FAQs
City of Alameda Healthcare District (CAHCD) FAQ
What is the City of Alameda Healthcare District?
The City of Alameda Healthcare District (CAHCD) is a public entity responsible for overseeing healthcare services in the Alameda community. In addition to managing the main Alameda Hospital campus, the District operates skilled nursing and rehabilitation units and outpatient services, all located within Alameda. These facilities provide a range of health services to meet the community's diverse needs, ensuring comprehensive care beyond the hospital itself.
The District owns or leases property for 171 skilled nursing facility beds across three locations, including 35 subacute beds for chronically impaired residents, many of whom are ventilator-dependent. It also holds a lease for the Creedon Wound Care Center in Alameda, offering multidisciplinary care for wound patients, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
What is the relationship between CAHCD and the Alameda Health System (AHS)?
The City of Alameda Healthcare District (CAHCD) and Alameda Health System (AHS) operate under a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA). AHS operates Alameda Hospital, which is owned by AHCD, managing operations, licensure, governance, and finances, while AHCD provides support and input. Together, they aim to maintain Alameda Hospital as a vital healthcare resource for Alameda County residents.
What is the Alameda Healthcare District responsible for?
CAHCD owns the Alameda Hospital buildings and is responsible for their maintenance, structural integrity, and seismic safety compliance. The District ensures that Alameda Hospital can continue serving the community by maintaining infrastructure and meeting state regulations.
Why does Alameda Hospital need seismic upgrades?
Following the 1994 Northridge earthquake, California passed a law requiring hospitals to upgrade or replace their buildings to meet safety standards by 2030. These standards ensure hospitals can continue providing critical care during and after earthquakes. Alameda Hospital must comply with these standards to remain operational and serve the community.
What will the seismic upgrade project involve?
The seismic upgrade has two main components:
- Seismic Retrofits: All buildings will be retrofitted to meet 2030 standards, ensuring safety and functionality during earthquakes. Estimated cost: $28.9 million.
- Operational Upgrades: A South Wing area will be upgraded into an 18-bed high-intensity skilled nursing unit, providing specialized care for severely ill patients needing skilled nursing. Estimated cost: $25.1 million.
How is the seismic upgrade being funded?
CAHCD is funding the $54 million seismic and operational upgrade project by issuing Certificates of Participation (COPs), similar to tax-exempt bonds. COPs will be issued in two phases: $13.5 million in August 2024 and $41.5 million in December 2025.
Will the emergency department or other critical services be affected during upgrades?
No, the emergency department and other critical services at Alameda Hospital will remain open and fully operational throughout the seismic upgrade project. The goal is to ensure these essential services remain available, especially in emergencies.
When will the seismic upgrades be completed?
The upgrades are scheduled for completion by 2028, allowing Alameda Hospital to meet the 2030 seismic standards while continuing uninterrupted service to the community.
Why is CAHCD committed to these upgrades?
The seismic upgrades, mandated by the state, secure the hospital for future use. CAHCD is committed to ensuring Alameda Hospital remains a safe, reliable facility. By meeting safety standards and upgrading facilities, the District is investing in the long-term health and safety of the Alameda community.
How can the community stay informed about the seismic upgrades?
CAHCD will provide regular updates on the seismic upgrades through its website ([link here]) and community newsletters. Residents are encouraged to visit the website frequently for the latest news and information about the project.
Will emergency surgeries continue to be performed at Alameda Hospital?
Yes, emergency surgeries will continue. AHS is committed to ensuring high quality and safety for all surgical care at Alameda Hospital.
Do any other AHS hospitals need seismic upgrades?
Yes, seismic upgrades are also underway at San Leandro Hospital and the Wilma Chan Highland Hospital Campus to meet the 2030 standards.