Hospital Expansion Needs Further Study
As a concerned citizen, I have questions regarding the proposed expansion/renovation at Ventura County Medical Center. It seems that there are serious aspects that should be carefully considered before approval is given by the County Board of Supervisors.
Has a study been done to determine if we need a county hospital? What is the occupancy rate at VCMC now? Will this facility become redundant under Clinton’s health care reform bill, leaving Venturans with a white elephant on Loma Vista? Is there an analysis of how health care reform would affect county hospitals?
Since there have been a lay-off of nurses and a shortening of staff hours at VCMC, who will staff the new addition? Will the proposed expansion generate adequate new revenue to pay for staffing? What would the cost be to renovate the existing facility? What about projected maintenance funds?
Have homeowners in the area obtained appraisals to determine the decline in property value due to the expansion? What is the projected loss?
Can the 70% state funds be used for any other purpose? Has an independent analysis of the VCMC budget been requested for review by the Board of Supervisors?
Reporting on these and other concerns is greatly needed so the public may be adequately informed.
Jeri Miller
Ventura
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