ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Mission Hospital is facing federal sanctions for the third time in less than two years, its CEO told employees Thursday, a move that could jeopardize crucial Medicare and Medicaid funding.

In a letter obtained Friday by Asheville Watchdog, CEO Greg Lowe said the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) had placed the hospital in “immediate jeopardy,” a designation indicating deficiencies that could endanger patient lives. Asheville Watchdog reported the designation Friday morning.

The finding is one of the most serious sanctions a hospital can receive.

The letter follows a visit by state regulators from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, which reportedly took place Jan. 6-9. Employees were notified of the findings on Thursday.

Mission Health spokesperson Nancy Lindell said the hospital has submitted comprehensive plans to CMS to address the deficiencies.

“Our collaboration with CMS has provided an opportunity to strengthen our processes and further enhance patient care,” she said. “We have the resources and support from our organization to make the improvements identified. We take our responsibilities to the citizens of Western North Carolina seriously, and our leadership, dedicated caregivers and physicians remain focused on providing the best possible care.”