Op-Ed: Failure in Leadership – The Preventable Demise of Lawrence Medical Center
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of LCtoday. We welcome diverse perspectives and encourage open dialogue about the future of our community.
Signage on the front entrance of Lawrence Medical Center.
Today marks a sad day for the people of Lawrence County. It also marks an embarrassing day for the Hospital Board, the Lawrence County Commission, the Mayor and City Council of Moulton, and all other leaders who have failed to ensure that Lawrence Medical Center remains a cornerstone of this community for future generations. The decision to modify the services of Lawrence Medical Center and close essential emergency services is nothing more than a weak attempt by the Hospital Board and County Commission to “explain away” years of incompetence and mismanagement.
Lawrence County has a real problem. And that problem is a lack of forward-thinking leaders who make decisions based on the needs of future generations. The closure of Lawrence Medical Center did not happen overnight. It began years ago. The leaders whom we, the people, have elected to represent us and to act in our best interests have failed us. Their failure to focus on the future continues to have irreparable consequences.
To think that the people of this community will no longer have access to emergency care is unfathomable. Everyone needs to remember that the Hospital Board is appointed by the County Commission. Each member of the Hospital Board—most of whom have extremely limited experience or knowledge in healthcare—is appointed by their respective Commissioner. So, although the Board bears fault for its decisions, the County Commission holds ultimate responsibility for failing to appoint qualified members with firsthand experience in healthcare and an understanding of the industry’s challenges. The County Commission has failed the citizens of Lawrence County by continually appointing “friends” of “friends” without considering more qualified and experienced candidates who are ready and willing to make a difference. They have become complacent because we, the citizens, have allowed it.
Although the closing of Lawrence Medical Center was years in the making, the outcome could have been prevented with better leadership—leaders who are experienced, forward-thinking, and proactive. Lawrence County is better than this. We, the people, deserve better than this.
The healthcare industry is a wild animal. Understanding its complexities and challenges is paramount to making the best decisions. For years, healthcare reimbursement rates have been stagnant. Medicare and Medicaid reliance has increased, causing rural hospitals like Lawrence Medical Center to struggle. The old saying, “You can’t squeeze blood out of a turnip,” holds true. Our leaders had the opportunity to prepare for this, but they chose not to.
Lawrence County, understand this—you are not alone. Many other communities are facing similar challenges, but you have the opportunity to change course. Put qualified people in positions of leadership—people who will make a difference and prepare our community for future generations. Albert Einstein said, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.”
Citizens of Lawrence County, stand up and demand accountability from your leaders.
Our hospital didn’t have to close. This happened because our leadership failed us.
Make them own it.
Written by an anonymous follower.
