CSEA Stands Behind NUMC CEO

A News 12 story on July 17th highlighted the fact that Nassau University Medical Center now employs 17 vice presidents, 2 more than when CEO Art Gianelli took office in June 2006. Critics argue that there should not be more VP’s when there are less patients and less employees than in recent years.

But this is all part of a $240 million modernization plan designed by Gianelli that will create more revenue for the hospital. And even despite these new hires, and the 17 overall VP’s making a total of $3.7 million, the Nassau Health Care Corporation had its smallest losses since 1999 last year of just $8 million. This year’s losses are expected to be around $4 million with an outside chance of breaking even according to Gianelli. Money has been saved in areas such as changes in reimbursement, reduced overtime by consolidating floors, revenue cycle initiatives, and reduced contract costs.

The 2 new appointees are Chief Operating Officer, and Head of Ambulatory Services. Gianelli says, “We had 15 vice presidents, but there were major gaps in services you need.” Ambulatory services is one area where the hospital can generate revenue so having someone specialize in that is very vital to the fiscal health of hospital.

CSEA Local 830 President Jerry Laricchiuta was present for the interview that day, and stood behind Gianelli’s initiatives. “We have worked hand in hand with Art since Day 1 and we stand behind him especially after problems with the past administration,” he said. “We are confident that these appointees will have a positive effect on the future of this hospital.”

There are approximately 3,394 employees in the Nassau Health Care Corporation, 88 more than when Gianelli took over 15 months ago, with 2 new units in the hospital.