Health Center Board hires a Manager
 After its meeting September 17, the BIRHC Board approved hiring a half-time Transition Manager. Arlene Brennan, who had been working as a consultant for three months until her contract expired on August 31, has agreed to continue in a more formal capacity as Manager. "Establishing this position has been a top priority for the Board. Finding Arlene and seeing her good work this summer was a natural and welcome chance to get a real health care professional for this important job," said Gary Damstra, Board president. Arlene's salary of $120,000 for the 18 months of her assignment will be paid in part from grants already received. If necessary, the remainder will come from the state grant for the new health center. One of Arlene's primary responsibilities will be to see that project to a successful conclusion.
The Board also approved a new fee schedule for certain services, which is expected to add some $8,200 to insurance claims. Arlene's research this summer found that the Health Center could recover this additional revenue from the various insurers due to changes in reimbursement schedules and more precise coding for certain patient services.
Finally, Anne Glendon delivered the exceptionally good news that the PT Cruiser raffle had raised a total of $25,000 as a result of the sale of all 400 tickets. The winner, Lyle Klinger from East Tawas on his first trip to Beaver Island, elected to take $15,000 cash in lieu of the car, thus adding $1,000 to the Health Center's net profit. The entire Board applauded the wonderful support given by the Beaver Island community and visitors. "Everyone would have liked to win, of course, but the really wonderful aspect was how many people said they bought tickets because the Health Center is such a good cause, and so vital to the Island," Anne said.
--Joe Reed
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