EKB News

LOUISVILLE, KY (Monday, February 16, 2009): In addition to enhancing the health and well-being of the communities they care for, Kentucky’s hospitals contribute significantly to the area’s economic health, according to a recent report prepared by the Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA). The report revealed that the estimated total annual economic impact of hospital spending on staff salaries and purchases of supplies and services totaled nearly $5 billion in 2007. "Besides their caring role, Kentucky hospitals are an important part of the state and local economies. Even during periods of economic recession, hospitals continue to employee personnel to meet the growing demands for services, and thus contribute to the overall economy," said Michael T. Rust, president of KHA. "Everyone knows that hospitals are the safety net for their communities — staffed and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and ready to assist all patients regardless of whether they have insurance or can afford to pay — however, few realize the tremendous contribution hospitals make to the state’s economy. Strong and economically viable hospitals are critical to our quality of life, and Kentucky’s hospitals are an integral part of a community’s well-being," said Rust.