Newsroom

The HASD&IC Biweekly Briefing provides timely news and information for HASD&IC members and associates and is published on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Key articles and issues of interest from each publication, along with the President’s Message, are included below.

Embracing Heart Health with Awareness, Compassion and Connection 

My mom has Atrial fibrillation. I remember one morning a few years ago when her heart was racing. We didn’t know what was happening. I sat with her in the living room and her heart wasn’t slowing down. We were scared and rushed her to the emergency room where she was diagnosed. Now she’s on medication and the AFib is under control.  

5 Things To Know: Imperial County 2023-24 Community Survey; New Online Reporting Platform for San Diego County Adult Protective Services Referrals; Celebrating Black History; CHA’s Rural Health Care Symposium to Focus on Financial Sustainability; Seismic Strategy, and More

HCAI BEHAVIORAL HEALTH WORKFORCE GRANT PROGRAMS: Application cycles for the Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) Behavioral Health Workforce Grant programs open Feb. 9 and close May 8. Visit the HCAI website to learn more about the following programs:   Social Work Education Capacity Expansion Grant Program  Psychiatric Education Capacity Expansion Psychiatry Residency Grant […]

CHA Analysis Reveals How Insurer Practices Impede Patient Care

The California Hospital Association (CHA) has developed a detailed analysis of how insurance company practices negatively affect patients. It’s a key proof point supporting a comprehensive strategy to hold insurers accountable for patient care in California. One of CHA’s priorities this year is to create greater accountability (network adequacy, prior authorization, medical necessity, payment practices, parity) for insurers operating in California. The survey, conducted by CHA in 2023, saw significant response from California hospitals (many thanks to all who contributed). Broadly, the analysis reveals: 

Member Spotlight: Patrick Ziemer Named CEO of Alvarado Parkway Institute Behavioral Health System       

Patrick Ziemer returned to Alvarado Parkway Institute Behavioral Health System (API) as CEO on Jan. 1. Ziemer has been a passionate advocate for behavioral health with a career dating back over 30 years. Ziemer served as the CEO of API from January 2008 to April 2019. In 2019, he moved into the role of president and chief development officer at the corporate level to lead and develop other companies in API’s continuum of care, also serving as the CEO of 4 Front Pharmacy and the Jackson House facilities. 

Shining a Light on Human Trafficking in Our Region 

As we start the new year, I want to spotlight an issue that cuts across all social determinants of health and yet continues to be underrepresented and often misrepresented. January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. It’s a reminder that this pervasive problem affects millions around the world, and thousands in our own backyard.   

Associate Member Spotlight: BMG Money

BMG Money is a leading financial wellness provider that offers LoansAtWork and free financial literacy programs to alleviate the emotional stress and despair threatening employees.    LoansAtWork is a voluntary employee benefit that empowers health care organizations to assist their employees in avoiding high-interest loans that can pull them deeper into crisis. BMG Money helps employees […]

5 Things To Know: CDPH Launches New Opioid Resource Website, MSSP Waiver Renewal Application – 30-Day Public Comment Period, January Marks National Blood Donor Month, Urgent Need to Increase Immunization Coverage for COVID-19, Influenza, and RSV Immunizations, Office of Climate Change and Health Equity Launches Support Program

CDPH LAUNCHES NEW OPIOID RESOURCE WEBSITE: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) launched a new, comprehensive website on the opioid epidemic that gives Californians a single resource for prevention, data, treatment, and support. The website is part of Governor Gavin Newsom’s multi-pronged approach to connect Californians with information to prevent and reduce overdoses and […]

5 Things To Know: Point-In-Time Counts in January, CalAIM Community Supports Standardization, New Year Will Bring Expanded Medi-Cal Coverage, Dashboard on Race & Ethnicity, Children’s Behavioral Health Services Lack Timely Access

SAN DIEGO AND IMPERIAL COUNTIES WILL HOLD POINT-IN-TIME COUNTS IN JANUARY: In January 2024, San Diego County and Imperial County will each hold their annual Point-in-Time Count (PITC) of sheltered and unsheltered homeless individuals and families. The data inform the Department of Housing and Urban Development and help determine federal funding for homeless services and programs. To […]

CEO Messages

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