As COVID cases and hospitalizations continue to steadily drop in Southern California, concerns loom about the infectious BA.2 Omicron subvariant, which has become the dominant strain in the US. Some public health leaders attribute the declining trend in cases to vaccine uptake and natural immunity, however, many also warn of a potential uptick as early as this spring. The questions of timing and severity of the next wave are unknown, but there is one constant: continued collaboration with our members and partners will position our hospitals to confront the next phase.
With much of the region — and country — loosening restrictions and shifting focus away from the pandemic, HASC remains on alert with respect to local issues, outside of or beyond COVID, that may also negatively impact hospitals. Fortunately, the issue of Ambulance Patient Offload Delays (APOD) has markedly improved. This is a result of not only a decrease in hospitalizations but also the unparalleled multiagency coordination and diligent work of hospitals to reduce offload times.
This week, we recognized Doctors’ Day for the selfless dedication, sacrifices and tremendous efforts doctors make to put people first. Hospitals are more than physical structures and lifesaving equipment — they are centers for healing, and we entrust our loved ones in the hands of beloved doctors, clinicians and support staff. On behalf of HASC, I’d like to express gratitude for their courageous work, and thank the hospitals that facilitate the betterment of communities.
The arrival of spring serves as a reminder that the HASC 2022 Annual Meeting is just around the corner. We’re eager to meet in person, host meaningful presentations and facilitate discussions to help guide us as we emerge stronger on The Path Forward. We have a fantastic lineup of speakers that will explore the topics of resilience, compassion, courage and strategies to engage teams. We’ve also arranged a host of breakout speakers to examine some of the priority issues confronting our hospitals today, and beyond. Our premier event would not be possible without the generosity of our valued partners and sponsors, who recognize the importance of coming together to strengthen the health care community in Southern California. I encourage you to register as early as possible and be sure to book your hotel room as they are likely to sell out. We look forward to seeing you there.
“Take care and stay safe.
George G.
