Health Care District Month
In addition to the initiatives singled-out by ACHD, the Petaluma City Council officially declared May 2015 “Health Care District Month” in recognition of the essential role PHCD plays in Southern Sonoma County and acknowledging the importance of educating the community on its work, programs and services.
“As a community-owned and operated resource, every day we know well that our greatest strength is in working together to provide affordable, accessible and innovative health care solutions. While the accolades earned are surely flattering, the outcome we see every day at home here in Southern Sonoma County is the real reward,” added Faith. “In 2016 we plan on building on our success, while ensuring the long-term stability and financial wellness of the district, a task that includes making a community-driven decision regarding the future operator of Petaluma Valley Hospital.”
In 2015, PHCD and its board of directors continued to carry out a due diligence process to determine the best option for future operation of Petaluma Valley Hospital. PHCD’s 20-year lease with St. Joseph Health will end in 2017. Through a formal request for proposal process, thorough evaluations and community input, the district identified in October 2015 four potential operators: St. Joseph Health, Sutter Health, Prime Healthcare Services, and Strategic Global Management. PHCD is now in the process of collaborating with the community, seeking and incorporating input on prioritizing service offerings and final selection criteria that will inform its discussions and negotiations regarding future operation of the facility. Ultimately, the arrangement with the proposed operator will be submitted as a ballot measure for public vote.
About Petaluma Health Care District
The Petaluma Health Care District (PHCD) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the Southern Sonoma County community through leadership, advocacy, support, partnerships and education. Its vision is to foster a healthier community, a thriving hospital and local access to comprehensive health and wellness services. PHCD has served the health and wellness needs of the community for 70 years and is a public agency managed by the community for the community. For more information, please visit www.phcd.org.