As Thanksgiving swiftly approaches, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for your unwavering dedication and partnership. May this season bring joy, rest and meaningful reflection for you and your loved ones. Together, let’s embrace the opportunities of the coming year with purpose, collaboration and progress.
This year, your commitment to improving the health and well-being of our communities has been inspiring. From navigating the complexities of evolving health care policies to addressing workforce challenges and enhancing patient care, your persistence and innovation set a remarkable standard of excellence.
At HASC, we’re honored to support such a dynamic network of leaders. Together, we’ve reached milestones that not only strengthen our industry but also make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve. These achievements underscore the power of partnership and our shared sense of purpose.
2024 Achievements
As we close the year, I’d like to highlight some of our joint accomplishments:
- Advocacy Successes: HASC intensified local outreach efforts, engaging with local governments to defeat harmful initiatives. In Los Angeles County, we fought hard to minimize the negative impacts of a new medical debt ordinance. Our advocacy resulted in eliminating mandates for hospitals, such as publicly reporting financial assistance efforts.
- Opposing Harmful Measures: We successfully opposed union-led ballot measures that sought to impose a 3% gross receipts tax on hospitals.
- Securing Vital Funding: We secured $526.2 million in CalOptima reimbursement rate increases, including $250.5 million for hospitals and $28 million through the L.A. Care Hospital Quality Pool.
- Caring for the Unhoused: Through recuperative care services, the National Health Foundation generated cost savings for hospitals exceeding $17 million while providing care for over 1,400 guests.
- Addressing Workforce Challenges: Through the Communities Lifting Communities and HASC Diversity in Health Care Scholarship Program, we awarded over $30,000 to aspiring health professionals. We relaunched the Priority Workforce Job Portal, connecting 38 member hospitals with candidates and workforce development partners to help fill urgently needed roles. Additionally, HASC facilitated training for over 250 health care employees, helping them develop clearer career pathways.
These are just a few highlights from the many achievements we’ve accomplished together. As we look to the new year and its challenges, I hope you’ll take time to celebrate your successes, recognize the exceptional work of your teams, and recharge with your loved ones.
On behalf of the entire HASC team, thank you for your partnership and resilience. We wish you and your families a meaningful and joyous Thanksgiving.
Take care and stay safe.
George G.