Community Care

About Community Care

Hospitals work 24/7 to care for patients. In doing so they understand the importance of caring for communities outside the walls of hospital buildings. The social determinants of health — conditions often dictated by where people live, learn, work, play, worship, and age — all have a huge effect on a community’s health. They can significantly affect a patient’s health risks and outcomes. Hospitals recognize and work hard to address these conditions with a focus on eliminating disparities in care delivery and health outcomes through education, community benefit programs, and more.

5 Things To Know: New Fair Housing Rights Virtual Training Offered 

This region’s 2025 Annual Point-in-Time Count (PITC) events are taking place at the end of January, and volunteer registration for each is open. Imperial County’s PITC, run by the Imperial Valley Continuum of Care Council, is happening Jan. 24-25; it is followed by San Diego County’s PITC on Jan. 30, conducted by the Regional Task […]

5 Things To Know: City of San Diego Seeks to Close Digital Divide

The city of San Diego is conducting a community survey to improve internet accessibility and affordability for all residents. Anyone with or without home internet can participate in the survey, which takes 6-8 minutes to complete, and individuals without home internet service can answer relevant questions. All responses will be kept confidential. 

5 Things To Know: Community Outreach Opportunity at Food Distribution Sites

Many facing food insecurity also need help with housing, education, health care, workforce development, and family support. In that vein, outreach organizations are invited to be considered for potential partnership by completing the Community Cares Program interest form. Partnership could include attending San Diego Food Bank distributions and conducting community outreach to individuals and families […]

5 Things To Know: CMS Requires Patient Reclassification Notices in February 2025

Beginning Feb. 14, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will require that hospitals give “Observation Change of Status Notices” to patients who are reclassified from inpatient to observation (outpatient) status. CMS has issued updated information on the new requirements for communication to affected patients. For more information, refer to the CHA News article.   

5 Things To Know: San Diego County CAP Survey Closes Nov. 10

San Diego County’s Community Action Partnership (CAP) empowers economically disadvantaged communities and their residents to achieve the vision of Live Well San Diego, which aligns efforts across sectors to help all county residents live well and thrive, though primarily targets very low-income families. CAP services are driven by community needs assessments that include feedback from […]

Hospitals Play an Important Role in Helping the Hungry

Imagine being hungry and unable to afford food, or having to choose between buying groceries for your family or paying for medication to treat a chronic condition. Or perhaps having to decide between buying healthy fruits and vegetables or cheap processed foods for your kids. These are daily dilemmas for millions of people across California, including in San Diego and Imperial counties.

Take the 2025 CHNA Survey and Help Shape the Future of Community Health

Hospitals are part of the fabric of the community, uniquely positioned to support residents’ health and social needs. To do this effectively, they must have a comprehensive understanding of the health challenges and resources needed in San Diego. That is why the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) is such an essential tool — and with your help, we can ensure that our community partners and the communities we serve have the opportunity to share their perspectives.  

5 Things To Know: San Diego County Plans to Transition January Storm Victims to Long-Term Housing

San Diego County, the city of San Diego’s Housing Commission, and the National City Housing Authority have agreed on plans to help residents affected by the January storms to transition out of the county’s Emergency Temporary Lodging program to longer-term housing solutions. This program currently supports over 1,500 people by providing temporary housing, food, and access to mental health services.