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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When Kelly O’Connor was diagnosed with breast cancer, Scripps Cancer Center provided a multidisciplinary approach and innovative treatment to help her recover. Today, she’s passionate about helping others through their cancer journey.
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.
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.
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.