Cookeville Regional Medical Center unveils expansion plans and addresses Medicaid concerns

The Cookeville City Council meeting held on June 5, 2025, focused on the budget proposal for the Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) and addressed pressing healthcare concerns in the community. Key discussions included significant departmental purchases, expansion projects, and the financial implications of Medicaid cuts.

During the meeting, CRMC officials outlined their budget, which includes the acquisition of a new medical record system, Epic, and a Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator for radiation oncology. Notable expansion projects were also highlighted, such as the renovation of 4 West to add 20 beds, an endoscopy expansion to create four additional suites, and a joint venture with Encompass for a rehabilitation expansion that will add 40 inpatient rehabilitation beds.

The facility's financial status was discussed, revealing a projected cash reserve of $55.5 million for fiscal year 2026 and outstanding bond principal totaling $43.4 million. The council also reviewed anticipated principal and interest payments on these bonds, which are estimated at $3.8 million and $1 million, respectively.

Public comments during the meeting raised concerns about emergency room wait times, staff shortages, and access to outpatient mental health care. Community member Trenton Stroh questioned how the budget would address these issues and the potential impact of proposed Medicaid cuts on CRMC's services. He also inquired about the possibility of developing a secondary campus to meet growing regional healthcare demands.

CRMC CEO Buffy Key responded, emphasizing the hospital's commitment to providing care regardless of patients' ability to pay and addressing the challenges posed by Medicaid cuts. She noted that the hospital is not currently planning an off-campus expansion but has a growth plan that includes a new emergency room and a South Tower expansion.

Key also addressed concerns regarding the Epic medical record system, explaining that the investment would lead to better integration of patient records across facilities, ultimately improving patient care.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve CRMC's budget, reflecting the council's support for the hospital's plans to enhance healthcare services in the region. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by CRMC and the importance of strategic planning to meet the healthcare needs of the Cookeville community.