Rural Health District hires, fires

by Bill Boender

The Sublette County Rural Health Care District Board met at the Sublette County Courthouse Monday evening at 7 p.m. and tabled business regarding a helicopter pad at Marbleton and a security system at Pinedale in order to gather more information about both issues. The board agread to purchase a copier for $795, within established budget. Use of district credit cards, was discussed with concern expressed that users were not asking for sales tax exemptions when using the cards. Cards may be removed from units if this continues after all EMTs are reminded of the proper policy.

The trustees went into executive session for 45 minutes to discuss personnel issues and returned to announce several resignations, terminations and new hires. Cory Laster and Sandy Anderson were terminated, Katie Krieger, Wendy Gaston and Jody Yeary resigned and David Potter, David Noll and Julie Morrell were hired. There are now no paid EMTs in Marbleton. The board agreed that this can be changed should the need arise in the future, but Dr. Burnett has assured the board that it can be handled with volunteers.

Wil Gay resigned his position as supervisor effective Jan. 7, 2004, but will continue as a volunteer and was thanked by the board for his service.

A new policy and procedure manual has been produced and will be reviewed by all involved, with adoption anticipated in January 2004.

There was discussion of the possible establishment of a new position of administrator to coordinate operations between the board, doctors and EMTs in order to relieve the board of much of the administrative duties they now handle. This will be discussed with all involved to see if it might be beneficial and practical.

A lease of new office space from Gordon Reno was approved for 785 square feet at a monthly rate of $925 with a one-year renewable lease. The office is expected to move before the year ends when the previous lease expires.

Kris Bacheller advised that Spanish language training for all EMTs will be starting as soon as possible, due to recent difficulties with the language barrier in emergency situations.

The board thanked the staff and their employers for their support during the recent lack of available personnel and for help in interviewing and hiring several new applicants.