Written by: Michele Wurl, Chief Public Relations Officer at Kittitas Valley Healthcare
Your access to high quality healthcare should not depend on where you choose to live. In the last decade, more than 100 rural hospitals in the U.S. have closed. Another 700, 30% of remaining rural hospitals, are at risk of closure. Many, many more have been acquired by multistate hospital systems, private equity firms, or other for-profit companies. Rural communities that lose their hospitals not only lose access to care, but they forfeit the economic vitality and many family-wage jobs. Rural communities that lose control of their local hospital find that governance, the ability to determine which services will be available, and how earnings will be reinvested are outsourced to national headquarters.
Washington state is unique for the number of independent, community hospitals that continue to serve rural residents. That’s because fifty-six communities in Washington State take advantage of a WWII-era statute that allows for the creation of Public Hospital Districts (PHDs). These communities made a choice and investment to keep quality care local. Residents of Ellensburg made that choice in 1960 when they voted to form Kittitas County Public Hospital District 1, now operating at Kittitas Valley Healthcare (KVH). In 1969, Upper County voted to form Kittitas County Public Hospital District 2. For sixty years, KVH has been on the forefront of protecting Kittitas County’s community health. As the only hospital in Kittitas County, KVH is responsible for the well-being of over 44,000 residents who call this valley home and for the millions of visitors who pass through. Hospital District 2 operates the Medic One ambulance service, providing the only licensed advanced life support paramedics to all Upper Kittitas County, from Snoqualmie Pass to Elk Heights.
Back in 1960, the hospital was the hospital, and primary care was provided by small, private practices scattered around the hospital and throughout the community. Today most physicians choose to become employees of hospitals, health systems, or large groups, and Kittitas County is no different. Like the rest of the country, we grapple with healthcare access. This shortage is worse in rural areas and undermines the well-being of rural residents. Public hospital districts stand as unique champions for community-centric healthcare and prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. As nonprofit organizations, every dollar earned goes to answer the needs of the community. By pooling resources and leveraging community partnerships, these districts bridge healthcare gaps, ensuring that essential services are within reach for all residents. Moreover, they foster a sense of ownership and accountability, empowering communities to shape their healthcare futures.
The governing board of a public hospital district is elected by the district’s residents. These elected board members are responsible for the oversight of the operations of PHDs. The board is responsible for strategic direction, setting policies, approving budgets, and representing the interests of the community in healthcare matters. Board members uphold the principles of accountability and stewardship. Throughout this process, transparency, public participation, and adherence to legal requirements are crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of the publicly elected board.
Public hospital districts make a tangible contribution to the community’s health and economic vitality. PHDs tailor programs and services to address the unique healthcare needs of the residents, from preventive care to specialized treatments. By fostering partnerships with local providers and organizations, the district can create a robust healthcare ecosystem that fosters wellness and resilience.
The benefits of a public hospital district extend far beyond the realm of healthcare. By bolstering the local economy and attracting skilled healthcare professionals, it spurs economic growth and job creation, laying the groundwork for a thriving community.
From May 12 to 18, communities around the country are celebrating Hospital Week, when we honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of hospitals and healthcare workers to their communities. This is an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the dedication, compassion, and hard work of healthcare professionals. These individuals, including doctors, nurses, technicians, administrators, and support staff, play a vital role in delivering quality care and saving lives every day.
Hospital Week is also a time to thank our community for creating Kittitas County’s two hospital districts. On behalf of the healthcare professionals and staff, I extend heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. We recognize and appreciate the trust you have placed in us as we work towards the shared goal of enhancing healthcare delivery and promoting wellness for all. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for the people of Kittitas County.