Tiffany Chung - Community Trends Assignment

            In order to gain a better understanding of the hospital trends happening in my community, I contacted Angela Chiu, a physical therapist at the Citrus Valley Health Partner Hospital in West Covina, a city in the Los Angeles County. Having worked at the hospital for many years, Chiu has noticed many trends that have not only affected her, but have affected those around her as well.

            First, she mentioned the effect of President Obama’s budget cuts. Because of this, there has been a cut down on the pay scale. Hospitals are no longer able to spend as much for certain services as they would have before. In order to compensate for the budget cuts, many hospitals are turning to laying-off employees. This experience, Chiu explained, has been a very difficult process for her co-workers and herself.

            Second, Chiu has noticed that many people are taking measures that they are trying not to pay for. For example, if someone is released from the hospital, and they go back within 30 days, for the same reason, the hospital will not be able to get paid for the second visit. Also, for the uninsured patients who go to the emergency room, looking for service, the hospital is obliged to provide help, even if they are not going to get paid. Patients are getting many benefits, while the hospital is getting nothing in return. These situations, and many other examples, are why hospitals are struggling to earn money during this time.

            Third, Chiu has noticed that hospitals are trying to be more cost effective.  Hospitals have been implementing different methods that do not cost as much money. She has noticed that the hospital she is working at has been getting equipment that is not as expensive. They are, however, just as effective. The hospital is just trying to find ways to save as much money as possible, while continuously being as successful as possible. Chiu has also realized that there has been a lot of restructuring going on—meaning the merging and elimination of different programs within the hospital.

            Fourth, it has been more difficult to get hired as a nurse. Previously, nurses had always in high demand. They were constantly sought for, and getting a job was not too difficult. That has changed, however. Chiu explained that hospitals are looking very hard for nurses who are competent. They are mainly looking for nurses who have had a lot of experience in the medical field. This makes it very difficult for up-and-coming nurses wanting to get a job.

            Lastly, because of all the cuts, hospitals are now trying to lobby in order to gain more benefits, Chiu explained. She said that the hospital she is working at right now is going through many problems. Therefore, lobbying is one way in order to be heard, and to bring forth change. The budget cuts have affected many people, and will continue to influence others if the trend keeps continuing. Letting the public know of their problems will help promote the adjustments the hospitals need.

            These current trends in the hospital all come from one source: budget cuts. It has affected many people in a very harsh way, and will continue to do so unless something is done to stop it.