Doctors Medical Center San Pablo Faces Shutdown From Lack Of Funding
SAN PABLO (KCBS)— A hospital with one of the largest emergency rooms in West Contra Costa County is running out of money and time. Doctors Medical Center San Pablo is facing closure this year if a solution isn't found.
While the situation isn't new, there are different factors at play this time. The medical facility is facing a projected budget deficit of $16 million.
"It's been a combination of decreased patient volume over time and decreased funding from the state. About 80 percent of the patients are Medicare and Medi-Cal patients, where the reimbursement rates are not enough to cover the cost of service," said County Supervisor John Gioia who sits on the West Contra Costa Healthcare District board.
Doctors Medical Center San Pablo Faces Shutdown From Lack Of Funding
"The closure of Doctor's Hospital would have tremendous negative impact on the emergency medical system here in the county, especially in West County. It would take longer to get emergency room care," he said.
According to Gioia, the hospital has received financial help over the years. He said officials are exploring a parcel tax and they're looking at affiliating with a larger healthcare system. If nothing pans out, the Doctors Medical Center will close later this year.
