Hospitals’ preparations come as three major utility companies plan to cut power in large areas of the state when conditions could be conducive to wildfires. One such company, Pacific Gas & Electric, is aiming to give communities 48 hours’ notice before a blackout.
California law requires hospitals to have backup generators for critical care operations. However, the threat of prolonged blackouts may complicate treatment for patients who require ventilators or home dialysis.
Chico, Calif.-based Enloe Medical Center has run emergency drills tailored for power outages. Facilities management director Bill Seguine said the drills helped leaders realize they also needed a generator for their office staff to access medical records and contact patients about rescheduling appointments or procedures. The hospital has also asked Pacific Gas & Electric to notify leaders about power outages in outpatient offices it leases in other buildings.
To view KHN‘s full article, click here.
More articles on patient flow:
Pittsburgh hospitals disrupted by online hate crime threat
Hundreds of patients are stuck in Washington hospitals despite lack of medical need
Beaumont hospital sees 272% spike in patients with suicidal thoughts
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
