OMC sets 2014 Budget

The Board of Directors for Oconee Medical Center set the 2014 fiscal year budget at their meeting Monday night.  Projected spending was set at nearly $138 million with revenues at $140 million. The budget raises hospital charges by 5%, however, the increase applies mainly to insurers contracted to cover patients.  A budget breakdown shows $24 million allocated for supplies and $60.5 million in salary expenses. For those employees who qualify, a 3% merit pay raise is projected for June 2014. This past year Oconee Medical Center awarded across-the-board pay raises. Some new services are provided for in the new budget, including the first-ever for South Carolina in-hospital dental clinic. The lack of dental care for the uninsured ranks among the top health needs in the community.