Health official says he can't find good help

Cook County officials say the "perceived instability" of the county's hospital system, and low pay, is making it difficult to attract qualified billing staff.

Chief Financial Officer Michael Ayres says the inability to fill several patient billing jobs could trigger a financial crisis in the health system by the Nov. 30th end of fiscal year. He says it is beginning to appear the system will be up to $50 million short in revenues.

However, officials admit staffing isn't the only problem. They said a recent consolidation of the billing system delayed claims submissions. Delayed Medicaid payment is also contributing to the shortfall.

Board President Toni Preckwinkle says she didn't learn of the lagging revenues until Wednesday. She wouldn't say if county funds would be diverted to make up the shortfall.