2018-08-15T07:05:08-05:00 2017-09-30 621517792 PYA P C 2220 Sutherland Ave Knoxville TN 37919 990 2016-10-01 581694098 NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER INC NORT 7702196646 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 305013899 Brian D Steines CFO 7702196646 2018-08-15 1 Deborah O Ernsberger P00364912 8656730844 2016 2022-09-23 18:48:47Z Carol Burrell 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 305013899 1109804165 0 X WWW.NGHS.COM X 1986 GA TO PROVIDE ACCESSIBLE QUALITY HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY. 15 12 0 772 5470341 -123212 1802655 1302274 1003075925 1079616815 10398662 27607923 912919 887680 1016190161 1109414692 2670088 2437510 0 0 381155872 452900870 0 0 0 530128803 585835941 913954763 1041174321 102235398 68240371 1531834284 1682101201 988479613 1153575540 543354671 528525661 X The mission of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is TO PROVIDE COMPREHENSIVE, ACCESSIBLE QUALITY HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY. 0 0 1002478454 2437510 1079826465 Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) provides a comprehensive range of acute care and specialty services through two campuses: a 100-bed hospital in Braselton and a 557-bed regional referral hospital in Gainesville. NGMC serves the area's low-income, uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable populations. NGMC Gainesville serves as the regional safety net hospital, with approximately half of its patients coming from outside of Hall County. As a not-for-profit hospital, NGMC reinvests all funds in excess of operating expenses into healthcare services for the community. The Medical Center receives no tax revenue from Hall or other counties served, and services are funded by revenue generated from operations. **See Schedule O for Program Service Accomplishments Continuation** 1002478454 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 553 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 X 15 12 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 GA X LINDA D NICHOLSON VP FinanceCONTROLLER 7702196646 743 SPRING STREET gainesville GA 30501 Alex Wayne Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Craig Brown MD Member, Vice Chief of Medical Staff - NGMC 40.00 X 68010 0 0 Deborah Mack Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Jack Keener Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Jackie Wallace Vice Chair 1.00 X 0 0 0 Jeff Terry MD Member, Chair of Practice Review 5.00 X 22000 0 0 John Nix Chair 1.00 1.00 X 0 0 0 Kaye Ann Herth Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Larry Dent Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Lua Blankenship Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Phillippa Lewis-Moss Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Preston Bowen Member 1.00 1.00 X 0 0 0 Rodney Smith MD Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Steve Blair Member 1.00 X 0 0 0 Tim Scully MD Member, THC Physician 1.00 40.00 X 0 375407 34506 Anthony Herdener VP, CFO, Executive Consultant - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 664003 111316 Brenda Simpson Chief Nursing Officer - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 257319 20896 Brian D Steines CFO - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 0 0 Carol Burrell President & CEO 1.00 40.00 X 0 1219656 908865 Chad Hatfield President - NGMC Barrow 1.00 40.00 X 0 0 0 Christopher Paravate Chief Information Officer - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 371893 77881 Daniel Tuffy President of Physician Services 1.00 40.00 X 0 0 0 Deborah Weber CHRO & VP Human Resources - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 333710 65836 Elyse Gates VP Revenue Cycle - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 248042 7726 Howard Walpole VP Clinical Effectiveness - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 405704 60778 John Delzell Jr VP Medical Education - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 0 0 John Turner VP Post Acute Care - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 122411 6836 John Williamson President - NGMC Braselton 40.00 1.00 X 0 418557 95785 Linda Nicholson VP Finance/Controller - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 279977 96069 Louis Smith Jr President - NGMC Gainesville 40.00 1.00 X 0 640171 105979 Melissa Tymchuk Chief of Staff 1.00 40.00 X 0 148692 30635 Penny Vigneau VP Heart & Vascular Services - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 110143 3308 Roy Griffin Jr VP Financial Planning & Decision Support - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 177312 21310 Samuel Johnson MD VP Medical Affairs & CMO - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 534596 87507 Sonja McLendon VP Chief of Oper. Excellence - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 400655 75183 Stephen Kelly Chief Compliance Officer - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 193180 23635 Tad Gomez VP Professional Support Services - NGMC 40.00 1.00 X 0 0 0 Tracy Vardeman VP Chief Strategy Executive - NGHS 1.00 40.00 X 0 382228 103449 Alan Wills Exec Director - HealtheConnections 40.00 X 0 235885 27449 Harold Law Jr Chief Technology Officer 40.00 X 0 248946 26629 Jeffery Stephens Exec Director - Supply Chain Mgmt. 40.00 X 0 237636 13682 Randall Miller Manager - Radiation Physics 40.00 X 0 257373 45449 Richard Mattheus Chief Information Officer - NGPG 40.00 X 0 228744 37609 James Bailey Former VP-CMIO/CQO, Current NGPG Physician 0.00 40.00 X 0 518323 27141 Randy Smith Former Interim CNO 1.00 40.00 X 0 190152 7892 Debra Duke Former Director of Diagnostic Imaging 40.00 X 0 193260 61107 90010 9393975 2184458 357 1 1 0 Epic Systems Corporation PO Box 88314 Milwaukee WI 53288 Software Support & Training 8149186 Medifis Inc PO Box 5068 New York NY 10087 Staffing Services 6809045 Anesthesia Associates of Gainesville PO Box 1076 Gainesville GA 30503 Anesthesia Services 4012423 McKesson Technologies 22423 Network Place Chicago IL 60673 Software/Equip Maintenance & Support 3752364 CSI Companies Inc PO Box 890841 Charlotte NC 28289 IT Contract O/S 3198964 414 1302274 1302274 net patient svc rev 621400 1060527651 1055231547 5296104 Pharmacy 446110 13406441 13406441 Cafeteria Revenue 722210 5508486 5508486 management revenue 900099 174237 174237 1079616815 27019952 27019952 804378 126348 678030 678030 678030 803072 48024 0 263125 803072 -215101 587971 587971 Partnership Income 621990 209650 209650 209650 1109414692 1055441197 5470341 47200880 2437510 2437510 1954305 1867592 86713 366828656 350552469 16276187 15856863 15153294 703569 52535905 50204887 2331018 15725141 15027416 697725 43989970 42038135 1951835 1311313 1253130 58183 2084130 1991657 92473 49565184 47365977 2199207 644252 615667 28585 10048297 9602454 445843 552693 528170 24523 37832373 36153751 1678622 68336891 65304783 3032108 supplies 133220476 127309483 5910993 BAD DEBT EXPENSE 83592320 83592320 Medical Supplies 52301129 52301129 NOE - Loss-early ext db 45413740 43398732 2015008 56943173 55779898 1163275 1041174321 1002478454 38695867 0 10830552 21701733 111919 77902 100452558 106229994 38626 460316 417579 7983603 9133007 1594196 3559243 1310620732 646710339 617047638 663910393 780850910 850832231 70972 70972 600484 1177739 11831136 24951782 1531834284 1682101201 86137806 95908790 859300144 1017605287 43041663 40061463 988479613 1153575540 X 543354671 528525661 543354671 528525661 1531834284 1682101201 X 68240371 28418460 -111487841 X 0 1 X 1 0 X RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED RESTRICTED 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 38977 38977 0 Part II-B, Line 1: NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER, INC. PAYS MEMBERSHIP DUES TO THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS: -AMERICAN COLLEGE OF HEALTHCARE -AMERICAN HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENT Association -AMERICAN ACADEMY OF SLEEP -SOCIETY FOR HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT -AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS -AMERICAN SOCIETY OF RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGISTS -AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS -AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY -SOCIETY FOR VASCULAR ULTRASOUND -NATIONAL HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE ORGANIZATION -SOCIETY OF DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL SONOGRAPHY -AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NEUROSCIENCE NURSES -GREATER HALL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE -340B HEALTH -COLLEGE OF HEALTHCARE INFORMATION MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVES -AMERICAN ORGANIZATION OF NURSING EXECUTIVES -ASSOCIATION FOR PROFESSIONALS IN INFECTION CONTROL AND EPIDEMIOLOGY -SOCIETY OF TRAUMA NURSES -SOCIETY OF THORACIC SURGEONS -COLLEGE OF AMERICAN PATHOLOGISTS -AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR HEALTHCARE HUMAN RESOURCES ADMINISTRATION -GEORGIA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION -AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION -AMERICAN MEDICAL REHABILITATION PROVIDERS ASSOCIATION -AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ELECTRONEURODIAGNOSTIC TECHNOLOGISTS -GEORGIA HEALTH CARE ASSOCIATION -AMERICAN COLLEGE OF HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVES -GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS A PORTION OF THESE DUES IS DESIGNATED FOR LOBBYING ACTIVITIES BY THESE ORGANIZATIONS. 18583043 3314674 150450 2291945 -9178 19765400 18118047 3540926 196428 3336244 -63886 18583043 16101021 3145604 -73802 1137475 -82699 18118047 16849889 3570704 138946 4410931 47587 16101021 15041133 4067156 139010 2329610 67800 16849889 0.26710 0.73290 0 1 1 9170006 9170006 588189776 185982548 402207228 11948635 9298604 2650031 597618118 437763604 159854514 103694197 13665583 90028614 663910393 Estimated Third Party Payer Settlements 10174503 Capitalized Leases 10694209 Deferred Compensation 15868907 Estimated Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps 3323844 40061463 X 987225593 10460952 126348 10587300 976638293 2084130 130692269 132776399 1109414692 907110766 126348 126348 906984418 2084130 132105773 134189903 1041174321 Part X, Line 2: Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. (NGMC) is classified as an organization exempt from income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, no provision for income taxes has been made in the accompanying financial statements. At September 30, 2017, management does not believe NGMC holds any uncertain tax positions that would require financial statement recognition or disclosure under generally accepted accounting principles. It is NGMC's policy to recognize interest and/or penalties related to income tax matters as an operating expense where applicable. Part XI, Line 2d - Other Adjustments: RENTAL EXPENSES 126,348. Part XI, Line 4b - Other Adjustments: PARTNERSHIP Income NOT ON BOOKS 209,698. Net Assets Released from Restrictions 229,942. NON-OPERATING EXPENSES 1,246,569. Estimated Provision for Bad Debts 83,592,320. Loss on Bond Refunding 45,413,740. Part XII, Line 2d - Other Adjustments: RENTAL EXPENSES 126,348. Part XII, Line 4b - Other Adjustments: Non-Operating Expenses 1,246,569. Estimated Provision for Bad Debts 83,592,320. Partnership Expenses not on books 428. Contributions in Net Assets 1,852,716. Loss on Bond Refunding 45,413,740. 1 1 X 1 X 1 X 1 1 1 0 1 1 38571601 0 38571601 0.04030 110417767 90576764 19841003 0.02070 4663386 2139020 2524366 0.00260 153652754 92715784 60936970 0.06360 164305 2955826 1855 2953971 0.00310 3298527 1731272 1567255 0.00160 207485713 179925370 27560343 0.02880 806033 136782 669251 0.00070 712759 712759 0.00070 164305 215258858 181795279 33463579 0.03490 164305 368911612 274511063 94400549 0.09850 1 5 12221 12221 0.00000 0 10 25000 352865 146823 206042 0.00020 1 0 2500 250 2250 0.00000 4 101 613285 250 613035 0.00060 16 25106 980871 147323 833548 0.00080 1 83592319 211340852 254604117 -43263265 X 1 1 1 1 Northeast Georgia Medical Center Inc 743 Spring Street Gainesville GA 30501 www.nghs.com 069-074 X X X Northeast Georgia Medical Center Inc 1 0 0 1 X X X X X X X X X 16 1 0 0 1 X www.nghs.com X www.nghs.com/community-benefit-library X 1 16 1 See statement for Line 11 0 1 X 150.000000000000 300.000000000000 X 1 1 X X X 1 X www.nghs.com X www.nghs.com X www.nghs.com X X X X X X 1 X 0 X X X X 1 X 0 0 Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. Part V, Section B, Line 5: The hospital considered input from representatives of the community served by the hospital facility, including those with special knowledge of or expertise in public health via focus groups and key stakeholder interviews. Four focus groups (one for each NGMC service area), collectively comprised of forty-six (46) participants and twenty-eight (28) key informant interviews, were conducted in March and April 2016. Additional input from over 200 low income, Latino, and uninsured residents was also gathered by a bilingual interview team who fielded a short questionnaire in Hall County at one of three locations: the Hall County Health Department, mostly at the prenatal clinic - a service for low-income expectant women; the Good News Clinics, which provides medical and dental care to low-income, uninsured county residents; and at public housing operated by Gainesville Housing Authority. NGHS Senior Leaders were also significantly involved in feedback. A complete listing of interview and focus group participants and the communities and populations served is located in Appendix F of the CHNA. Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. Part V, Section B, Line 11: How NGMC is addressing significant needs identified in the 2016 CHNA is outlined in the CHNA implementation plan. The reason why all of the health needs identified are not being addressed is because NGMC had to take into consideration the staffing, funding and other resources needed to make an impact on identified health needs, and NGMC knew if it did not focus in on 3 - 5 specific health needs, it would not be able to truly make an impact over the next three years. There are also other health and human service organizations working on issues such as child abuse and neglect.The full text of the implementation strategy is posted at the following url : https://www.nghs.com/fullpanel/uploads/files/chna-outcome-measures-with-links-on-title-page.pdf. 25 1 - Imaging Center - Gainesville 1315 Jesse Jewell Pkwy Gainesville GA 30501 imaging / Radiology Center 2 - Braselton NICD 1404 River Place Suite 200 Braselton GA 30517 Cardiology Services 3 - Imaging Center - Braselton 1515 River Place Braselton GA 30517 imaging / Radiology Center 4 - Laurelwood 200 Wisteria Drive gainesville GA 30501 Mental Health Services 5 - Braselton Radiation TherapyPhysics 1515 River Place Braselton GA 30517 Radiation Therapy 6 - Toccoa Cancer Center 1656 Falls Road Toccoa GA 30577 Cancer Services 7 - Rehabilitation Institute 597 South Enota Drive NE gainesville GA 30501 rehabilitation Services 8 - Imaging Center - Dawsonville 108 Prominence Court DawSONVILLE GA 30534 Imaging / Radiology Center 9 - New Horizons Limestone North 600 Beverly Road NE gainesville GA 30501 Long Term Care 10 - Cumming OP Diagnostic Cardiology 900 Sanders Road Cumming GA 30041 Diagnostic Cardiology 11 - New Horizons Lanier Park West 675 White Sulphur Road gainesville GA 30501 Long Term Care 12 - Wound Ostomy ContinenceHyperbaric Ther 675 White Sulphur Road gainesville GA 30501 Wound Healing Center 13 - Healthlink Lab at Riverplace 1515 River Place Braselton GA 30517 Clinical Laboratory 14 - Sleep Lab 1466 Jesse Jewell Pkwy gainesville GA 30501 sleep disorder center 15 - Buford Outpatient Imaging 3425 Buford Drive Suite 100 Buford GA 30519 imaging / Radiology Center 16 - Rehab - Braselton 1515 River Place Braselton GA 30517 rehabilitation Services 17 - GYN Oncology Infusion SErvices 1498 Jesse jewell Parkway Suite C Hall GA 30501 gynecologic oncology 18 - Rehab - Cleveland 640-A Helen Hwy Cleveland GA 30528 rehabilitation Services 19 - Rehab - Dawsonville 5959 Highway 53E Suite 200 DAWSONVILLE GA 30534 rehabilitation Services 20 - Rehab - Friendship (Buford) 4889 Golden Pkwy Suite 150 Buford GA 30518 rehabilitation Services 21 - Rehab - Dahlonega 95 Morrison Moore Pkwy Dahlonega GA 30533 rehabilitation Services 22 - Neurophysiology 1404 River Place Suite 403 Braselton GA 30517 Neurophysiology 23 - Healthlink Lab at Dawsonville 108 Prominence Court DawSONVILLE GA 30534 Clinical Laboratory 24 - Diabetes ED 675 White Sulphur Road gainesville GA 30501 Diabetes Services 25 - Bariatric Services 675 White Sulphur Road gainesville GA 30501 Bariatric Weight Loss Services Part I, Line 3c: Patients who are determined to be indigent, determined by criteria-based methods, such as propensity to pay or health scores, participation in low income government assistance programs, etc. may be presumptively eligible for assistance, providing they cooperate with screening for other financial assistance resources (e.g. Medicaid or disability), as applicable. Part I, Line 6a: The Community Benefit report is published by Northeast Georgia Health System and includes programs for Northeast Georgia Medical Center and its affiliates. The report is available on the organization's website (www.nghs.com) as well as in its Annual Communicare Magazine. Part I, Line 7: Charity Care cost was calculated applying separate cost-to-charge ratios (CCR) to the skilled nursing facility (SNF) and to the remaining patient charges from all other hospital activities. The CCR for the SNF was computed using the Total SNF Operating Expenses divided by the Total SNF Gross Charges. The CCR for the remaining patient charges was computed pursuant to worksheet 2 in the Schedule H instructions.The CCR for the unreimbursed Medicaid services was computed using a CCR computed pursuant to worksheet 2 in the Schedule H instructions. the Other Means Tested Government program cost was derived from internal Trendstar system data which computed cost at the patient detail level. Part I, Line 7g: Subsidized health services were for inpatient rehabilitation, inpatient medicine, Laurelwood (mental health), and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). No costs were attributable to physician clinics. Part I, Ln 7 Col(f): The bad debt expense included on Form 990, Part IX, Line 24, Column A, But subtracted for purposes of calculating the percentage in this column is $83,592,320. Part II, Community Building Activities: It is well documented that many factors combine to affect the health of individuals and communities. Whether people are healthy or not is determined by their circumstances and their environment, according to the World Health Organization. To a large extent, factors such as where we live, the state of our environment, genetics, our income and education level, and our relationships with friends and family all have considerable impacts on health. The determinants of health include the social and economic environment, the physical environment, and a person's individual characteristics and behaviors. Additional factors that relate include education, culture, income and social status, employment and working conditions, social support networks, genetics, health services, and gender. If community members have adequate education, employment, income, a safe environment and supportive social networks, they will have the capacity to make healthier behavior choices and be more likely to have access to health services. Therefore, NGMC as an organization must consider the social determinants of health status as part of preventative care. some community building activities included in Part II include:Project SEARCH:Project SEARCH provides employment and education opportunities for individuals with mild to moderate disabilities. The program is dedicated to workforce development that benefits the individual, community and workplace. In FY17, 13 students, two job coaches and an instructor participated. The students work 20 hours per week in each assigned department. Mentors are assigned in each department. Mentors also attend a monthly meeting to discuss progress and needs of students.Sponsorship of Junior Achievement:NGMC provides financial support to Junior Achievement, an organization that educates youth about free enterprise while encouraging youth to stay in school.Sponsorship of Eagle Ranch:NGMC provides financial support to Eagle Ranch. Eagle Ranch provides a Christ-centered home for 54 boys and girls aged 6-18 who are in need of a stronger family support system. Their goal is the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social and physical development of children and the eventual reunification with their natural families whenever possible. Part III, Line 2: PATIENT ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE ARE REDUCED BY AN ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS. IN EVALUATING THE COLLECTABILITY OF ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NGMC ANALYZES ITS PAST HISTORY AND IDENTIFIES TRENDS FOR EACH OF ITS MAJOR PAYER SOURCES OF REVENUE TO ESTIMATE THE APPROPRIATE ALLOWANCE FOR UNCOLLECTIBLE ACCOUNTS AND PROVISION FOR BAD DEBTS. MANAGEMENT REGULARLY REVIEWS DATA ABOUT THESE MAJOR PAYER SOURCES OF REVENUE IN EVALUATING THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE ALLOWANCE FOR UNCOLLECTIBLE ACCOUNTS.NGMC'S ESTIMATED ALLOWANCE FOR UNCOLLECTIBLE ACCOUNTS WAS APPROXIMATELY 22% OF GROSS PATIENT ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 AND 2016. NGMC'S BAD DEBT WRITE-OFFS WERE APPROXIMATELY $106,999,000 AND $113,602,000 FOR THE YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2017 AND 2016, RESPECTIVELY. Part III, Line 4: Bad debt expense reported on Line 2 represents gross charges written off during the fiscal year net of any recoveries. The organization's Financial Statements contain a footnote regarding Bad Debts on page 13-14. Part III, Line 8: The Medicare costs shown on line 6 were computed using the cost to charge ratio reflected in the organization's Medicare Cost Report. Part III, Line 9b: Patients who are determined to be indigent, determined by criteria-based methods, such as propensity to pay or health scores, participation in low income government assistance programs, etc. may be presumptively eligible for assistance, providing they cooperate with screening for other financial assistance resources (e.g. Medicaid or disability), as applicable. Part VI, Line 2: On a continuous basis, NGMC seeks a variety of data sources and reliable indicators to help identify and work to improve on health inequities in the communities it serves. A listing of the resources is listed below: - As part of the Hall County Family Connection, we review information from Kids Count, which provides key indicators of child well-being.- NGMC is actively involved in Vision 2030 (www.Vision2030.org). This community-wide program is sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and participation is open to everyone in the community. A NGMC employee currently chairs the board of Vision 2030 which focuses on the creation of a culture of community wellness, the support and maintenance of lifelong learning, the building of an economy around emerging life sciences, the encouragement of innovative growth/infrastructure development, and the promotion of cultural integration.- NGMC has partnered with other healthcare providers in the community to form the Healthcare Initiative Consortium. This group has worked with a local university to develop an ongoing database of five data elements that will give the community up-to-date information on the health issues affecting its residents. The five data elements collected are: BMI (height/weight), A1c, blood pressure, cholesterol, LDL, and micro albumen. This gives us information related to the following health issues: obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension. The group has collected data on both adults, as well as pediatric patients.- The Hall County Health Department also shares its Health Risk Snapshots for counties in the service area, which focuses on population trends, youth risk, infant risk, general risk, student substance abuse, top causes of death and WIC nutrition program information.- We also monitor the County Health Rankings published by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (http://www.countyhealthrankings.org/about-project). Part VI, Line 3: Each billing cycle, statement contains contact information for financial assistance information. A plain language summary is provided at day 90. During the 240 days prior to placement with a collection agency, regular phone calls are made that include oral notification of financial assistance policy and how to obtain assistance with the application process. Applications will be accepted up to day 240. With aggregated multiple episode patient accounts, for purposes of measuring 120 and 240 days, the first post-charge billing statement will be used. Part VI, Line 4: Population: From 2010 to 2016, the Health System's Total Service Area (TSA) population grew 1.6% per year on average compared to the State of Georgia at 0.9% and the U.S. at 0.8%. Population for the TSA in 2016 is estimated to be 881,876 representing a total growth rate of 9.7% since 2010, compared to the State of Georgia's growth (5.7%) and the U.S. (4.8%) over the same time period. The TSA's population growth rate is projected to outpace Georgia and the U.S. through at least 2021, thus continuing to drive above average demand for health care services. Source: U.S. Census Bureau; ESRI, Inc.Household Income and Home Values: Median Household Income for the TSA is currently $55,943 compared to the State of Georgia at $50,384. The Median Home Value for the TSA is currently $197,128 compared to the State of Georgia at $161,440. The NGHS Service Area has been consistently higher than the State of Georgia on these metrics. Source: U.S. Census Bureau; ESRI, Inc.Employment: The unemployment rate for the NGHS Total Service Area was 5.2% in 2016 compared with the State of Georgia at 6.3% and the U.S. at 5.9%. For at least the last 10 years, the TSA has consistently experienced an annual unemployment rate below those of Georgia and the U.S. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; ESRI, Inc. Part VI, Line 5: Northeast Georgia Medical Center's Board of Directors is comprised of 15 members and represents the communities served by the organization. Board members provide leadership that supports the organization's mission to improve the health of the community. Physicians at NGMC undergo an extensive credentialing process prior to being granted medical staff privileges. The Medical Center conducts physician manpower studies to determine the number of physicians needed by specialty to meet community need. Information from these studies is used to help guide decisions for physician recruitment. All revenues in excess of expenses are reinvested into healthcare services for the community and no profits accrue to individual investors. The Medical Center's policy on financial assistance (formerly known as the Charity Care Policy) helps ensure access to hospital services to low income patients, i.e. patients with a family income of up to and including/equal to 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines qualify for a 100% charity adjustment, which means that their qualifying services are free. Additionally, patients with a family income of 151-300% qualify for discounted care on a sliding scale. the most that a patient would pay is the Medicare rate. Part VI, Line 6: Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is an affiliate of Northeast Georgia Health System. Other affiliates include Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, The Medical Center Foundation, Northeast Georgia Health Partners, River Place Medical Office Plaza I, The Heart Center, LLC, and NGMC Barrow.The mission of Northeast Georgia Medical Center and all related affiliates is to "improve the health of the community in all we do." As a not-for-profit hospital, NGMC treats patients regardless of their ability to pay and is accountable to the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville for the provision of charitable services to the community. Northeast Georgia Medical Center provides acute and specialty inpatient and outpatient services for a regional community of over 18 counties and receives no local tax support from any of those counties for operations or indigent care.The Medical Center Foundation helps support the mission of Northeast Georgia Health System through fundraising initiatives that improve services offered at NGMC, as well health-focused services in the community.Northeast Georgia Health Partners works to build collaborative relationships between hospitals, physicians and other healthcare providers, employers and the employees they represent through insurance products that help support patient access to healthcare services throughout the region.River Place Medical Office Plaza 1 is a medical office building that is home to an urgent care center, imaging center, outpatient rehabilitation center, full service lab and many private physician practices representing more than 20 medical specialties, improving access to care in the southern region served by Northeast Georgia Health System. Northeast Georgia Physicians Group is a multi-specialty group with more than 350 physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and other clinical staff providing healthcare services at 65 locations throughout northeast Georgia, which further improves the community's access to care for the region of over 18 counties.Northeast Georgia Health System volunteers and Auxilians are people of all ages who give of themselves to make a difference in the lives of others. The Medical Center Auxiliary is committed to involving dedicated volunteers to improve the services of the Health system. Volunteers contribute time and compassionate service assisting with non-medical duties as they provide comfort and support to patients, family members and visitors.The affiliation between Northeast Georgia Medical Center's Heart and Vascular Services and The Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center ensures patients have access to the latest cardiovascular technology and receive top quality care from top physicians. This group has several offices throughout the northeastern part of Georgia and provides all cardiovascular subspecialty care, including general, invasive and interventional cardiology, congestive heart failure, electrophysiology, peripheral vascular interventions and women's cardiovascular health programs.Northeast Georgia Medical Center Barrow (NGMC Barrow), founded in 1951 and originally known as Barrow Regional Medical Center, joined Northeast Georgia Health System in 2017. Since 2009, NGMC Barrow has been recognized by the Georgia Hospital Association as one of only twelve hospitals throughout the state to earn the Chairman's Honor Roll. With 56 beds and a medical staff of more than 200 physicians, NGMC Barrow brings services modeled around the programs of excellence at NGMC Gainesville to Barrow County. These include emergency services, surgery and procedures, intensive care, outpatient surgery, respiratory therapy, wound care and imaging services. Part VI, Line 7, Reports Filed With States GA 1 Good News Community Health Center PO Box 1577 Gainesville GA 30503 582058853 501(c)(3) 584367 Donation for Operating Cost The Medical Center Foundation 743 Spring Street Gainesville GA 30501 581694820 501(c)(3) 1852716 Operating Support 2 Part I, Line 2: The majority of grants are to 501(c)(3) organizations. Board approval is obtained prior to disbursement. 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Tim Scully MD Member, THC Physician 0 357407 0 0 0 18000 0 9275 0 25231 0 409913 0 0 Anthony Herdener VP, CFO, Executive Consultant - NGHS 0 454779 0 150026 0 59198 0 89779 0 21537 0 775319 0 0 Brenda Simpson Chief Nursing Officer - NGMC 0 201698 0 48428 0 7193 0 6591 0 14305 0 278215 0 0 Carol Burrell President & CEO 0 885401 0 275956 0 58299 0 897040 0 11825 0 2128521 0 0 Christopher Paravate Chief Information Officer - NGHS 0 311390 0 58873 0 1630 0 44456 0 33425 0 449774 0 0 Deborah Weber CHRO & VP Human Resources - NGHS 0 277138 0 34433 0 22139 0 41461 0 24375 0 399546 0 0 Elyse Gates VP Revenue Cycle - NGHS 0 188792 0 58737 0 513 0 6199 0 1527 0 255768 0 0 Howard Walpole VP Clinical Effectiveness - NGMC 0 327122 0 19839 0 58743 0 48552 0 12226 0 466482 0 0 John Williamson President - NGMC Braselton 0 323821 0 74146 0 20590 0 66415 0 29370 0 514342 0 30107 Linda Nicholson VP Finance/Controller - NGHS 0 204246 0 62522 0 13209 0 65364 0 30705 0 376046 0 19861 Louis Smith Jr President - NGMC Gainesville 0 541273 0 90750 0 8148 0 72851 0 33128 0 746150 0 0 Melissa Tymchuk Chief of Staff 0 113005 0 17415 0 18272 0 8647 0 21988 0 179327 0 0 Roy Griffin Jr VP Financial Planning & Decision Sup 0 133744 0 40619 0 2949 0 2823 0 18487 0 198622 0 0 Samuel Johnson MD VP Medical Affairs & CMO - NGHS 0 407664 0 101408 0 25524 0 58502 0 29005 0 622103 0 41301 Sonja McLendon VP Chief of Oper. Excellence - NGHS 0 271839 0 127393 0 1423 0 42715 0 32468 0 475838 0 17600 Stephen Kelly Chief Compliance Officer - NGHS 0 134234 0 55695 0 3251 0 4965 0 18670 0 216815 0 0 Tracy Vardeman VP Chief Strategy Executive - NGHS 0 292700 0 69192 0 20336 0 73015 0 30434 0 485677 0 24161 Alan Wills Exec Director - HealtheConnections 0 210269 0 25166 0 450 0 7000 0 20449 0 263334 0 0 Harold Law Jr Chief Technology Officer 0 217899 0 30075 0 972 0 7766 0 18863 0 275575 0 0 Jeffery Stephens Exec Director - Supply Chain Mgmt. 0 193860 0 42386 0 1390 0 4200 0 9482 0 251318 0 0 Randall Miller Manager - Radiation Physics 0 256033 0 0 0 1340 0 36634 0 8815 0 302822 0 0 Richard Mattheus Chief Information Officer - NGPG 0 204632 0 23422 0 690 0 7000 0 30609 0 266353 0 0 James Bailey Former VP-CMIO/CQO, Current NGPG Phy 0 491525 0 0 0 26798 0 9275 0 17866 0 545464 0 0 Randy Smith Former Interim CNO 0 149471 0 38844 0 1837 0 4723 0 3169 0 198044 0 0 Debra Duke Former Director of Diagnostic Imagin 0 169735 0 18842 0 4683 0 31185 0 29922 0 254367 0 0 Part I, Line 4b Part I, Line 4b - Employer Contribution to 457(f) executive retirement benefit plan Anthony M. Herdener $ 54,803 Tracy M. Vardeman $ 34,966 Linda Nicholson $ 25,052 Carol H. Burrell $ 851,311 Samuel O. Johnson $ 49,226 John A. Williamson $ 39,115 Sonja McLendon $ 33,440 Christopher Paravate $ 36,947 Deborah Weber $ 33,109 Howard T. Walpole $ 39,276 Louis Smith, Jr. $ 63,576 Carol H. Burrell, President and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc., began her career at Northeast Georgia Health System in 1999. She was promoted to President and CEO in July 2011. Her first full year as CEO was completed in 2012 which is reflected in her pay and deferred compensation. The contribution to the 457(f) executive retirement plan on her behalf for 2016 ($851,311) was computed based on her age, length of employment, and current position with Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. In addition, beginning in December 2016, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. invested in a jointly-owned split dollar life insurance plan for Ms. Burrell. The asset value as of September 30, 2017 is $3,231,604 and is reported on Form 990, Part X, Line 15, Other Assets. Employer Payment from 457(f) Plan (Including vested earnings on previously reported compensation): Anthony Herdener $ 54,803 Tracy M. Vardeman $ 25,227 John A. Williamson $ 31,436 Linda Nicholson $ 20,738 Samuel O. Johnson $ 43,124 Sonja MClendon $ 18,377 A the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2010A) 586002388 362762KB1 2010-02-18 311522031 Refund principal and interest of series 2007G and series 2008B-H bonds 0 0 0 B the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2010B) 586002388 362762KS4 2010-02-18 246724247 Refund principal and interest of series 2007G and series 2008B-H bonds 0 0 0 C The Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2011A) 586002388 noneavail 2011-08-26 46625000 Refund principal and interest of series 2008A 0 0 0 D the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2014A) 586002388 362762LE4 2014-12-11 227171226 Pay the cost of issuing 2014A, refund portion of 2010B and all of 2012 bonds 0 0 0 A 62685000 306081501 7744640 7297582 57074032 2013 1 0 1 1 B 27175000 249569381 5060433 703 2013 1 0 1 1 C 46625000 46625000 200000 2011 1 0 1 1 D 227214996 783066 88715198 2017 1 0 1 1 A 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 B 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 C 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 D 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 A 1 0 1 JP Morgan 18.000000000000 0 0 0 0 1 B 1 0 1 JP Morgan 18.000000000000 0 0 0 0 1 C 0 1 0 0 1 1 Citibank NA 13.000000000000 0 0 0 0 1 D 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 A 1 B 1 C 1 D 1 A the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2014B) 586002388 362762LB0 2014-12-11 135500000 Pay the cost of issuing 2014B, refund portion of 2010A and all of 2012 bonds 0 0 0 B the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2017A) 586002388 362762LT1 2017-02-09 185966677 Pay the cost of issuing 2017A, advance refund portion of 2010A 0 0 0 C the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2017B) 586002388 362762MM5 2017-02-09 160203063 Pay the cost of issuing 2017B, advance refund portion of 2010B 0 0 0 D the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2017C) 586002388 362762NV4 2017-02-09 75000000 Pay the cost of issuing 2017C, pay or reimburse for capital projects 0 0 0 A 135503243 462303 71006069 2017 1 0 1 1 B 185966974 573363 2017 0 1 1 1 C 160203280 475282 7 2017 0 1 0 1 D 75000115 327853 3 2017 0 0 0 1 A 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 B 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 C 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 D 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 A 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 B 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 C 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 D 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 A 1 B 1 C 1 D 1 A the Hospital Authority of Hall County and the City of Gainesville (2017D) 586002388 2017-02-09 75000000 Pay the cost of issuing 2017D, pay or reimburse for capital projects 0 0 0 A 75171934 217428 42953556 32000950 0 0 0 1 A 0 1 1 1 1 1 0.00200 0.00020 0.00220 0 0 1 A 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 A 1 John Delzell Jr VP Medical Education - NGMC Sign-on Advance pursuant to written promissory note and applicable interest X 20000 19167 0 1 1 Tad Gomez VP Professional Support Services - NGMC Sign-on/relocation pursuant to written promissory note and appl. interest X 29187 19459 0 1 1 38626 Aundrea Stevens Aundrea Stevens is sister to Jack Keener, Board Member. 85446 Aundrea Stevens is employed by Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. 0 Bradee Aderholt Carol Burrell, President & CEO, is a family member of Bradee Aderholt. 40675 Bradee Aderholt is employed by Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. 0 James Nicholson Son of Linda Nicholson, Officer of NGMC 39849 James Nicholson is employed by Northeast Georgia Medical Cener, Inc. 0 Form 990, Part III, Line 4a, Program Service Accomplishments: Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. (NGHS) is a Georgia, not-for-profit corporation that provides healthcare services to the residents of Northeast Georgia primarily through the operation of its affiliates including Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. (NGMC), which is also a Georgia, not-for-profit corporation. NGMC operates a 557-licensed bed inpatient facility in Gainesville and a 100-licensed bed inpatient facility in Braselton. In January 2017, NGHS acquired NGMC Barrow, LLC ("Barrow"), a 56-bed hospital located in Winder, Georgia. Together, NGMC Gainesville, NGMC Braselton and Barrow provide a comprehensive range of acute care and specialty services and serve the area's low-income, uninsured, underinsured and other vulnerable populations. NGMC Gainesville serves as the regional safety net hospital, with approximately half of its patients coming from outside of Hall County. NGMC Gainesville, Braselton and Barrow reinvest all funds in excess of operating expenses into healthcare services for the community. NGHS receives no tax revenue from Hall or other counties served, and services are funded by revenue generated from operations. Located in Georgia's fastest growing region, the 67-year-old hospital, NGMC Gainesville, has expanded considerably in recent years to meet demand, investing a quarter of a billion dollars to update its aging plant and another $200 million-plus to build the NGMC Braselton campus and expand its services to include obstetrics and radiation therapy. NGMC Gainesville & Braselton According to the 2017 Hospital Quality Ratings study by CareChex, NGMC is rated as Georgia's #1 Heart Hospital (for the twelfth year in a row) and Georgia's #1 hospital for Pulmonary Care and Women's Health. NGMC Gainesville is also in the top 9% in the Nation for Cancer Care and in the top 10% in the Nation for Pneumonia Care, Stroke Care, and Surgical Care. NGMC Gainesville and Braselton campuses have been recognized as "Georgia Safe to Sleep Hospitals" by the Georgia Department of Public Health. In 2017, NGMC Gainesville and Braselton provided charity care to Hall County residents at a cost of $19.9 million with another $18.8 million to regional residents outside of Hall County. Unlike a number of not-for-profit hospitals, NGMC receives no local tax revenue from Hall County, or any other counties, to support operations or care provided to indigent residents. NGMC's charity care policy provides financial assistance up to 300 percent of the poverty level - double the amount generally provided by other hospitals across the state. The hospital is a key participant and fiscal sponsor in programs aimed at treating low-income and uninsured patients, including the Good News Clinics, the largest free health care clinic in Georgia, and Health Access Initiative (HAI), a local service that matches financially eligible patients to specialty physicians and provides access to care, among other services. Additionally: - Since 2000, NGMC Gainesville has provided nearly three times the amount of indigent and charity care set forth in requirements by the Georgia Department of Community Health for successful passage of a certificate of need for new services, and, unlike many Georgia not-for-for profit hospitals held to the same requirements, NGMC does not receive tax funding from its local county to help fund indigent care to area residents. - NGMC is the primary hospital for low-income patients in Gainesville-Hall County and throughout the region in counties such as Banks, Rabun, Union and White, where many key medical specialties are not available. - NGMC Gainesville is number 5 in top hospitals for net uncompensated care ($50.8 M) provided in Georgia based on state fiscal year (July 1 - June 30) 2017 Indigent Care Trust Fund (ICTF) Total Hospital Specific diproportionate share hospital (DSH) Limits; many of the hospitals on the list received local tax dollars while NGMC did not. NGMC serves as a financial engine for the local economy. In 2016 (latest numbers available), NGMC Gainesville and Braselton campuses surpassed the $1.75 billion mark in local and state economic impact, according to a report by the Georgia Hospital Association which applied an economic multiplier to the hospital's direct expenditures to account for the "ripple" effect the hospital's spending has on other sectors of the local and state economies. The report found that through its economic impact, NGMC sustained more than 18,000 full-time jobs throughout the region and the state. Under IRS law, a tax-exempt organization, classified as a 501(c)(3) charity, is required to: have a mission that will benefit its community; reinvest all surplus funds in the organization in a way that benefits the community; compensate executives, contractors and other employees in accordance with fair market value; remain accountable to the community; refrain from participating in political campaigns for or against candidates and/or lobby as a substantial part of its activities; and remain financially accountable to the community by not allowing any portion of its net earnings to benefit any private shareholder or individual. As a not-for-profit hospital, NGMC carries additional responsibilities, as established by the IRS in 1965: Operate a full-time emergency room (ER) that is available to all people, regardless of their ability to pay; - NGMC Gainesville operates the 2nd busiest ER in Georgia (according to the 2016 Annual Hospital Questionnaire Survey). In FY17, 20% of all NGMC Gainesville and Braselton ER visits were made by self-pay patients. Provide non-emergency services to anyone able to pay and medically necessary services to anyone in the NGHS service area not able to pay; - Northeast Georgia Health System provides high quality, advanced specialty and primary healthcare services to the Northeast Georgia community, serving 1 million people in more than 18 counties. In FY17, NGMC's payor mix at Gainesville and Braselton was 60% Medicare/Medicaid, 32% commercial insurance and 8% self-pay. Participate in Medicaid and Medicare; - 60% of patients served by NGMC Gainesville and Braselton in FY17 were Medicaid and Medicare patients. Create a governing board that is representative of the community it serves; - More than 80 community members are actively involved in governance through Northeast Georgia Health System, NGMC and other subsidiary boards and committees. Allow medical staff privileges to any professional who is qualified and applies; - NGMC has a medical staff of more than 760 physicians representing numerous advanced specialties such as gynecologic oncology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery, critical care medicine, surgical trauma, neonatology, perinatology and telemedicine. Reinvest surplus funds in operations. - As not-for-profit organizations, the revenue generated by NGMC and its parent organization, Northeast Georgia Health System, above operating expenses is reinvested into the community. Examples include construction of new medical facilities, such as the hospital in Braselton offering 24/7 emergency room services not previously available to local residents; investments in advanced medical technology such as robotic surgical systems and state of the art radiation therapy equipment; and development of the only Level 2 Trauma Center in Northeast Georgia. NGMC participates in the Indigent Care Trust Fund (ICTF), a program established in 1990, which expands Medicaid eligibility and services, supports rural health care facilities that serve the medically indigent and funds primary health care programs for medically indigent Georgians. Georgia's Disproportionate Share Hospital (DSH) program is funded through the ICTF and assists hospitals and other health providers that care for high proportions of Medicaid, uninsured and/or low-income patients. In 2017, NGMC received $6.3 million in net funds allocated through the Medicaid DSH (ICTF) program to partially offset a financial loss of $50.8 million in cost the Medical Center incurred treating uninsured and Medicaid patients. In addition, NGMC received $3.5 million in net funds allocated through the Medicaid upper payment limit (UPL) program to adjust Medicaid payments upward to match Medicare payment levels. NGMC Gainesville and Braselton value cooperative efforts with community organizations and other healthcare providers to improve the health status of area residents. The organizations demonstrate this through many partnerships ranging from serving as lead agency of Safe Kids Gainesville/Hall County, to partnering with other organizations such as Good News Clinics and the Public Health Department to reach at-risk populations in need of health care. Form 990, Part III, Line 4a In FY17, NGMC Gainesville and Braselton provided over $6.7 million in community benefit programs/outreach. Health education was provided through free community lectures, screenings, various support groups and the semi-annual health magazine, Communicare. NGMC also offered many community education seminars on topics ranging from health and nutrition to women's health education and more, as well as seminars for health professionals in the community, region and state. In addition, NGMC provided support to other local non-profit organizations that serve the community. What Drives NGMC's Community Health Improvement Activities? NGMC, with input from the community, completed a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) in 2016. The assessment focused mainly on the needs of the community's most vulnerable populations, particularly those with low-incomes who are uninsured. Input from the community was gathered through focus groups and interviews. Focus group participants and interviewees included community leaders, public health experts and those representing the needs of minority, underserved and indigent populations. Input was also received from an internal NGMC board level workgroup and senior leadership who validated, refined and expanded the list of health needs NGMC would address. The study culminated in the identification of the following 5 priority health needs across the region: Septicemia, Access to Care, Diabetes, Cancer and Injury. The 5 health priorities fit hand-in-glove with our strategic direction as an organization. Working together, from senior management to board level, to the bedside and community partners, NGMC has implemented a plan to improve the outcomes of these health needs over a 3 year period. The actions and outcomes of this plan are being tracked to monitor improvements and identify opportunities with each priority health need. Go to https://www.nghs.com/community-benefit-resources for updates and full reports. The following contains highlights of community benefit activities provided by NGMC in FY17, often partnering with other organizations and individuals in the community: Partnering to Reach the Uninsured: NGMC works cooperatively with other area healthcare providers to care for area residents, particularly the indigent population. Partners include, but are not limited to, NGMC, the Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Primary Care Clinic at Hall County Health Department, the Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic, The Longstreet Clinic, Medlink (federally qualified health center), area physicians and indigent clinics such as Good News Clinics in Gainesville and Good Shepherd Clinic of Dawson County. Good News Clinics (GNC): NGMC provides funding to GNC (the largest free clinic in Georgia) that helps provide medications, medical supplies and other support. Founded in 1992, GNC is a Christian ministry that provides medical and dental care to the indigent and uninsured population at no charge. Forty-six physicians, 9 mid-level providers and 43 dentists volunteer to treat patients at GNC. In addition, 332 specialist physicians volunteer to treat patients in their offices through referrals from GNC, NGPG Primary Care Clinic at the Hall County Health Department and physicians in Hall County. In FY17, nearly $500,000 was donated to help GNC provide care to indigent patients who were at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines and did not qualify for other programs. To provide integration between GNC, NGHS, and other providers in the community, NGMC through its foundation is working to help support the implementation of a high-level electronic medical record system to improve coordination of care and outcomes for this vulnerable patient population. Eva Johnson, NGMC Nurse Practitioner and Heart Failure Disease Manager, helped establish and now runs the Heart Failure Clinic at GNC. Eva was awarded the Sam Poole Community Volunteer of the Year Award for her tireless work with the clinic. This project has been extremely successful, holding the 30-day hospital readmissions to one patient in 2017. NGPG Primary Care Clinic at the Hall County Health Department: NGMC funds and staffs a primary care clinic at the Hall County Health Department to improve access to primary healthcare services for low-income people in our community. In FY17, NGMC contributed $1,070,096 to this clinic. Prenatal Care Program at the Health Department: NGMC, The Longstreet Clinic, and Hall County Health Department partner to improve birth outcomes by increasing early prenatal care for low-income, uninsured and under-insured pregnant women via the Health Department's primary care clinic. Yearly cost to NGMC is approximately $200,000. Indigent Patient Fund: At NGMC, financial assistance is provided for indigent patients to obtain urgently needed discharge medications and transportation. Individuals eligible for these funds are patients whose needs cannot be met through primary insurance, their own personal funds, government programs or other charitable services. This helps to ensure medication compliance and maximize conditions for recovery and recuperation. The Medical Center Foundation provides funding for this. Charity Care: NGMC's charity care policy removes barriers for low-income populations within our service area beginning with free, medically necessary care for patients whose gross family income is 0 to 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) adjusted for family size. Further, patients from our service area, whose FPL is from 151 to 300%, may qualify for an adjustment equivalent to the hospital's Medicare reimbursement rate plus an additional 40% discount to the Medicare reimbursement rate. Total Charity Care Cost for FY17: $19.9 million for Hall County with another $18.8 million for regional residents outside of Hall County. NGMC Volunteers: In FY17, 748 NGMC volunteers contributed 68,961 volunteer hours, equivalent to 41 full time employees and a value of over $1.6 million to the organization. While these figures are not included in the quantitative portion of the community benefit report, they show the depth of support the community gives NGMC. 130 teens participated in the Teen Volunteer Program in 2017. The teens represented 28 different schools within the area. Encouraging Medical Volunteering: NGMC provides information at physician orientation to encourage physicians to step up to volunteer opportunities through local free clinics (GNC in Gainesville and Helping Hand Clinic in Cleveland) as well as Health Access. NGPG also encourages physicians to give of their time volunteering at these locations. Through various physician leadership councils, NGMC's Cancer Services Program encourages its physicians to actively participate in community outreach, including educational seminars, screenings, cancer prevention opportunities and other outreach with the purpose of improving patient care, quality, access and programmatic excellence of cancer services within the community. Financial Navigators: NGMC has financial assistance counselors who help patients become insured, be it through Medicaid, PeachCare or other programs. This team focuses on being advocates for uninsured and under-insured patients, aiding them in finding viable means to access care. They find the best solutions for helping patients apply for Medicaid or disability, accessing healthcare exchanges or processing charity applications when appropriate. Patient Navigators: NGMC also has a cancer patient navigation program. This program provides cancer patients with guidance throughout their cancer journey, and they are seen as a "living resource directory" for patients. Clinical Research: In FY17, all ongoing clinical trial research programs at NGHS were reorganized under the oversight of the new NGMC Office of Research. NGMC's Oncology Research program, through the Georgia NCORP (National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program), received recognition as a high performing research site member. Georgia NCORP provides Georgians with access to state-of-the-art cancer prevention, screening, control, treatment and post treatment trials in 41 locations throughout the state. NGMC was recognized for results in meeting or exceeding our goals for providing patients access to cancer research trials. NGMC's Cardiology Research program was recognized by major sponsors as a top enrolling site through participation in pharmaceutical and device clinical trials in cardiology with outcomes that have the potential to improve the standard of care for patients throughout the U.S. and around the world. Form 990, Part III, Line 4a Partnering in the Community Partnership for a Drug Free Hall (DFH): As part of the behavioral health issues being addressed in Hall County, much progress has been achieved in FY17 with regard to the opioid epidemic affecting so many counties across the region and our nation. Hall County's response to this epidemic is the collaborative Partnership for a Drug Free Hall. Modeled after a partnership formed in Gwinnett County led by Senator Renee Unterman, she, along with Deb Bailey, Executive Director of Governmental Affairs at NGHS, Dallas Gay, former NGHS Board Member, and Judy Brownell, Director of Prevention at Center Point, pulled together a diverse group of agencies in Hall County to form this partnership. Other NGHS representatives from Community Health Improvement and Laurelwood also actively serve on this committee. DFH is dedicated to providing the people of Hall County with information, resources and actions to address drug abuse. Information and resources can be found at http://drugfreehall.org. The following activities have come from this collaboration and are available to the community: - Not My Family, a series of forums directed at families and individuals was launched to provide awareness, education and local resources. In September 2017, the first forum was held in Gainesville at the Brenau Downtown Center where over 450 people attended. Attendees ranged from professionals to students to families and friends, and this series continues in 2018. - Parent Support Group for parents/guardians who have lost a child due to overdose or drug-related injuries, as well as parents with a child who is struggling with addiction is available to the community. - 3 Steps to Save A Life, a training program designed to equip the general public with lifesaving information to prevent overdose deaths, was launched. In 2018, this tool will be available in a free App, (currently available at www.oorescue.com). - Engagement in local schools and university systems such as with the University of North Georgia was expanded. In addition to this, DFH in collaboration with the Hall County Family Connection Network (HCFCN), planned a 2018 Youth Empowerment Summit to educate up to 100 sixth graders about the dangers of alcohol and drugs, as well as, leadership skills and refusal strategies. Through this summit, a Youth Advisory Council will be developed. - S.T.A.R.T. (Students Together Achieving Responsibility & Tolerance), a Youth Advisory Council, will be an advisory group of youth leaders who work in partnership with their peers, local leaders and community organizations in Hall County. As part of this council, members will learn about current issues facing youth, develop and strengthen leadership skills, provide input about current issues facing youth, interact with local community leaders, serve as youth advocates and ambassadors for Hall County, participating in team building activities, volunteer projects and community service. - NGMC's emergency departments have been chosen by the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse to participate in a two-year, grant-funded pilot project to help patients who experience an opioid-related overdose. The ED-CARES program connects people who have been admitted to emergency rooms for an opioid-related overdose with trained peer recovery coaches. This peer support plays an important role in helping people avoid another overdose and encouraging them to seek treatment. The program was created in response to the increasing number of overdose fatalities and seeks to curtail that trend by better connecting people at high-risk with community support and services. NGMC is the only hospital system in Georgia to provide this support, which is provided in all three Emergency Departments (at Gainesville, Braselton and Barrow). - Georgia continues to benefit from Project DAN (Deaths Avoided by Naloxone), an effort to equip first responders with the drug naloxone/Narcan which can quickly reverse overdoses from opioids or heroin. The Medical Center Foundation's 2015 Medical Center Open benefited the Medical Association of Georgia Foundation's 'Think About It' Campaign that funded Project DAN. Until recently, naloxone was only available by prescription, but thanks to a standing order signed by Governor Deal on December 14, 2016, the Jeffrey Dallas Gay Act, naloxone can now be dispensed over-the-counter by pharmacists across Georgia, making it accessible to parents and other lay citizens who may be the firsthand witnesses to overdoses. Through Project DAN, Northeast Georgia Health System has trained more than 5,000 people in 98 agencies across 53 counties on the use of naloxone. Although, there is no official reporting process to capture all lives saved, we do know that 27 lives have been saved in Hall County and over 80 in our service area with naloxone kits provided to first responders through Project DAN. - In FY17, the Georgia Composite Medical Board proposed required physician education addressing controlled substance prescribing guidelines. NGMC has for many years participated in seeking solutions to the tremendous opioid epidemic in our community and our state. In an effort to better educate physicians on this alarming health crisis, the Georgia Composite Medical Board met and proposed amendments to the Georgia Composite Medical Board Rules which add continuing education requirements for physicians to address controlled substance prescribing guidelines and recognizing signs of abuse or misuse. The updated ruling was set to take effect January 1, 2018. Details can be found at the Medical Association of Georgia's website at www.mag.org. NGMC is actively involved in Vision 2030 (www.Vision2030.org). This community-wide program is sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and participation is open to everyone in the community. An NGMC employee currently serves on the board of Vision 2030 which focuses on the creation of a culture of community wellness, the support and maintenance of lifelong learning, the building of an economy around emerging life sciences, the encouragement of innovative growth/infrastructure development and the promotion of cultural integration. NGMC is also an active partner on other chamber committees such as the Healthcare Committee and the Health Initiative Consortium. NGMC is also a partner in HALLmark, which is a community investment plan that addresses economic development, education, government and community development through partnership. Two NGMC representatives serve on the Hall County Family Connection Network (HCFCN). HCFCN adopted Teen Pregnancy Prevention and community-wide resource mapping in partnership with United Way as its two focus areas in FY17. HCFCN is a collaborative which serves as the local decision-making body, bringing community partners together to develop, implement and evaluate plans that address the serious challenges facing the children and families in our county, in addition to increasing awareness and knowledge of existing programs and services available to families and children in Hall County. Its vision is that every child has the opportunity to reach his or her full potential for good health, be secure from abuse and neglect and become a literate, productive, economically self-sufficient member of our community. A Member of NGMC's bariatric service line serves on Hall County School System's Wellness Council. The Medical Center Foundation (MCF) Raises Funds to Benefit the Community. The MCF is the fundraising arm of NGMC and raises funds to improve the health of the community. The Foundation's operating expenses are supported by NGMC so that donated funds can be used to support NGMC projects and community health improvement initiatives. The following are items of interest to note: - Since 1997, approximately $3.8 million has been raised for community health improvement projects through The Medical Center Open, a community golf tournament. - The 2016 Medical Center Open Golf Tournament, which was held in FY17, raised $282,454 to fund three homes and a neighborhood playground for Habitat for Humanity of Hall County, located in its signature subdivision, Copper Glen. Over 100 community volunteers, 225 sponsors and 216 players made the tournament a success! NGMC senior leadership and employees helped construct the homes through three NGMC Build Days that benefitted three deserving families. - Through the employee giving club known as W.A.T.C.H. (We Are Targeting Community Healthcare), members have donated more than $8.8 million to support the Healthy Journey Campaign since the program's inception in 1999. Form 990, Part III, Line 4a Investing in Our Youth Safe Kids Coalition Works to Keep Kids Safe: The Gainesville-Hall County Safe Kids Coalition, led by NGMC, is part of Safe Kids Worldwide, the first and only national organization dedicated solely to the prevention of unintentional childhood injury, which is the nation's number one killer of children ages 14 and under. This program provides affordable safety equipment such as car seats, bike helmets, and life jackets to area children in need. Working with a coalition made up of law enforcement, area schools, community volunteers and others, Safe Kids provides educational materials and programs that teach children and their parents how to avoid accidents and injuries. Safe Kids continued the work of injury prevention for families in the Hall County community in 2017 thanks to the support of MCF and The Medical Center Auxiliary proceeds from Marketplace (an annual fundraising event of The Medical Center Auxiliary, which benefits healthcare services of NGMC). In FY17, members of the Gainesville-Hall County Safe Kids Coalition provided over 76 programs and events that reached an estimated 9,643 children and their family members, teachers and caregivers. Through these programs, over 4,201 safety devices were distributed to families in need of them. Education and Support for Seniors Getting Older and Better Workshops: Over 220 people participated in the Getting Older and Better Workshops held in September in Gainesville and Braselton. This event was sponsored by The Medical Center Auxiliary, provided by NGMC and featured the topic "Let's Talk About Stroke: Signs, Treatment, and Lowering your Risk." Featured speakers were Antoine Leflore, MD., Emergency Medicine Physician from Northeast Georgia Health System, Shaena Blevins, MD., Stroke Medical Director from Northeast Georgia Medical Center and NGPG Neurology, Jennifer Sweigart, Inpatient Neurology Physician Assistant from Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Neurology and Heather Wilsey, Physical Therapist and Outpatient Supervisor from The Rehabilitation Institute of Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Support of Community Efforts to Improve Health NGMC employees are very active in the community, volunteering at GNC, in their churches on mission trips and for community agencies such as the Humane Society and Habitat for Humanity. When it comes to supporting MCF's employee giving club, W.A.T.C.H., over 3,500 employees donated about $745,000 in 2017. American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, and March of Dimes: NGMC employees turned out in full force for community events such as the American Heart Walk, March for Babies and Relay for Life, averaging participation of 300 employees per event. Blood Drives: In FY17, NGMC hosted 22 drives, resulting in 484 donors and over 404 pints of blood. United Way Pacesetter & More: NGMC has partnered with United Way to engage employees and leaders in the community. NGHS employees contributed $76,415 to United Way as a Pacesetter Company. Three NGMC employees serve on the United Way Board; Dr. Sam Johnson, Chief Medical Officer at NGHS, serves as Chairman on One Hall United Against Poverty. In an effort to improve school readiness and literacy for our community's children, NGMC has partnered with the United Way of Hall County's Read Learn Succeed initiative to produce a children's book. Printed in English and Spanish, "Welcome to the World," provides education about the importance of reading to children every day, for at least 15 minutes, starting at birth. The book also includes keepsake pages for baby's first footprints and handprints. Funded by The Medical Center Auxiliary, this book is given to all babies born at NGMC Gainesville and NGMC Braselton. Training and Education for Healthcare Professionals: NGMC continues to serve as a "pipeline" to help get more qualified people interested in healthcare positions and help provide training and education to students. This training and education is done through a variety of avenues from job shadowing to the nurse extern program and pharmacy residency program, as well as significant support to Foothills Area Health Education Centers. Graduate Medical Education (GME): Northeast Georgia Medical Center's GME program is designed to train residents to be leaders in the medical field as well as in the community. Medical students will receive hands-on training in one of six medical specialties: internal medicine, family medicine, general surgery, OB/GYN, psychiatry and emergency medicine. NGMC expects this program to grow to 170 residents by 2024, which would make this program one of the largest in the state, and expects its first students in 2019. Dr. Antonio Rios, Chief Physician Executive for NGPG, was elected Chairman of The Georgia Board for Physician Workforce. On this board, Dr. Rios will be committed to furthering the board's mission to identify the physician workforce needs of Georgia communities and to meet those needs through the support and development of medical education programs. Dr. Rios also serves on the Good News Clinics and District 2 Public Health boards. Northeast Georgia STEMI (S-T Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction) Summit: Hosted each year by NGMC, the Northeast Georgia STEMI Summit brings together paramedics, EMS staff, and doctors from across the state. They meet to discuss the state of the Northeast Georgia Regional STEMI System, a collaborative effort providing critical care and rapid response in 18 counties across the region to people suffering a severe heart attack known as STEMI. As this year's summit was in progress, the Georgia House of Representatives voted in favor of adopting Senate Bill 102, which provides for the establishment of emergency cardiac centers and the establishment of the Office of Cardiac Care within the Georgia Department of Public health. The bill was spearheaded by Jeffrey Marshall, MD (The Heart Center of NGMC) and Deb Bailey, Executive Director of Governmental Affairs at Northeast Georgia Health System. In addition to championing Senate Bill 102, Deb has made tremendous contributions to our state as a whole, serving on the Georgia Committee on Public Health, Georgia Board of Nursing and the Georgia Hospital Medicaid Financial Program Advisory Committee. NGMC Provides Health Information & Support: The Fraser Resource Center and Health Sciences Library & Braselton Resource Center at NGHS serve the health information needs of the community. Consumers, patients and their family members have access to credible resources relating to medical symptoms, conditions and treatments both at the library and also via links on NGMC's website (www.nghs.com/library). The Resource Center encourages visitors to make healthy choices and become active, informed partners in their health care. In keeping with guidelines for community benefit reporting, NGMC did not include quantitative data on the following programs/projects, but they do meet health needs in the community identified via the 2016 (the most recent) Community Health Needs Assessment and warrant inclusion in this summary: NGMC Employees Lead the Way: Carol Burrell, NGHS President and CEO, was named Georgia's Most Respected Business Leader for 2017 by Georgia Trend magazine. At the annual Masters in the Art of Nursing: Healers Among Us event, Deb Bailey, Executive Director of Governmental Affairs at NGHS, and Mary Martin, Chief Nursing Informatics Officer at NGHS, were recognized along with two other nurses in the community for their dedication and excellence. SANE program: NGMC provides a SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) program which provides nurses special training in rape crisis, trial time with a District Attorney and training with law enforcement and a pediatrician's office. NGMC employs nurses who have specialized training to complete the Sexual Assault Nurse Exam and provide specialized care for patients who are victims of sexual assault. This program is not a requirement of hospitals and is also not provided at all hospitals throughout the state. NGMC Barrow NGMC Barrow provided charity care to Barrow County residents at a cost of $1.2 million in 2017 with another $308 thousand provided to regional residents outside Barrow County. NGMC Barrow receives no local tax revenue from any of the counties it serves to support operations or care provided to indigent residents, unlike a number of not-for-profit hospitals. The organization's charity care policy provides financial assistance up to 300% of the poverty level, double the amount generally provided by other hospitals across the state. Form 990, Part III, Line 4a In 2017, NGMC expanded its access in cardiac and cancer care to NGMC Barrow. NGHS spent nearly $2.5 million on new equipment for NGMC Barrow, such as a new CT scanner and two new hyperbaric oxygen treatment chambers in the Wound Care Center. NGMC serves as a financial engine for the local economy. In 2016 (latest numbers available), NGMC Barrow had $73.3 million in local and state economic impact, according to a report by the Georgia Hospital Association, which applied an economic multiplier to the hospital's direct expenditures to account for the "ripple" effect the hospital's spending has on other sectors of the local and state economies. The report found that through its economic impact, NGMC Barrow sustained more than 500 full-time jobs throughout the region and the state. Under IRS law, a tax-exempt organization, classified as a 501(c)(3) charity, is required to: have a mission that will benefit its community; reinvest all surplus funds in the organization in a way that benefits the community; compensate executives, contractors and other employees in accordance with fair market value; remain accountable to the community; refrain from participating in political campaigns for or against candidates and/or lobby as a substantial part of its activities; and, remain financially accountable to the community by not allowing any portion of its net earnings to benefit any private shareholder or individual. As a not-for-profit hospital, NGMC Barrow carries additional responsibilities, as established by the IRS in 1965: Operate a full-time emergency room that is available to all people, regardless of their ability to pay; - NGMC Barrow operates the 77th busiest ER in Georgia (according to the 2016 Annual Hospital Questionnaire Survey). In FY17, 30% of all NGMC Barrow emergency room visits were made by self-pay patients. Provide non-emergency services to anyone able to pay and medically necessary services to anyone in the NGHS service area not able to pay; - Northeast Georgia Health System provides high quality, advanced specialty and primary healthcare services to the Northeast Georgia community, serving 1 million people in more than 18 counties. In FY17, NGMC Barrow's payor mix was 55% for Medicare/ Medicaid, 24% for commercial insurance and 21% for self-pay. Participate in Medicaid and Medicare; - 55% of patients served by NGMC Barrow were Medicaid and Medicare patients. Create a governing board that is representative of the community it serves; - More than 80 community members are actively involved in governance through Northeast Georgia Health System, NGMC and other subsidiary boards and committees. Allow medical staff privileges to any professional who is qualified and applies; - NGMC Barrow has a medical staff of 280 physicians representing numerous advanced specialties such as emergency services, surgery and procedures, intensive care, outpatient surgery, respiratory therapy, wound care, imaging services and telemedicine. Reinvest surplus funds in operations; - As not-for-profit organizations, the revenue generated by NGMC and its parent organization, Northeast Georgia Health System, above operating expenses is reinvested into the community. In 2017, NGMC expanded its access in cardiac and cancer care to NGMC Barrow. NGHS spent nearly $2.5 million on new equipment for NGMC Barrow, such as a new CT scanner and two new hyperbaric oxygen treatment chambers in the Wound Care Center. NGMC Barrow values cooperative efforts with community organizations and other healthcare providers to improve the health status of area residents. The organization demonstrates this through community partnerships ranging from free health screenings at local health fairs to providing a meeting space for other non-profit organizations, such as United Way and Rotary Club of Winder. In FY17, NGMC Barrow provided over $89,000 in community benefit programs/outreach. NGMC Barrow offered many community education seminars on topics ranging from healthy cooking demos to heart health and more. In addition, NGMC Barrow provided support to other local non-profit organizations that serve the community. What Drives NGMC Barrow's Community Health Improvement Activities? NGMC, with input from the community, completed a region-wide Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) in 2016 that included Barrow County and surrounding counties (before NGMC Barrow was acquired by Northeast Georgia Health System). Through the CHNA, cancer was identified as a health priority for Barrow County. According to the National Cancer Institute 2008-2012, Barrow County has a lung cancer indicator value of 87.9, well above its neighbor Gwinnett County's value of 54.1 and the state benchmark of 68.8. Additionally, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health's Georgia Tobacco Use Surveillance Report, in 2015, approximately 4% of middle school students and 53,000 or 13% of high school students in Georgia smoke cigarettes. NGMC is partnering with Barrow County Schools to implement "Tar Wars", a tobacco-free education program for fourth and fifth grade students developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians to teach kids about the dangers of tobacco use, the cost associated with using tobacco products, and the advertising techniques used by the tobacco industry to market their products to youth. Go to https://www.nghs.com/community-benefit-resources for updates and full reports. The following contains highlights of community benefit activities provided by NGMC Barrow in FY17: Charity Care: Like NGMC Gainesville and Braselton, NGMC Barrow's charity care policy removes barriers for low-income populations within our service area beginning with free, medically necessary care for patients whose gross family income is 0 to 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) adjusted for family size. Further, patients from our service area, whose FPL is from 151 to 300%, may qualify for an adjustment equivalent to the hospital's Medicare reimbursement rate plus an additional 40% discount to the Medicare reimbursement rate. Total Charity Care Cost for NGMC Barrow in FY17: $1.2 million with another $308 thousand provided to regional residents outside Barrow County. Encouraging Medical Volunteering: Through various physician leadership councils, NGMC Barrow's Cancer Services Program encourages its physicians to actively participate in community outreach, including educational seminars, screenings, cancer prevention opportunities and other outreach with the purpose of improving patient care, quality, access and programmatic excellence of cancer services within the community. Financial Navigators: NGMC Barrow has financial assistance counselors who help patients become insured, be it through Medicaid, PeachCare or other programs. This team focuses on being advocates for uninsured and under-insured patients, aiding them in finding viable means to access care. They find the best solutions for helping patients apply for Medicaid or disability, accessing healthcare exchanges or processing charity applications when appropriate. Partnering in the Community: NGMC Barrow Volunteers: In FY17, 24 NGMC volunteers contributed 4,828 volunteer hours, equivalent to almost 3 full time employees and a value of over $116,548 to the organization. While these figures are not included in the quantitative portion of the community benefit report, they show the depth of support the community gives NGMC Barrow. Like NGMC Gainesville and Braselton, NGMC Barrow's emergency department participates in the ED-CARES program, which connects people who have been admitted to emergency rooms for an opioid-related overdose with trained peer recovery coaches. Rotary Club of Winder Support: Sunita Singh, public relations manager for Barrow, serves as President of the Rotary Club of Winder, which benefits various community programs such as Peace Place, The Tree House Inc., United Way and Boy Scouts of America, just to name a few. Support of Community Efforts to Improve Health American Cancer Society (ACS): NGMC Barrow was the Platinum Sponsor for the ACS Relay for Life in Barrow County. The walk benefits cancer research and community education. NGMC employees turned out in full force for Relay for Life, with over 360 walkers throughout the region. Northeast Georgia Food Bank Support: NGMC Barrow provided a donation to the Northeast Georgia Food Bank's Food 2 Kids program in Barrow County. This program was developed to alleviate hunger on nights and weekends when other food is not available for children in need. Form 990, Part III, Line 4a Boys & Girls Club: NGMC Barrow gave a donation to the Boys & Girls Club which provides programs that empower youth to excel in school, become good citizens and lead healthy, productive lives. Health Screenings: NGMC Barrow provided health education and screenings at local health fairs, such as free blood pressure checks and diabetes education. Community Health Education: NGMC Barrow offers a variety of free health education classes from Arthritis to healthy cooking demonstrations. The Diabetes Education team at NGMC developed partnerships with community professionals, including a dietitian at NGMC Barrow, in order to expand the access to the Prevent T2 Diabetes program, a proven program to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. This team is currently working to provide classes in NGMC Barrow. Organization Overview Northeast Georgia Health System is a not-for-profit community health system dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of the people of Northeast Georgia. Northeast Georgia Medical Center has three hospital campuses (NGMC Gainesville, NGMC Braselton and NGMC Barrow) with a total of 713 beds and more than 700 medical staff members representing more than 50 specialties. The Health System offers a full range of healthcare services through NGMC such as gynecologic oncology, electrophysiology, cardiac surgery, critical care medicine, surgical trauma, neonatology and perinatology. CareChex recognizes NGMC as Georgia's #1 hospital for heart care, women's care and pulmonary care. NGMC also provides long term care through two centers in Gainesville and mental health and substance abuse treatment through a freestanding inpatient center. Northeast Georgia Physicians Group brings together more than 350 talented physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, midwives and other clinical staff at more than 65 locations across North Georgia. As the state's sixth-largest physician group, it always has a practice nearby to offer expert care in more than 25 specialties. Led by volunteer boards made up of community leaders, the Health System serves 1 million people in more than 18 counties across Northeast Georgia. As a not-for-profit health system, all revenue generated above operating expenses is returned to the community through improved services and innovative programs. Northeast Georgia Medical Center's Charity Care Policy supports the provision of care for indigent patients, regardless of their ability to pay. Special Notes NGMC uses the precepts outlined in "A Guide for Planning and Reporting Community Benefit," provided by the Catholic Health Association of The United States and Veteran's Health Administration, Inc. The guide's purpose is to help not-for-profit, mission-driven healthcare organizations develop, enhance and report on their community benefit programs. Community Benefit Definition: Program or activity must address a demonstrated community need and seek to address at least one of the following community benefit objectives: - improve access - enhance population health - advance generalizable knowledge - relieve government burden to improve health The program or activity must: - primarily benefit the community rather than the organization - result in measurable expense to the organization If the program or activity is provided primarily for marketing purposes, standard practice, expected of all hospitals (such as activities required for accreditation, licensure, or to participate in Medicare) or is primarily for employees (not including interns, residents and fellows) and/or affiliated physicians, it is not community benefit. For more information, contact Christy Moore, Manager, Community Health Improvement, at (770) 219-8097 or go to www.nghs.com. Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 6 Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. is the sole member of Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Inc. Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 7a The Board of Directors of Northeast Georgia Medical Center is appointed by the Board of Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. - a related 501(c)(3) organization. Form 990, Part VI, Section A, line 7b The Board of Directors of Northeast Georgia Medical Center is appointed by the Board of Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. - a related 501(c)(3) organization. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 11b Information for the Form 990 was provided to an independent certified public accountant for preparation of the return. After the return was prepared, it was reviewed by senior financial management. The 990 is made available to members of the board prior to filing. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 12c Board members are required to complete a conflict of interest questionnaire annually. Employees attest to their understanding and reporting/disclosure requirements at hire and annually. Compliance is monitored continuously throughout the year by the board. Form 990, Part VI, Section B, line 15 The compensation committee of the Northeast Georgia Health System Board (NGHS Board) has developed and installed compensation policies and procedures that seek to further the purpose of NGHS and affiliates and the importance of these policies to attract and retain key employees. The compensation committee is composed of voting directors who are not employees of NGHS. All decisions of the compensation committee are reviewed and ratified by the NGHS Board. The committee's methodology and approach incorporates both qualitative and quantitative considerations, which are reflected in the committee's determinations concerning key employee compensation and the specific components thereof. The compensation decisions of the committee are described below as to each of the three categories. Base Salary Annual base salaries are set at market competitive levels with healthcare systems of a similar size and complexity from throughout the country. Specifically, the committee considers peer group comparisons from survey data for other health systems, recommendations from an independent compensation consultant, recommendations on ranges and placement from the CEO, and individual performance assessments for each position. In each instance the committee members reach a consensus based on the combination of available information, and the committee sets a base salary level for each key employee. Performance Based Variable Compensation Numerous performance goals are quantitative in nature, resulting in a performance based variable compensation component that is weighted toward attaining NGHS Board-approved goals and objectives. Annual goals and objectives are established through a formal planning process involving board and community members. The board approves these goals and objectives at the beginning of each year. Officers and key employees receive cash awards as a formula driven percentage of base salary levels based on achievement and predetermined individual objectives. Benefits and Retention Programs Benefit categories and amounts are determined by a comparison process similar to determining base salaries with positions and organizations similar to NGHS. Included in benefits are retirement programs to enhance retention and progress toward long-term goals within NGHS' mission. Form 990, Part VI, Section C, line 19 Financial statements and statistics are filed quarterly with Digital Assurance Certification, LLC (DAC Bond). DAC Bond serves as a disclosure dissemination agent for issuers of municipal bonds electronically posting and transmitting information to repositories and investors. All other items are available upon request. Form 990, Part XI, line 9: INTERCOMPANY DEBT FORGIVENESS -112,350,903. PARTNERSHIP Income NOT ON BOOKS -209,270. Net Assets Released from Restriction 1,072,332. HealtheConnections LLC 743 Spring Street Gainesville GA 30501 581694098 Healthcare GA 0 0 N/A NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM INC 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 30501 581694090 HEALTHCARE - Parent Org. GA 501(c)(3) Line 12c, III-FI N/A 1 THE MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION INC 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 30501 581694820 FUNDRAISING and Support GA 501(c)(3) Line 7 Northeast Georgia Health System Inc 1 NORTHEAST GEORGIA PHYSICIANS GROUP INC 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 30501 582078064 HEALTHCARE GA 501(c)(3) Line 12b, II Northeast Georgia Health System Inc 1 The Medical Center Auxiliary Inc 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 30501 581550576 Fundraising and Support GA 501(c)(3) Line 10 Northeast Georgia Health System Inc 1 NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH PARTNERS LLC 743 SPRING STREET GAINESVILLE GA 30501 582131807 PPO DEVELOPMENT GA N/A C 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0