IHA released its latest economic impact report in January 2009, providing statistics on the number of jobs generated by community hospitals and the amount of money added to the state’s economy.

Despite the increasingly important role hospitals play in Iowa communities, they are just as susceptible to feeling the impact of a downturn in the economy. Comparing hospital data from the fourth quarter of 2008 to the same period in 2007 shows declines in virtually all service areas.

Thanks to the American Hospital Association, now you can hear specifically from leaders in Iowa hospitals about how they are dealing with these economic challenges. AHA spoke with several Iowa hospital executives at the AHA annual meeting this week and provided video clips on YouTube.

Carmela Brown, Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines

Todd Linden, Grinnell Regional Medical Center in Grinnell

Mike Myers, Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon

David Schwartz, Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon

Veronica Fuhs, Lucas County Health Center in Chariton