Last week, the HASD&IC Board of Directors held its first meeting of the year. As with each new year, we welcomed new board members, who are helping us navigate the challenges and priorities facing hospitals in San Diego and Imperial counties.
At the meeting, the board received an overview of organizational and regional priorities and efforts, including updates on the Associate Member program, behavioral health, emergency medical services, the Community Health Needs Assessment, and hospital data collection during the annual Point in Time Count — along with a briefing on local advocacy and political action committee activities. The board also heard an update from California Hospital Association President & CEO Carmela Coyle.
Together, these discussions set the stage for the significant work ahead for the 2026 HASD&IC Board of Directors, which is chaired by Brett McClain, executive vice president and COO at Sharp HealthCare. The board begins 2026 facing a rapidly shifting landscape — from new behavioral health staffing ratios to mounting budget pressures at every level of government, as well as multiple ballot initiatives — all of which will impact hospitals’ stability and resilience. This talented and highly engaged group of leaders will be essential in guiding our hospitals and I am grateful for their leadership.
As HASD&IC’s board works together on these priorities, its collective expertise, regional insight, and commitment to collaboration will be instrumental. The challenges ahead are significant, but strong board leadership will help ensure that hospitals can continue their mission of caring for their communities.s — ensuring they remain a place where people, businesses, and health care can thrive.