare, the parent company of Mission Health System. The complaint, lodged in the U.S. District Court, cites substantial financial losses and negative impacts on community health services due to the healthcare giant's policies and practices. The county claims damages exceeding $3 million, alleging that HCA’s business practices since acquiring Mission Health in 2019 have compromised the quality of healthcare and raised operational costs for local government services.

Background: The HCA-Mission Health Acquisition

In 2019, HCA Healthcare, one of the largest for-profit hospital operators in the United States, acquired Mission Health, a nonprofit health system serving Western North Carolina. The acquisition, valued at $1.5 billion, promised improved access
to healthcare, investments in local facilities, and a commitment to quality care. However, since the takeover, concerns have been growing among local residents, healthcare professionals, and government officials regarding increased costs, reduced services, and deteriorating healthcare quality.

The federal complaint from Buncombe County focuses on the direct economic impact the HCA/Mission Hospital policies have had on the county. County officials argue that the changes implemented by HCA have led to a decline in the quality and availability of healthcare services, which, in turn, has forced the county to allocate additional resources to cover gaps in care and address public health needs.

According to the complaint, the county has experienced financial losses of over $3 million since the acquisition. These losses stem from increased emergency response costs, higher rates of uncompensated care, and the burden of addressing critical health needs not met by the hospital. The county also contends that HCA’s policies have strained local public health services and led to negative health outcomes for residents, particularly in underserved communities.

Allegations of Reduced Access and Quality of Care

The complaint alleges that HCA has systematically reduced access to essential medical services, particularly for low-income and rural residents. Buncombe County officials claim that HCA has closed or downsized critical departments, including labor and delivery, mental health, and emergency services. This has forced patients to travel longer distances for care, increasing the burden on the county’s emergency medical services and public health infrastructure.

Furthermore, the complaint raises concerns about staffing levels and practices at Mission Hospital. County officials argue that cost-cutting measures, such as reducing the number of nurses and medical staff, have compromised patient care and safety. The alleged decline in care quality has led to adverse health outcomes and increased readmission rates, adding to the county's financial strain.

Broader Implications and Community Response

Buncombe County’s lawsuit reflects broader dissatisfaction with HCA Healthcare's management of Mission Health. Since the acquisition, local residents and healthcare professionals have voiced concerns about higher healthcare costs, reduced access to care, and long wait times for medical services. Community advocacy groups have called for greater oversight and transparency regarding HCA’s operations and policies in Western North Carolina.

The legal action also underscores the county's commitment to holding healthcare providers accountable for their impact on public health and community welfare. Buncombe County officials have stated that their primary goal is to ensure that all residents have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and that they will continue to seek remedies through the courts and public policy channels.

HCA’s Response to the Complaint

HCA Healthcare has yet to formally respond to the federal complaint filed by Buncombe County. However, the company has previously defended its management of Mission Health, highlighting investments in local facilities, technology, and patient care programs. HCA maintains that it is committed to providing high-quality care and addressing the health needs of Western North Carolina residents.

Looking Ahead: Potential Outcomes and Impact

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for healthcare access and quality in Western North Carolina and beyond. If the court sides with Buncombe County, it could prompt other local governments to take similar legal actions against healthcare providers they believe are failing to meet their obligations. Additionally, it could lead to increased scrutiny and regulation of healthcare mergers and acquisitions, particularly when they involve nonprofit organizations transitioning to for-profit ownership.

As the case progresses, Buncombe County officials and community members remain hopeful that the lawsuit will bring about positive changes in the region’s healthcare landscape. The complaint is not only a call for financial restitution but also a demand for accountability and a renewed commitment to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare to all residents.

WNCTimes