UMass Memorial Health Care in Worcester has received $36.1 million in an initial payout as part of the federal stimulus bill, Dr. Eric Dickson, the hospital’s president and CEO, said in a staff-wide memo Monday.
“The second wave of the stimulus will likely focus on paying organizations that care for Medicaid and pediatric patients,” Dickson said. “While we are pleased to receive this initial funding, it’s not enough to compensate us for our losses so far due to COVID-19. We are working closely with our legislators to continue to press for further relief aid.”
Despite that financial crunch, Dickson said he’s thankful for other contributions given to the hospital, financially and in equipment.
The UMass Memorial COVID-19 Response Fund has received $1.5 million in gifts and pledges, he said. In-kind donations, including masks, face shields, gloves and gowns, have totaled 1 million items from 130 businesses and individuals, including 300,000 masks.
