Community Benefit Insight - Tax-exempt hospital

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Griffin Hospital

The Griffin Hospital

130 Division Street
Derby, CT 06418

Bed count	160	Medicare provider number	070031	Member of the Council of Teaching Hospitals	YES	Children's hospital	NO

EIN: 060647014

Display data for year:

Community Benefit Spending- 2021
(as % of functional expenses, which all tax-exempt organizations report on Form 990 Schedule H)

11.4%

Spending by Community Benefit Category- 2021
(as % of total functional expenses)

* = CBI denoted preventative categories

Community Benefit Spending Compared to Functional Expenses, 2010-2021

Additional data

Community Benefit Expenditures: 2021

All tax-exempt organizations file a Form 990 with the IRS for every tax year. If the tax-exempt organization operates one or more hospital facilities during the tax year, the organization must attach a Schedule H to Form 990. On Part I of Schedule H, the organization records the expenditures it made during the tax year for various types of community benefits; 9 types are shown on this web tool. By default, this web tool presents community benefit expenditures as a percentage of the organization’s functional expenses, which it reports on Form 990, Part IX, Line 25, Column A. (The more commonly heard term, ‘total operating expenses’, which organizations report to CMS, is generally about 90% of the ‘functional expenses’). The user may change the default to see the dollar expenditures.
Amount spent in the following IRS community benefit categories:

Financial Assistance at cost as % of operating expenses	$ 3,547,406 1.41 %
Medicaid as % of operating expenses	$ 12,944,403 5.15 %
Costs of other means-tested government programs as % of operating expenses	$ 5,888 0.00 %
Health professions education as % of operating expenses	$ 1,302,808 0.52 %
Subsidized health services as % of operating expenses	$ 9,497,906 3.78 %
Research as % of operating expenses	$ 128,985 0.05 %
Community health improvement services and community benefit operations* as % of operating expenses Note: these two community benefit categories are reported together on the Schedule H, part I, line 7e.	$ 860,748 0.34 %
Cash and in-kind contributions for community benefit* as % of operating expenses	$ 380,967 0.15 %
Community building* as % of operating expenses	$ 0 0 %

* = CBI denoted preventative categories

Community building activities details:

Did tax-exempt hospital report community building activities?	Not available
Number of activities or programs (optional)	0
Physical improvements and housing	0
Economic development	0
Community support	0
Environmental improvements	0
Leadership development and training for community members	0
Coalition building	0
Community health improvement advocacy	0
Workforce development	0
Other	0
Persons served (optional)	0
Physical improvements and housing	0
Economic development	0
Community support	0
Environmental improvements	0
Leadership development and training for community members	0
Coalition building	0
Community health improvement advocacy	0
Workforce development	0
Other	0
Community building expense as % of operating expenses	$ 0 0 %
Physical improvements and housing as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Economic development as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Community support as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Environmental improvements as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Leadership development and training for community members as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Coalition building as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Community health improvement advocacy as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Workforce development as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Other as % of community building expenses	$ 0
Direct offsetting revenue	$ 0
Physical improvements and housing	$ 0
Economic development	$ 0
Community support	$ 0
Environmental improvements	$ 0
Leadership development and training for community members	$ 0
Coalition building	$ 0
Community health improvement advocacy	$ 0
Workforce development	$ 0
Other	$ 0

Other Useful Tax-exempt Hospital Information: 2021

In addition to community benefit and community building expenditures, the Schedule H worksheet includes sections on what percentage of bad debt can be attributable to patients eligible for financial assistance, and questions on the tax-exempt hospital's debt collection policy. When searching a specific tax-exempt hospital in this web tool, Section II provides information about bad debt and the financial assistance policy, and whether the state in which the tax-exempt hospital resides has expanded Medicaid coverage under the federal ACA.

Of the tax-exempt hospital’s overall operating expenses, amount reported as bad debt as % of operating expenses	$ 748,776 0.30 %
Is the tax-exempt hospital considered a "sole community hospital" under the Medicare program?	NO

Information about the tax-exempt hospital's Financial Assistance Policy and Debt Collection Policy
The Financial Assistance Policy section of Schedule H has changed over the years. The questions listed below reflect the questions on the 2009-2011 Schedule H forms and the answers tax-exempt hospitals provided for those years. The Financial Assistance Policy requirements were changed under the ACA. In the future, as the Community Benefit Insight web site is populated with 2021 data and subsequent years, the web tool will also be updated to reflect the new wording and requirements. In the meantime, if you have any questions about this section, we encourage you to contact your tax-exempt hospital directly.

Does the organization have a written financial assistance (charity care) policy?	YES
Did the tax-exempt hospital rely upon Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) to determine when to provide free or discounted care for patients?	YES
Amount of the tax-exempt hospital’s bad debt (at cost) attributed to patients eligible under the organization’s financial assistance (charity care) policy as % of operating expenses	$ 0 0 %

Did the tax-exempt hospital, or an authorized third party, take any of the following collection activities before determining whether the patient was eligible for financial assistance:
Under the ACA, states have the choice to expand Medicaid eligibility for their residents up to 138% of the federal poverty guidelines. The Medicaid expansion provision of the ACA did not go into effect until January 2014, so data in this web tool will not reflect each state's current Medicaid eligibility threshold. For up to date information, please visit the Terms and Glossary under the Resources tab.
The federal poverty guidelines (FPG) are set by the government and used to determine eligibility for many federal financial assistance programs. Tax-exempt hospitals often use FPG guidelines in their Financial Assistance policies to determine which patients will qualify for free or discounted care.
In addition to the federal requirements, some states have laws stipulating community benefit requirements as a result of tax-exemption. The laws vary from state to state and may require the tax-exempt hospitals to submit community benefit reports. Data on this web tool captures whether or not a state had a mandatory community benefit reporting law as of 2011. For more information, please see Community Benefit State Law Profiles Comparison at The Hilltop Institute.

Community Health Needs Assessment Activities: 2021

The ACA requires all 501(c)(3) tax-exempt hospitals to conduct a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) every three years, starting with the hospital's tax year beginning after March 23, 2012. The 2011 Schedule H included an optional section of questions on the CHNA process. This web tool includes responses for those hospitals voluntary reporting this information. The web tool will be updated to reflect changes in these questions on the 2012 and subsequent Schedule H forms.

Did the tax-exempt hospital report that they had conducted a CHNA?	YES
Did the CHNA define the community served by the tax-exempt hospital?	YES
Did the CHNA consider input from individuals that represent the broad interests of the community served by the tax-exempt hospital?	YES
Did the tax-exempt hospital make the CHNA widely available (i.e. post online)?	YES
Did the tax-exempt hospital adopt an implementation strategy to address the community needs identified by the CHNA?	YES

Supplemental Information: 2021

This section presents qualitative information submitted by the hospital, verbatim from the 990H record.

Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Description of the organization's program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.

4A (Expenses $ 208908628 including grants of $ 380967) (Revenue $ 254012125)
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS AN ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL PROVIDING MEDICAL CARE TO PATIENTS IN COMMUNITIES SERVED, INCLUDING SUBSIDIZED CARE, CHARITY CARE, AND EDUCATIONAL SERVICES TO HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO HELP PREPARE THE NEXT GENERATION OF CAREGIVERS.

4B (Expenses $ 3477034 including grants of $ 0) (Revenue $ 3042496)
PROVIDE PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY ON AN OUTPATIENT BASIS.

4C (Expenses $ 1705158 including grants of $ 0) (Revenue $ 5995528)
PROVIDE CANCER RELATED RADIOLOGY SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY.

4D (Expenses $ 102736 including grants of $ 0) (Revenue $ 104375)
PROVIDE HOSPICE SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY.

Facility Information

Schedule H (Form 990) Section C. Supplemental Information for Part V, Section B.

GRIFFIN HOSPITAL
"PART V, SECTION B, LINE 5: TO GATHER INPUT FROM PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC, GRIFFIN HOSPITAL PARTICIPATED IN THE CREATION OF THE 2022 VALLEY COMMUNITY INDEX. THE 2022 VALLEY COMMUNITY INDEX WAS CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH A DATAHAVEN. THIS REPORT REFLECTS THE MOST RECENT DATA COLLECTION EFFORTS TO EXAMINE THE SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND PHYSICAL HEALTH OF THE VALLEY AND CONTINUES WHERE THE 2019 COMMUNITY INDEX REPORT LEFT OFF. REGIONAL LEADERS FROM A RANGE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY ORGANIZATIONS HAVE COME TOGETHER TO EXAMINE WHAT HAS OCCURRED IN THE VALLEY IN THE LAST THREE YEARS. GRIFFIN HEALTH HAS STRONG AND LONGSTANDING PARTNERSHIPS WITH OTHER ORGANIZATIONS AND SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES IN THE REGION, INCLUDING THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DISTRICT, THE COMMUNITY BASED VALLEY COUNCIL FOR HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, THE ALLIANCE FOR PREVENTION & WELLNESS, THE VALLEY UNITED WAY, TEAM, INC. (""TEAM""), AND THE VALLEY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION. THE CHNA HELPED INFORM THE COMMUNITY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN, WHICH WAS DEVELOPED JOINTLY BY GRIFFIN AND THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO OUTLINE THE KEY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT INITIATIVES ADOPTED BY BOTH ORGANIZATIONS FOR THE UPCOMING THREE-YEAR PERIOD.GRIFFIN HEALTH IS COMMITTED TO DEVELOPING COMPREHENSIVE POPULATION HEALTH MANAGEMENT CAPABILITIES INCLUDING A COMMITMENT TO IDENTIFY SOCIAL NEEDS THAT IMPACT THE WELLBEING OF INDIVIDUALS WHO ACCESS THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM. SCREENING ACTIVITIES IN THE HOSPITAL'S EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT AND OUTPATIENT PHYSICIAN OFFICES HAVE PROMPTED GRIFFIN TO WORK WITH TEAM AND OTHER COMMUNITY BASED ORGANIZATIONS TO DEVELOP STRATEGIES TO ADDRESS FOOD INSECURITY, HOUSING ISSUES, AND TRANSPORTATION NEEDS THAT SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECT THE HEALTH OF INDIVIDUALS. GRIFFIN AND TEAM ARE LEADING EFFORTS TO ELIMINATE HUNGER IN THE REGION AND EDUCATE PEOPLE, PARTICULARLY THOSE WITH CHRONIC DISEASE BURDEN, ABOUT THE ADVERSE IMPACT THAT POOR NUTRITION CAN HAVE ON HEALTH. AS PART OF THAT EFFORT, GRIFFIN HAS PLEDGED TO SUBSIDIZE THE COST OF PURCHASING FOOD THAT WILL SUPPLEMENT THE DONATIONS RECEIVED BY LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES THAT SERVE THE REGION."

GRIFFIN HOSPITAL
PART V, SECTION B, LINE 6B: GRIFFINS CHNA WAS CONDUCTED WITH MANY DIFFERENT ORGANIZATIONS. TO UNDERSTAND THE VALLEY REGION, THE 2022 VALLEY COMMUNITY INDEX WAS PRODUCED BY THE VALLEY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND DATA HAVEN, OCTOBER 2022.THIS REPORT REFLECTS THE MOST RECENT DATA COLLECTION EFFORTS TO EXAMINE THE SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, AND PHYSICAL HEALTH OF THE VALLEY AND CONTINUES WHERE THE 2019 COMMUNITY INDEX REPORT LEFT OFF.LISTED BELOW ARE THE REGIONAL LEADERS FROM A RANGE OF MULTIDISCIPLINARY ORGANIZATIONS WHICH HAVE COME TOGETHER TO EXAMINE WHAT HAS OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE CHNA:-DATAHAVEN -VALLEY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, INC. -BASSETT FAMILY FUND -KATHARINE MATTHIES FOUNDATION, -BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., TRUSTEE -VALLEY UNITED WAY -THE MUNICIPALITIES OF THE LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY REGION-NAUGATUCK VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS -NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DISTRICT -THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR GREATER NEW HAVEN-AGENCY ON AGING, SOUTH CENTRAL CT -ALLIANCE FOR PREVENTION & WELLNESS -AMERICAN RED CROSS -ANSONIA YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU -AREA CONGREGATIONS TOGETHER (ACT-SPOONER) -BHCARE -BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF THE LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY -CONNECTICUT PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN -CORNELL SCOTT HEALTH CENTER -DERBY NECK LIBRARY -DERBY YOUTH SERVICES BUREAU -GREATER VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE -GRIFFIN HEALTH SERVICES -JULIA DAY NURSERY -MASSARO FARM -NAUGATUCK ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION -NAUGATUCK VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS -NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DISTRICT (NVHD) -NAUGATUCK YMCA -PARENT CHILD RESOURCE CENTER -SALVATION ARMY, LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY CHAPTER -SHELTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION -ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, VALLEY CHAPTER TEAM, INC. -TRAVELER ON A MISSION -UMBRELLA CENTER FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE -UR COMMUNITY CARES -VALLEY PARISH NURSES -VALLEY UNITED WAY -VALLEY YMCA -YALE-GRIFFIN PREVENTION RESEARCH CENTER-REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE VALLEY COUNCIL FOR HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES -REPRESENTATIVES FROM MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENTS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS THROUGHOUT THE VALLEY PART V, SECTION B, LINE 7A:'HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/ABOUT/DOCUMENTS-PUBLICATIONS/CHNA/PART V, SECTION B, LINE 7B:'HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/ABOUT/DOCUMENTS-PUBLICATIONS/CHNA/PART V, SECTION B, LINE 10A:'HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/ABOUT/DOCUMENTS-PUBLICATIONS/CHNA/

GRIFFIN HOSPITAL
PART V, SECTION B, LINE 11: THE 2022-2024 COMMUNITY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN (CHIP) FOR THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY COMMUNITIES IS PART OF A REGIONAL INITIATIVE THAT SUPPORTS REGULATORY AND ACCREDITATION REQUIREMENTS OF BOTH GRIFFIN HOSPITAL AND NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DISTRICT. THE OVERALL GOAL OF THIS COMMUNITY HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN IS TO ADDRESS CHRONIC CONDITIONS THAT AFFECT THE HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY, AND TO HELP REDUCE DISPARITIES IN THE HEALTH OF VARIOUS SEGMENTS OF THE VALLEY POPULATION. THE CHIP OUTLINES KEY OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES THAT ADDRESS DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND IMPROVE HEALTH EQUITY. THIS ROADMAP FOR IMPROVED HEALTH RESULTS FROM THE CONSISTENT DEDICATION OF NUMEROUS VALLEY PARTNERSHIPS, WORKING TOGETHER IN A COLLABORATIVE PLANNING PROCESS. FROM NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2022, APPROXIMATELY 100 STAKEHOLDERS FROM A WIDE RANGE OF COMMUNITY AGENCIES AND THE PUBLIC REVIEWED THE TOP CONCERNING PUBLIC HEALTH ISSUES IDENTIFIED IN THE 2022 VALLEY COMMUNITY INDEX, RESULTING IN IDENTIFICATION OF THE FOLLOWING KEY HEALTH PRIORITIES FOR THE VALLEY. THE AREAS OF FOCUS ARE:1. MENTAL HEALTH 2. SUBSTANCE USE 3. EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES MENTAL HEALTHTO REVIEW, VET AND DOCUMENT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES AVAILABLE IN THE SEVEN TOWNS IN THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY AND IMPLEMENT PROGRAMS WHERE GAPS IN SUPPORT AND CARE ARE FOUND. THIS INCLUDES GAINING FULL PARTNERSHIP AND SUPPORT OF THE LEADERS AND APPROPRIATE OFFICIALS IN EACH TOWN, EVIDENCED BY FOSTERING FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF AT LEAST THREE MITIGATION SOLUTIONS TO CHALLENGES FOUND DURING DISCOVERY AND RESEARCH PHASE. 1. INCREASE ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN THE SEVEN TOWNS WITHIN NAUGATUCK VALLEY. 2. DEVELOP NAUGATUCK VALLEY MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE DIRECTORY 3. INCREASE TRAININGS AVAILABLE FOR STAFF IN BOTH SCHOOLS AND YOUTH-BASED ORGANIZATIONS TO PROVIDE YOUTH WITH THE TOOLS TO HELP IDENTIFY MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES AND INTERVENTIONS. 4. DEVELOP MEASUREMENT TOOLS TO TRACK SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION 5. SECURE BUY IN FROM TOWN LEADERSHIP AND APPROPRIATE OFFICIALS SUBSTANCE USE TO DECREASE SUBSTANCE MISUSE AND DEATHS THROUGH EVIDENCE-BASED INTERVENTIONS AND EDUCATION FOCUSING ON OPIOIDS, ALCOHOL USE, AND VAPING CANNABIS AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS. 1. INVENTORY CURRENT WORKING GROUPS/COALITIONS, PROGRAMS AND/OR INITIATIVES THAT ARE CURRENTLY ADDRESSING THESE AREAS 2. CREATE A RESOURCE DIRECTORY 3. COMPLETE STRATEGIC PREVENTION FRAMEWORK (SPF) AMONG WORKGROUP AND APPLY FRAMEWORK TO OBJECTIVES. 4. REDUCE ED VISITS FOR ALCOHOL INTOXICATION 5. IMPLEMENT INTERVENTIONS AND TRACK PROGRESS 6. PUBLISH A QUARTERLY DATA REPORT DURING EACH FISCAL YEAR OF THE CHIP EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES TO GAIN A COMPREHENSIVE UNDERSTANDING OF ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICESTHAT MAY OR MAY NOT BE EQUITABLE, AND THAT IMPACT THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF THE COMMUNITY. ADDITIONALLY, WE WANT TO IDENTIFY AND ADDRESS BARRIERS FOR EACH, AND WORKWITH POLICY MAKERS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS (AGENCIES AND RESIDENTS) TO CREATE SOLUTIONS TO IMPROVE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES. 1. CREATE A DETAILED INVENTORY OF SERVICES AND MEDICAL, DENTAL, AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PRACTICES WITH SPECIFIC INFORMATION.2. CREATE AND DISSEMINATE ROADMAP TO IMPROVE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO PROVIDER GROUPS IN THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY.3. IDENTIFY BARRIERS TO EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES.

GRIFFIN HOSPITAL
PART V, SECTION B, LINE 13B: OTHER CRITERIA BEYOND FPG ARE ALSO CONSIDERED (I.E., AVAILABILITY OF CASH OR OTHER ASSETS THAT MAY BE CONVERTED TO CASH, AND EXCESS MONTHLY NET INCOME RELATIVE TO MONTHLY HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURES), WHICH MAY RESULT IN EXCEPTIONS TO THE PRECEDING.

PART V, LINE 16A, FAP WEBSITE:
HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/GRIFFIN-HOSPITAL/BILLING-INSURANCE/FINANCIAL-ASSISTANCE-PROGRAM

PART V, LINE 16B, FAP APPLICATION WEBSITE:
HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/GRIFFIN-HOSPITAL/BILLING-INSURANCE/FINANCIAL-ASSISTANCE-PROGRAM

PART V, LINE 16C, FAP PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY WEBSITE:
HTTPS://WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/GRIFFIN-HOSPITAL/BILLING-INSURANCE/FINANCIAL-ASSISTANCE-PROGRAM

Supplemental Information

Schedule H (Form 990) Part VI

PART I, LINE 3C:
OTHER CRITERIA BEYOND FPG ARE ALSO CONSIDERED (I.E., AVAILABILITY OF CASH OR OTHER ASSETS THAT MAY BE CONVERTED TO CASH, AND EXCESS MONTHLY NET INCOME RELATIVE TO MONTHLY HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURES).

PART I, LINE 7:
CHARITY CARE AND OTHER COMMUNITY BENEFITS TABLE WERE CALCULATED USING A COST ACCOUNTING SYSTEM OR COST TO CHARGE RATIO. THE COST ACCOUNTING SYSTEM ADDRESSES ALL PATIENT SEGMENTS AND ASSIGNS COST TO INDIVIDUAL SERVICES.

PART I, LN 7 COL(F):
THE BAD DEBT EXPENSE INCLUDED ON FORM 990, PART IX, LINE 25(A), BUT SUBTRACTED FOR PURPOSES OF CALCULATING THE PERCENTAGE IN THIS COLUMN IS $ 2,996,146.

PART III, LINE 2:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL BAD DEBT EXPENSE IS DETERMINED USING UNCOLLECTED ACCOUNTS NET OF ANY BAD DEBT RECOVERY MULTIPLIED BY THE COST TO CHARGE RATIO. GRIFFIN HOSPITAL HAS A WRITTEN POLICY ABOUT WHEN AND UNDER WHOSE AUTHORITY PATIENT DEBT IS ADVANCED FOR COLLECTION AND SHALL USE ITS BEST EFFORTS TO ENSURE THAT THE PATIENT ACCOUNTS ARE PROCESSED FAIRLY AND CONSISTENTLY. CHARITY APPROVAL WILL AFFECT ALL ACCOUNTS FOR WHICH THE APPROVED GUARANTOR IS RESPONSIBLE. THE APPROVED CHARITY PERCENTAGE WILL BE APPLIED TO ALL EXISTING ACCOUNTS WITH DEBIT BALANCES. ACCOUNTS MAY ALSO BE RETURNED FROM BAD DEBT STATUS IF FINANCIAL CIRCUMSTANCES WARRANT AND CHARITY MAY BE APPLIED. THE HOSPITAL PROVIDES CARE TO PATIENTS WHO MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA UNDER ITS FREE CARE POLICY WITHOUT CHARGE OR AT AMOUNTS LESS THAT IT'S ESTABLISHED AND CONTRACTUAL RATES. BECAUSE THE HOSPITAL DOES NOT PURSUE COLLECTION OF AMOUNTS DETERMINED TO QUALIFY AS FREE CARE, THEY ARE NOT REPORTED AS NET PATIENT SERVICE REVENUE.

PART III, LINE 3:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL DOES NOT ATTRIBUTE ANY BAD DEBT TO COMMUNITY BENEFIT EXPENSE. UNCOLLECTED BALANCES ARE REVIEWED AT MANY STAGES TO DETERMINE IF THEY FALL UNDER UNINSURED OR FREE CARE ASSISTANCE.

PART III, LINE 4:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS INCLUDED IN THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR GRIFFIN HEALTH SERVICE CORPORATION (THE CORPORATION). FOOTNOTE 4 - ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND NET PATIENT SERVICE REVENUE BEGINS ON PAGE 20 OF THE AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.

PART III, LINE 8:
THE ENTIRE MEDICARE LOSS PRESENTED SHOULD BE TREATED AS A COMMUNITY BENEFIT FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: THE IRS COMMUNITY BENEFIT STANDARD INCLUDES THE PROVISION OF CARE TO MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES, IRS REVENUE RULING 69545 INDICATES THAT HOSPITALS OPERATE FOR THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH IN THE COMMUNITY WHEN IT PROVIDES CARE TO PATIENTS WITH GOVERNMENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS, THE ORGANIZATION PROVIDES CARE TO MEDICARE PATIENTS REGARDLESS OF MEDICARE SHORTFALLS (REDUCING THE BURDEN ON THE GOVERNMENT), AND MANY OF THE MEDICARE PARTICIPANTS WOULD HAVE QUALIFIED FOR THE CHARITY CARE OR OTHER MEANS TESTED PROGRAMS ABSENT BEING ENROLLED IN THE MEDICARE PROGRAM. THE MEDICARE SHORTFALL REPORTED IS DETERMINED BY THE HOSPITAL'S COST ACCOUNTING SYSTEM.

PART III, LINE 9B:
RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL WILL BE INFORMED ABOUT THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE UNDER THE FAP. AT LEAST THREE SEPARATE SINGLE PATIENT ACCOUNT STATEMENTS FOR COLLECTION OF SELF-PAY ACCOUNTS SHALL BE MAILED TO THE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF EACH RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL PRIOR TO THE END OF THE NOTIFICATION PERIOD; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT NO ADDITIONAL SINGLE PATIENT ACCOUNT STATEMENTS NEED BE SENT AFTER A RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL SUBMITS A COMPLETE APPLICATION FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE FAP.AT LEAST 120 DAYS SHALL HAVE ELAPSED BETWEEN THE FIRST AND LAST OF THE REQUIRED THREE MAILINGS. ALL SINGLE PATIENT ACCOUNT STATEMENTS OF SELF-PAY ACCOUNTS WILL INCLUDE:1. AN ACCURATE SUMMARY OF THE HOSPITAL SERVICES COVERED BY THE STATEMENT;2. THE CHARGES FOR SUCH SERVICES; AND3. THE AMOUNT REQUIRED TO BE PAID BY THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL (OR, IF SUCH AMOUNT IS NOT KNOWN, A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE OF SUCH AMOUNT AS OF THE DATE OF THE INITIAL STATEMENT).DETAILED ITEMIZATIONS FOR HOSPITAL CHARGES WILL BE PROVIDED UPON REQUEST.AT LEAST ONE OF THE SINGLE PATIENT ACCOUNT STATEMENTS SENT DURING THE NOTIFICATION PERIOD WILL INCLUDE WRITTEN NOTICE THAT INFORMS THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL ABOUT THE ECAS THAT MAY BE TAKEN IF THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL DOES NOT APPLY FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE FAP OR PAY THE AMOUNT DUE BY THE BILLING DEADLINE (I.E., THE LAST DAY OF THE NOTIFICATION PERIOD). SUCH STATEMENT MUST BE PROVIDED TO THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL AT LEAST 30 DAYS BEFORE THE DEADLINE SPECIFIED IN THE STATEMENT, IF COMMENCING ECAS.A STATEMENT INDICATING INTENT TO TRANSFER THE SINGLE PATIENT ACCOUNT TO A COLLECTION AGENCY SHALL BE MAILED TO THE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS OF EACH RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL AT LEAST 30 DAYS PRIOR TO THE TRANSFER OF A SELF-PAY ACCOUNT TO A COLLECTION AGENCY OR THE INITIATION OF ANY ECA. A REASONABLE EFFORT TO ORALLY NOTIFY THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUALS BY TELEPHONE AT THE LAST KNOWN TELEPHONE NUMBER MUST ALSO BE MADE. DURING ALL CONVERSATIONS, THE RESPONSIBLE INDIVIDUAL WILL BE INFORMED ABOUT THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE THAT MAY BE AVAILABLE UNDER THE FAP. A COPY OF THE BILLING AND COLLECTION POLICY IS AVAILABLE AT WWW.GRIFFINHEALTH.ORG/PORTALS/0/DOCUMENTS/FINANCIAL%20ASSISTANCE/THE-GRIFFIN-HOSPITAL-BILLING-AND-COLLECTIONS-POLICY.PDF

PART VI, LINE 5:
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IS A VOLUNTEER BOARD OF PROMINENT MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY.THE HOSPITAL HAS AN OPEN MEDICAL STAFF.SEE THE DESCRIPTION OF COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES FOR ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY SERVICES PROVIDED FREE OR WITH MINIMAL CHARGE TO THE COMMUNITY.

PART VI, LINE 6:
THE GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS PART OF AN INTEGRATED HEALTH SYSTEM WHICH INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING ENTITIES:GRIFFIN HEALTH SERVICES CORPORATION - HOLDING COMPANYGRIFFIN FACULTY PHYSICIANS, INC. - MEDICAL/EDUCATIONGRIFFIN HOSPITAL DEVELOPMENT FUND - FUNDRAISINGPLANETREE INTERNATIONAL, INC. - EDUCATION

PART VI, LINE 7:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL OPERATES IN THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT WHICH DOES NOT REQUIRE FILING OF A COMMUNITY BENEFIT REPORT. IF FILING WAS REQUIRED, THE HOSPITAL WOULD COMPLY.

PART II, COMMUNITY BUILDING ACTIVITIES:
"PROMOTION OF COMMUNITY HEALTH:AS A PATIENT-CENTERED HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS COMMITTED TO PARTNERING WITH OUR COMMUNITY TO PROMOTE WELLNESS THROUGH A WIDE VARIETY OF PROGRAMS AND SERVICES. GRIFFIN-SPONSORED EVENTS AS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY COMMUNITY, GRIFFIN HOSPITAL WORKS IN TANDEM WITH OTHER COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS TO STRENGTHEN OUR CITIZENS, ENCOURAGE POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS, FACILITATE ONGOING WELLNESS AND PROVIDE ONGOING SUPPORT TO THOSE IN NEEDS. VALLEY PARISH NURSE PROGRAM VALLEY PARISH NURSES SERVE AS COORDINATORS BETWEEN THE CLERGY, PARISH, AND RESOURCES IN THE COMMUNITY, SUCH AS HOSPITALS AND OTHER SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES. MOBILE HEALTH RESOURCE CENTER- THE GRIFFIN HOSPITAL MOBILE HEALTH RESOURCE VAN IS A CUSTOM-BUILT WINNEBAGO THAT TRAVELS TO VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY, SUCH AS SENIOR CENTERS, SHOPPING CENTERS, NEIGHBORHOODS, COMPANIES AND COMMUNITY EVENTS AND FAIRS. ADVANCE CARE PLANNING PLAN NOW TO ENSURE THAT YOUR WISHES FOR END-OF-LIFE DECISIONS ARE UNDERSTOOD, RESPECTED, AND HONORED BY LOVED ONES AND HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS. HEALTH INITIATIVE FOR MEN (HIM)- THE GOAL OF THE HIM IS TO INFLUENCE MEN TO SEE THEIR PHYSICIAN ANNUALLY, AND TO BE SCREENED FOR VARIOUS DISEASES THAT RESPOND BETTER TO TREATMENT IF DETECTED EARLY. THE VALLEY WOMEN'S HEALTH INITIATIVE (WHI) IS COMPRISED OF MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY WORKING TOWARD A COMMON GOAL OF ADDRESSING AND IMPROVING WOMEN'S HEALTH ISSUES INCLUDING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS AND HEART DISEASE. WOMEN'S HEART WELLNESS COMMITTEE A COMMUNITY INITIATIVE FOCUSED ON EDUCATION, OUTREACH, AND PREVENTION. HEALTH RESOURCE CENTER - THE COMMUNITY HEALTH RESOURCE CENTER (HRC) AT GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS A TRADITIONAL FREE LENDING LIBRARY THAT PROVIDES AN ARRAY OF MEDICAL AND HEALTH INFORMATION. PERSONAL EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GRIFFIN HOSPITAL DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (EM) HELPS TO PREPARE THE COMMUNITY IN CASE OF A DISASTER OR EMERGENCY SITUATION. THIS PAGE PROVIDES SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS TIPS AS WELL AS IMPORTANT LOCAL AND GOVERNMENTAL CONTACTS.PLANETREE WELLNESS EDUCATION SERIES GRIFFIN HOSPITAL'S PLANETREE EDUCATION IS PROUD TO OFFER THIS FREE HEALTH EMPOWERMENT SERIES OF FUN AND EDUCATIONAL TALKS FOR MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY. SAFE KIDS GRIFFIN HOSPITAL'S SAFE KIDS GREATER NAUGATUCK VALLEY COALITION IS AVAILABLE TO EDUCATE CHILDREN AND ADULTS ON VARIETY OF HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMS TO REDUCE UNINTENTIONAL INJURIES AMONG CHILDREN. IN ADDITION TO PROVIDING HEALTH INFORMATION AND SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC AT THE HOSPITAL AND OTHER SATELLITE LOCATIONS, GRIFFIN TAKES THESE ACTIVITIES INTO THE COMMUNITIES WHERE PATIENTS LIVE, WORK, AND WORSHIP. BY OFFERING A VARIETY OF SUPPORT GROUPS, TRAINING SESSIONS, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS, AND OTHER COMMUNITY-BASED RESOURCES AND ACTIVITIES, AND COLLABORATING WITH OTHER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND GOVERNMENT ENTITIES, GRIFFIN HAS EXTENDED ITS MISSION ""TO PROVIDE LEADERSHIP TO IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF THE COMMUNITY SERVED"" FAR BEYOND THE HOSPITAL'S WALLS. SPECIAL PROGRAMS WERE HELD ON THE FOLLOWING TOPICS AT LOCAL CHURCHES, LIBRARIES, HOSPITAL, SENIOR CENTERS AND PRIVATE COMPANIES: MONTHLY ACP -ACCOUNTABLE CARE PLANNING, ACCESS HEALTH ASSISTANCE, BREAST WELLNESS, DIABETES EDUCATION FALL PREVENTION, TRANSPORTING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS INSTRUCTOR CLASS, AARP SAFE DRIVING, CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY CONFERENCE, VOLUNTEER PARISH NURSES FROM NUMEROUS DIFFERENT PARISHES AFFILIATED WITH THE VPNP AT GRIFFIN HOSPITAL PARTICIPATED FOR THE PROGRAM YEAR. CONTACTS INCLUDED OFFICE HOUR VISITS, HOME, HOSPITAL AND NURSING HOME VISITS, PHONE CALLS, AND BULLETIN DELIVERIES, HEALTH AND WELLNESS PROGRAMS WERE HOSTED AT THE VARIOUS CHURCHES. GRIFFIN HOSPITAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH STAFF VISITED MANY COMMUNITY SITES CONSISTING OF LOCAL CHURCHES, FOOD BANKS, SHELTERS AND SHOPPING AREAS AND THE VALLEY PARISH NURSE PROGRAM COMPLETED A SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF SCREENINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. COMMUNITY OUTREACH MEETINGS WERE HELD WITH LOCAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, HEALTH DEPTS., HEALTH CARE COUNCILS, PARISH NURSING, SAFE KIDS, CANCER COMMITTEES, ACO STEERING ACP, QUARTERLY AHA, ANSONIA EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL, CANCER COMMITTEE, CHA- COMMUNITY HEALTH GROUP, CT COALITION OF DIABETES EDUCATOR, DERBY DIABETES PREVENTION TASK FORCE, EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL COORDINATOR, CT DIABETES PARTNERSHIP, PASTORAL CARE, SAFE KIDS, STATE DEPT. HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PLAN, VALLEY HEALTH/HUMAN SERVICES, VALLEY HEALTHCARE COUNCIL, VALLEY PARISH NURSES, VALLEY COUNCIL YOUTH COMMITTEE, EARLY CHILDHOOD COUNCIL. GRIFFIN HELD CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. CHILDREN'S EDUCATION PROGRAMS INCLUDED CPR EDUCATION, POISON EDUCATION, HALLOWEEN HOME, FIRE 911, GERMS, WINTER, PETS, NUTRITION, EXERCISE, SPORTS, SUMMER, WATER AND PEDESTRIAN CROSSING. SUPPORT GROUPS OFFERED THROUGH GRIFFIN HOSPITAL VALLEY PARISH NURSE, CANCER CENTER AND PASTORAL CARE WERE HELD. SUPPORT GROUPS INCLUDED ALZHEIMER CAREGIVERS, DIABETES, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, PASTORAL CARE BEREAVEMENT GROUP, VOICES OF HOPE, LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER, AND CIRCLE OF FRIENDS. GRIFFIN HOSPITAL SUPPLIED COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE THROUGH THE WALK RUN 5K FUNDRAISING EVENT THAT SUPPLIED THE FUNDS TO ASSIST OUR COMMUNITY CANCER PROGRAMS SUCH AS LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER, VOICES OF HOPE AND ASSISTANCE FOR WIGS AND SUPPLIES, TREATMENT, TRANSPORTATION, SEYMOUR PINK EXERCISE TRAINER, AFTER THE STORM MASSAGE THERAPY SERVICES AND CIRCLE OF FRIENDS. GRIFFIN HOSPITAL HOSTS WONDERLAND OF TREES PROGRAM WHICH SUPPORTS EMPLOYEES TIME TO RAISE MONEY IN THE HOSPITAL WITH A CHRISTMAS TREE RAFFLES AND EASTER RAFFLES WERE THE MONEY IS DONATED TO SPOONER HOUSE FOOD SHELTER IN SHELTON, CT."

PART VI, LINE 2:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL REALIZED THAT THERE ARE MANY NEEDS FROM A POPULATION HEALTH STANDPOINT THAT TO BE ADDRESSED. WORKING COLLABORATIVELY WITH THE NAUGATUCK VALLEY HEALTH DISTRICT, THE VALLEY COUNCIL FOR HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, THE ALLIANCE FOR PREVENTION & WELLNESS (FORMERLY VSAAC) AND OUR VALLEY PARISH NURSES COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM, GRIFFIN HOSPITAL PROACTIVELY ADDRESS ISSUE AREAS SUCH AS MENTAL HEALTH, SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND EQUITABLE ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE. BY REVIEWING THE SEVEN VALLEY TOWNS THROUGHOUT THE 2022 VALLEY COMMUNITY INDEX, TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION EDUCATION, HOUSING, EMPLOYMENT, RECREATION, EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT, AND AGING ISSUES IN ADDITION TO HEALTH AND HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES, GRIFFIN HOSPITAL IS ABLE TO SEE A MUCH BROADER AND MORE COMPREHENSIVE PICTURE THAN EVER BEFORE. THIS INDEX SERVES AS THE AERIAL VIEW FROM WHICH GRIFFIN HOSPITAL CAN ZOOM IN ON THE CHALLENGES IN THE COMMUNITY, THE ISSUES GRIFFIN HOSPITAL HOPES TO ADDRESS, AND THE MANY OPPORTUNITIES GRIFFIN HOSPITAL HAS TO LEVERAGE ITS RESOURCES OVER THE NEXT THREE YEARS TO EFFECT CHANGE AND IMPROVE THE HEALTH OF OUR COMMUNITY.

PART VI, LINE 3:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL'S COMMUNITY OUTREACH OFFICE COORDINATOR WOULD ASSIST MEMBERS WITH INSURANCE ELIGIBILITY. THE POPULATION HEALTH STAFF ALONG WITH THE ACCOUNTABLE HEALTH COMMUNITIES' SCREENERS ALSO ASSIST IN IDENTIFYING IF SOMEONE NEEDS ASSISTANCE WITH INSURANCE ELIGIBILITY AND SOCIAL NEEDS. THEY WERE OFTEN REFERRED TO TEAM OR OTHER COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY ORGANIZATIONS AS NEEDED TO ADDRESS SOCIAL NEEDS AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS. DURING THE YEAR, A COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER POSITION WAS CREATED TO ACCUMULATE INFORMATION AND FIND RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS IN NEED. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE BROCHURE AND POSTERS ARE LOCATED THROUGHOUT THE HOSPITAL (CHILDBIRTH AREA, ER AREA, CUSTOMER SERVICE AREA) IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH EXPLAINING THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE POLICY AND HOW TO CONTACT THE FINANCIAL COUNSELORS. BROCHURES ARE ALSO DISTRIBUTED AT COMMUNITY EVENTS. AT REGISTRATION THE ADMITTING REGISTRAR WHO WILL IDENTIFY THE PATIENT AS HAVING NO MEDICAL INSURANCE (SELF-PAY). THE PATIENT WILL BE GIVEN A FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PAMPHLET THAT WILL IDENTIFY ALL GRIFFIN HOSPITAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS. THE PAMPHLET ALSO INCLUDES HOSPITAL CONTACTS FOR PATIENTS SEEKING STATE WELFARE OR OTHER STATE PROGRAMS.

PART VI, LINE 4:
GRIFFIN HOSPITAL, LICENSED BY THE STATE OF CONNECTICUT FOR 160 BEDS AND 15 BASSINETS, IS A GENERAL ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL SERVING A PRIMARY SERVICE AREA (PSA) OF SIX TOWNS, THAT COMPRISE THE LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY INCLUDING ANSONIA, DERBY, SEYMOUR, SHELTON, OXFORD, BEACON FALLS AND SURROUNDING TOWNS INCLUDING BETHANY, MIDDLEBURY, MILFORD, MONROE, NAUGATUCK, ORANGE, PROSPECT, SOUTHBURY, STRATFORD, TRUMBULL, WOODBRIDGE AND WOODBURY. IN THE VALLEY, ANSONIA, DERBY, AND NAUGATUCK CONTAIN THE DIVERSE NEIGHBORHOODS AND MANUFACTURING LEGACIES THAT ARE COMMON TO URBAN PERIPHERY TOWNS THROUGHOUT THE STATE. BEACON FALLS AND SEYMOUR SHARE SOME OF THE CHARACTERISTICS OF RURAL TOWNS, WHILE OXFORD AND SHELTON ARE MORE TYPICAL OF HIGHER-INCOME SUBURBAN AREAS. GIVEN THIS VARIETY, THE REGION IS A MICROCOSM OF CONNECTICUT AS A WHOLE. THE VALLEY IS A COMMUNITY OF CONNECTICUT TOWNS LOCATED IN NEW HAVEN AND FAIRFIELD COUNTIES. IT LIES ALONG THE HOUSATONIC AND NAUGATUCK RIVERS AND IS CONNECTED TO CITY CENTERS ALONG I-95 BETWEEN NEW YORK AND NEW HAVEN, AS WELL AS ALONG ROUTE 8 TO WATERBURY. WE DEFINE THE VALLEY AS THE SEVEN TOWNS: ANSONIA, BEACON FALLS, DERBY, NAUGATUCK, OXFORD, SEYMOUR, AND SHELTON. THE TOWNS SHARE A SPIRITED COMMUNITY CULTURE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS, WHICH COLLABORATE ON INITIATIVES IN CIVIC VITALITY, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND QUALITY OF LIFE. THE VALLEY HAS A COMMON HISTORY AND IDENTITY, BUT EACH OF ITS TOWNS HAS ITS OWN UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS. THE REGION'S DEMOGRAPHICS AND ECONOMY ARE CONSTANTLY CHANGING IN RESPONSE TO OUTSIDE FORCES; THESE CHANGES AFFECT THE REGION'S NEIGHBORHOODS IN DIFFERENT WAYS. TOWN CENTERS OFFER A LARGE SHARE OF RENTAL OR AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS, WHICH ARE ATTRACTIVE TO YOUNGER WORKERS, SINGLE ADULTS, AND OTHER HOUSEHOLDS THAT WOULD PREFER TO RENT FOR ECONOMIC OR LIFESTYLE REASONS. IN OTHER NEIGHBORHOODS, NEWER HOMES AND LARGER LOTS CONTINUE TO ATTRACT HOMEOWNERS WITH HIGH INCOMES. THE VARIETY OF NEIGHBORHOODS AND RESIDENTS WHO CHOOSE TO LIVE IN THE AREA HELP MAKE THE VALLEY A RESILIENT COMMUNITY WITH A RICH TRADITION OF IMMIGRATION AND MIGRATION. THE VALLEY'S LEGACY OF AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION ARISES FROM ITS LOCATION ALONG TWO MAJOR RIVERS. TODAY, THE ECONOMY OF THE VALLEY COMMUNITIES IS SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCED BY THE CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT ALONG THE ROUTE 8 CORRIDOR, WHICH HAS RESULTED IN BOTH OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES. SHELTON, IN PARTICULAR, HAS EXPERIENCED NEW COMMERCIAL AND OFFICE DEVELOPMENT BY VIRTUE OF ITS LOCATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE. ITS STRONG FINANCIAL BASE, HOWEVER, CAN MASK THE ECONOMIC CHALLENGES THAT OTHER TOWNS FACE. LEVELS OF PERSONAL WELL-BEING ARE NOT EVENLY DISTRIBUTED ACROSS THE VALLEY'S POPULATION. AN INCREASINGLY DIVERSE POPULATION AND A GROWING NUMBER OF SENIORS PRESENT NEW NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES. INCOMES VARY BY TOWN, AND MORE PEOPLE, ESPECIALLY CHILDREN, LIVE IN ECONOMIC HARDSHIP. CANCER, HEART DISEASE, AND ACCIDENTS ARE LEADING CAUSES OF PREMATURE DEATHS. ALMOST HALF OF VALLEY WORKERS EARN LESS THAN WHAT IS CONSIDERED NECESSARY TO COVER COSTS OF LIVING IN THE REGION.

Operating expenses	$ 251,531,505
Total amount spent on community benefits as % of operating expenses	$ 28,669,111 11.40 %