Small-hospital CEOs earn $230K-$330K—with a $550K exception (ME)

Many of the state's hospitals are small, rural and classified as critical-access, which earns them higher Medicare reimbursements—more taxpayer money—than other hospitals. CEO compensation has been a hot-button issue in recent years, provoking a lot of talk among lawmakers and one bill aimed at capping executive salaries —that bill died in committee. Proponents of such legislation have said high executive compensation is a symptom of greater healthcare spending problems and is one reason medical bills are so high. Opponents have said hospitals must pay their executives well to entice the best leaders, particularly in a rural state like Maine.