CEO Messages

It is an understatement to say we are experiencing uncertain times for the health care field, hospitals, and the patients we serve — and in particular, the threat of federal and state Medicaid funding cuts and the impact they could have. That’s why the Hospital Council Board of Directors meeting, which took place on April 1 in Sacramento, was an opportunity to help strengthen our collective response and build essential relationships among hospital leaders. Mutual support and communication are needed more than ever.  

Last week, Council Thoughts focused on the need for hospitals to build key allies across community, political, and economic sectors. This week, we turn to the other half of the picture: Hospitals must also look inward for partnership in a rapidly changing health care environment. More than ever, we must be one another’s allies.  

The word “ally” is both a noun and a verb, reminding us that true partnership is not just about who we are connected to, but about our shared goals — and the actions we take to support, strengthen, and advocate for one another.  

Rural hospitals work to bridge health disparities in underserved areas, particularly in communities with higher rates of chronic illness and lower socioeconomic status. California has roughly five dozen rural hospitals, including 37 critical access hospitals (CAHs) — rural hospitals that serve communities at least 35 miles from another medical facility. Unfortunately, many rural hospitals need more staffing and funding, the lack of which can threaten their ability to provide sustainable care and maintain facility improvements.   

February is Black History Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions and legacy of the Black community. While it is essential to uplift the voices of Black communities year-round, this month reminds us to reflect on the triumphs and struggles of those who have followed Ruth Janetta Temple, MD, in the fight for justice and equality.

On Jan. 27, the Hospital Council Board of Directors will finalize this year’s major areas of focus. Discussion topics will include efforts to reduce ambulance patient offload times in various areas throughout California, the potential reopening of Madera Community Hospital, the state and federal election impacts on hospitals, insurer accountability, and the importance of participating in the California Hospital Association Political Action Committee. 

As Hospital Council looks to the year ahead, our commitment to ensuring all Californians have access to reliable, quality health care remains the same. Our previous message focused on adapting to change, and while we cannot fully predict everything that will happen in the future, preparing for the new year is a good way to start.  

As we head into a new year, we want to take a moment to reflect on everything our hospital members have accomplished this past year. 2024 has shown us the importance of adapting to change, and one major unplanned challenge was an unprecedented fire season in the Hospital Council service area: Wildfires saw a nearly 240% increase from last year to this year (308,761 to 1,049,398 acres), according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).  

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, a holiday that serves as a reminder to express gratitude and spend time with loved ones. On behalf of our Hospital Council team, we want to take this time to honor our hospitals and all health care workers for their hard work and dedication. Their deep commitment to serving those in need is truly inspiring, and it echoes our mission of ensuring access to health care for all Californians.