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.
Newsroom
5 Things To Know: CDPH to Hold Public Hearing on Proposed Regulations for Clinical Laboratory, Dietetic, and Pharmaceutical Services
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has published an All Facilities Letter announcing a virtual public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to regulations related to clinical laboratory, dietetic, and pharmaceutical services at general acute care hospitals. The hearing will take place Sept. 12 from 2-3 p.m. (PT); registration is available online.
5 Things To Know: Free Course for Social Workers: Supporting Older Adults Experiencing Homelessness
The Homeless and Housing Resource Center has developed a free virtual course highlighting the unique challenges faced by older adults experiencing homelessness, with a focus on individuals with substance use disorders or serious mental illness. The course also shares individuals’ personal experiences with homelessness and the experiences of those who work with older adults experiencing homelessness. The National Association of Social Workers has accredited this course for two continuing education units.
5 Things To Know: Feedback on County of San Diego’s Legislative Program Due Oct. 6
To help frame its advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels, San Diego County develops an annual legislative program to outline policy directives and legislative priorities. The program covers a range of issues that could significantly impact county operations and budget, as well as the communities it serves, and provides a roadmap for county advocacy activity. Potential topics for 2025 include affordable housing, climate change, homelessness, equity and justice, public health, and safety.
5 Things To Know: CARE Court Holds First Graduation Ceremony
San Diego County’s Behavioral Health Services and Public Defender departments, Superior Court, and other partners are celebrating an inspiring milestone for the Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act program (better known as CARE Court): On Aug. 7, CARE Court held its first graduation ceremony.
5 Things To Know: Resources Address Upcoming Changes to Definition of “Gravely Disabled”
The Jewish Family Service Patient Advocacy Program has released a new resource to help community organizations understand changes to the Lanterman-Petris-Short Act that will take effect Jan. 1. Under Senate Bill 43, which was signed into law in October 2023, the definition of “gravely disabled” is expanded to include individuals with severe substance use disorders. The resource includes a short video as well as contact info for organizations that wish to schedule a training on this topic.
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.
5 Things To Know: DHCS Adds New Resources on Proposition 1
Earlier this month, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) shared new resources about its Behavioral Health Transformation work, including updated fact sheets, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and other materials. Behavioral Health Transformation is an effort that will implement Proposition 1 and builds on other major behavioral health initiatives in California.
5 Things To Know: HQI to Host Hospital Workplace Violence Virtual Forum
The Hospital Quality Institute (HQI) invites individuals leading and supporting hospital efforts to eliminate workplace violence to register for a virtual forum on Aug. 29 at noon (PT). The event will include discussion on establishing hospital-based programs of peer support aimed at providing emotional first aid to staff who have been affected by workplace violence.
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 Recognized for Medi-Cal Call Responsiveness
The Children’s Partnership, a California advocacy organization advancing child health equity through research, policy, and community engagement, commissioned WestGroup Research to survey county Medi-Cal call lines in more than 30 counties. Their research found that Medi-Cal enrollees in some counties were forced to wait up to 90 minutes to get assistance, leading to many abandoned calls and possibly a loss of Medi-Cal coverage for those seeking assistance. San Diego County was highlighted for providing strong customer service, with an average hold time of just under one minute. This outstanding customer service supports San Diego residents’ ability to maintain health coverage and access the care they need.
