President's Message

Navigating the Impact of Hurricanes on Hospital Operations

Our hearts go out to Floridians and those in surrounding areas grappling with the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene, and more recently, Hurricane Milton. At the same time, HASC continues to monitor recovery efforts, and all impacts related to health care — even here at home.

In late September, Baxter International’s North Carolina plant, one of the largest suppliers of IV fluids in the U.S, shut down due to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. This closure has severely affected hospitals across the country, limiting supplies for lifesaving services. As Baxter supplies nearly 60% of the country’s IV fluids, this shortage has left many hospital leaders concerned about access to crucial supplies to maintain the same level of operations at their facilities.

HASC remains in close collaboration with the California Hospital Association to advocate for hospitals’ needs and address emerging concerns. On the national front, the American Hospital Association is calling on the Biden administration to implement flexible measures to help alleviate the impacts of the shortage.

Just as hospitals did during the COVID-19 pandemic, we strongly encourage all facilities to submit supply requests through their county’s Medical and Health Operational Area Coordinator (MHOAC). This process helps ensure that hospital needs are effectively communicated at the state level.

State of the Hospitals in Ventura County and Honoring Our Heroes

This Friday, HASC will have the opportunity to engage Ventura County residents, community leaders, and health care and public health professionals at our inaugural State of the Hospitals event.

Attendees will hear from renowned UC Santa Barbara economist Peter Rupert, PhD, about the crucial role of economic development in the region and its significant impact on hospitals and health care. They’ll also gain insights from key health care leaders and learn about how hospitals contribute to economic growth, medical innovations, challenges hospitals are facing and community well-being in the region.

We’re also excited to host our second annual My SoCal Hospital Heroes Gala on Nov. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Sheraton Grand in downtown Los Angeles. HASC launched the event last year to honor the exceptional work of health care professionals across the region. We look forward to a night of celebrating your heroic team members and their outstanding contributions to health care.

Take care and stay safe.

George G.