Public health plays an essential role in the well-being of San Diego communities — not only by responding in times of crisis, but by building systems that help people live healthier, more secure lives every day. As our region continues to face urgent and complex health challenges, San Diego County has a new voice at the helm: Newly appointed San Diego County Public Health Officer Sayone Thihalolipavan, MD, MPH.
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when all who are committed to helping those living with mental health conditions can pause to reflect on the meaning of their work. This is also a time for us to continue fostering greater awareness, empathy, and understanding for those in need of care.
In less than two months, San Diego County will hold a special general election for a vacant seat in the county’s First Supervisorial District for the remainder of the current term.
Next week, health care leaders throughout the San Diego region will join to honor and celebrate the women and men who give selflessly to support hospitals.
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the American College of Healthcare Executives Congress on Healthcare Leadership in Houston, Texas, alongside more than 7,000 colleagues from across the country. It was an incredible opportunity to connect, reflect, and look ahead in the ever-evolving health care landscape. Amid the daily demands of our work, this gathering provided a moment to pause and appreciate what we have accomplished at HASD&IC and with our regional partners — while also acknowledging the work still ahead to ensure all Californians have access to reliable, high-quality care.
As Southern California residents continue to face increased financial pressures, the demand for behavioral health services has grown significantly. With hospitals also under financial duress, it is becoming more challenging to meet the needs of those who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. But with hospitals also under financial duress — 53% of all hospitals statewide lose money every day to deliver patient care — it is becoming more challenging to meet the needs of those who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. At HASD&IC, we understand that behavioral health has a lasting impact on the entire health care system, evidenced by behavioral health being elevated to a top HASD&IC board priority by both the community and our hospitals.
Hospitals play a vital role in maintaining the fabric of our community by working 24/7 to care for patients. In doing so, they understand the importance of caring for those outside the walls of hospital buildings. At HASD&IC, one of the most important ways we engage with our community is through the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The process for the latest CHNA, which began last year, was guided by a deep commitment to listening, understanding, and uplifting community voices. Our initial research is now complete, and the CHNA Committee is currently reviewing the final 2025 CHNA report.
As we commemorate Black History Month, we honor the significant contributions of Black Americans to our nation’s history and culture. This observance is also an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment as health care leaders to addressing persistent health disparities affecting communities of color, particularly with maternal and infant health in our region.
The new year is already in full swing, and 2025 promises to be a pivotal one for health care in our region. From legislative shifts to evolving community needs, the landscape is changing — bringing both challenges and opportunities. This year, HASD&IC will focus on strengthening the continuum of care, addressing critical legislative developments, and fostering collaborative partnerships that drive impact. Here is a look at the key initiatives shaping our work in the year ahead.
As we watch Los Angeles continue to battle devasting wildfires, our thoughts and support are with our neighboring communities. We can truly empathize — the harrowing scenes in Los Angeles evoke memories of the 2003 Cedar Fire that ravaged San Diego County.
