UP hospital awaiting decision on key federal loan

Iron Mountain – A health care provider that is a major employer in an Upper Peninsula county is waiting for a decision on a $16.9 million federal loan.

Dickinson County Healthcare System operates a hospital near the Michigan-Wisconsin border and has hundreds of employees. It has been grappling with its finances for a few years after potential mergers fell through.

Chief executive Chuck Nelson told the hospital board last week that its application has moved to a final review at the U.S. Agriculture Department, The Daily News reported.

There should be an indication “in the next two to three weeks if our funding will be accomplished,” Nelson said.

Money is being sought to refinance debt and acquire new equipment, although some projects are underway, including a $1 million emergency department renovation.

Dickinson County has a legal relationship with the hospital but no financial responsibility.