Gila Regional Medical Center board reports $40M surplus, outlines staffing and service expansions
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Summary
Dr. Fred Fox, chair of the Gila Regional Medical Center board, told Grant County commissioners GRMC posted a fiscal-year net surplus of just over $40 million, completed a leadership transition and added specialty services, while defending trustees against criticism that they 'got in the weeds.'
Gila Regional Medical Center board chair Dr. Fred Fox reported to Grant County commissioners on Jan. 6 that the hospital improved its financial position in 2025 and completed leadership changes that leaders say put the hospital on a steadier footing.
"There has been a total net surplus for the fiscal year 25 of just over $40,000,000," Dr. Fox said, and staff completed the annual financial audit on time and submitted it to the state, pending release. He summarized governance steps taken in 2025: a national search for medical management, negotiating continued employment of CEO Mister Whitaker under board authority, appointment of a new chief financial officer, and ongoing board education on fiduciary duties.
The board also expanded clinical services, Dr. Fox said, adding an interventional radiologist, instituting a sleep lab and pulmonary clinic, opening behavioral health outpatient services, and increasing oncology clinic hours. He said recruitment and retention of physicians and the hospital's aging physical plant remain challenges.
Dr. Fox addressed criticism that the trustees were "getting in the weeds," calling the trustees volunteers who provide oversight, local knowledge and ethical service to the hospital. Commissioner Stevens thanked Dr. Fox for "regular reporting to the commission" and praised the board's role in helping turn the hospital around from prior financial trouble.
The manager's packet and staff noted continued collaboration between the hospital, county commissioners and other community groups; commissioners were invited to follow up at the regular meeting when hospital strategic planning will be discussed in executive session.
No formal action on hospital governance or finance was recorded in the work-session remarks; staff said the hospital audit is pending state release prior to public release.
