Insight CEO on future of Sharon Regional, Trumbull County hospitals
Sunday morning, 21 news had a one on one interview with Dr. Jawad Shah, founder and CEO of Insight Health Systems.
During the interview, Shaw reflected on the first few months at Trumbull Regional Medical Center and Hillside Rehabilitation Hospital, the former Steward hospitals in Trumbull County.
“The work that we were doing with Steward and what’s left now through the bankruptcy, there’s still some glitches and elements, not to their flaw or fault, but there, understandably, there’s transitions that have to occur,” said Shaw.
Despite the transition, Shaw said he is happy with what Insight has been able to accomplish in the first few months.
“The first goal, of course, is to stabilize the hospital operationally, clinically and financially, so we are still going through a transition,” said Shaw. "We’ve not only stabilized to a great degree, there’s still some things to do, but we’ve actually increased services."
Insight is still partnered with Medical Properties Trust (MPT), the landlord Steward said crippled operations for years. Shah did not say exactly when Insight plans to purchase the property from MPT, but is hopeful it will be in the next few years.
“Our timeline for, you know, completing that, is anytime between now and the next three years. So as we gathered the funds and we are capable of purchasing the property, that's the full intention now to do that, and that will then stabilize the hospitals for the community for the long term,” said Shaw.
Sharon Regional Medical Center was given a proposed closure date of January 6, 2025. When asked if Insight is interested in buying the hospital before it closes, Shah said they are discussing the possibility of stepping in.
“As far as Sharon is concerned, we are in discussions and considering you know, offering our support and help, but we are waiting to see all of the different elements, the players that are around,” said Shaw. “We're ready to help, and take over if necessary. And if it's not under the right parameters, and, or at the same time collaborate with those who do take over, but I'm very much hoping the hospital stays put. I think it's important for the Sharon community.”
Shah described Insight as “non-competitive”, and is waiting to see what groups are interested in Sharon Regional before deciding on how Insight will be involved.