CEO Messages

With federal activity top of mind, the Hospital Council Board of Directors met this week to discuss priority issues for hospitals across Northern California. 

“With all due respect, sir, I believe this is going to be our finest hour.”

Gene Kranz, Chief Flight Director, Apollo 13

“Don’t try to drive the homeless into places we find suitable. Help them survive in places they find suitable.”  

Daniel Quinn (Author)  

The past few weeks have been undeniably tough for hospitals not only in Northern & Central California, but throughout California and nationwide.

“I believe in hope. I also believe in the power of hard work.” — Ted Lasso

As hospitals face some of the greatest challenges in our long history, there is strength in unity — and a critical need for action. While the California Hospital Association continues its advocacy at both the state and federal levels, Hospital Council is doing its part to amplify hospital voices — ensuring lawmakers understand, in real and local terms, the devastating impact Medicaid cuts would have on the delivery of health care to all Californians. 

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.