Stamford Memorial Hospital has continued to face challenges since the cutbacks that were announced back in July.

At that time, the hospital had three doctors under contract. By changing compensation terms, reducing base compensation by 25%, the doctors’ contracts were voided. Two decided not to accept the offer, which added an incentive that could have at least partially offset the decrease in base pay.

The CEO recently met with employees. He stated that he does not presently intend to lay any additional employees off. He said, and I concur with the opinion, that Stamford Memorial Hospital is likely to be able to continue operations into the future, but it will be leaner. However, he said that he would be unlikely to fill the positions of employees that leave voluntarily. He added that employees that have other offers, especially if they are better offers, should give them serious consideration. He had previously spoken to me individually, mentioning that my position would likely end when I leave.

With all of that in mind, and in consideration of the magnitude of the task ahead in Aspermont, I have decided to work at Stonewall Memorial Hospital full time, beginning the last full week of October. Although this could be a permanent position, my family and I are still hopeful of returning to Tennessee, although it will clearly be on a later schedule than originally hoped.

I have truly enjoyed the challenges and successes that I have experienced in Stamford. Management and my colleagues have been supportive and helpful consistently throughout my time here.