Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania-based Vibra Healthcare has announced the closure of its Fort Wayne, Indiana long-term acute care Vibra Hospital and the layoff of 120 employees. According to a company spokesperson, the decision was based primarily of declining revenues due to changes in healthcare reimbursement rates. A second Vibra Hospital in Springfield, Illinois will also be closed with an additional 130 layoffs.
A company spokesperson said, “We very much regret that we had to make this decision. It has not been an easy one. The recent changes in healthcare reimbursement have made this hospital extremely difficult to maintain. We will do everything possible to minimize the impact on patients, their families and our dedicated employees." Further noting that Medicare is in the second year of a two-year phase-in of changes in reimbursement for long term acute care hospitals which is resulting in fewer patients and lower reimbursements from Medicare.
It appears that most of the nation’s 430 LTAC (Long-Term Acute Care Facilities) are under significant pressure as Medicare completes its phased-in rules. It appears that at least 30 LTACs have shut down with more misery on the way.
Just because something bad hasn't happened yet, doesn't mean it won't. It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere ... are you now wondering, Am I Next?