The introduction this week of a bill that would raise the minimum wage for every health care worker in the state to $25 an hour comes at a time when hospitals throughout California are, literally, closing their doors or reducing the services they offer just to keep open.
So far this year, one hospital in California has already closed its doors. Several have cut services or closed departments. Others are likely not far behind. And, as the financial challenges continue to mount for your hospitals, it’s the most vulnerable patients who are suffering the most.
The latest report from nationally respected hospital consulting firm Kaufman Hall affirms the likelihood that in the coming months, even more hospitals will be forced to close or reduce services — a troubling prospect for communities throughout California and the unfortunate reality that Madera County residents already face.
In Monterey Park, 11 people were killed. In Half Moon Bay, seven more lost their lives.
“Remember upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.” — Alexander The Great
In the past year, the women and men who believe in protecting the ability of California’s hospitals to fulfill their mission of caring for the ill and injured made their voices heard.
Despite some scattered investments in health care amid an estimated $23 billion shortfall for the state, Gov. Newsom’s proposed 2023-24 budget comes up short for California’s patients and communities as hospitals struggle to cope with record losses, crippling inflation, and a nationwide workforce shortage.
California starts the new year with one fewer hospital.
“Someone once told me growth and comfort do not coexist. And I think it’s a really good thing to remember.” – Ginni Rometty, first woman to head IBM
Last week, shortly after state lawmakers were sworn in for the 2023 legislative session, Assembly member Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 40, which aims to reduce the time it takes to transfer patients arriving at hospitals via ambulance.
About a month ago, Orange County officials declared a health emergency due to the record numbers of pediatric hospitalizations and emergency room visits, driven by growing numbers of cases of respiratory syncytial virus. Similar levels of concern are being raised by public health officials in San Diego, Santa Clara, Los Angeles and other counties.