These are all resources that help hospitals do what they ’ re doing .”
Kaufman encourages people to visit their local hospitals when it is safe to do so . Those who do will realize what complicated organizations they are .
“ Hospitals are like little cities ,” he says . “ When you think about it , you are operating a facility that has to be ready 24 / 7 , 365 days a year no matter what ’ s going on — a blizzard , flood , earthquake , national disaster or pandemic .”
Addressing hospitals ’ financial problems will take a multiplepronged approach , according to Kaufman . As these organizations continue to try to make their budgets work , the WVHA will continue working with state and federal policymakers until they have the resources to provide the services they need . It will also help to educate the public , community and business leaders about hospital financing issues .
“ Our goal within the association is to work with our hospitals closely to support their efforts to make a healthier and stronger West Virginia ,” says Kaufman . “ We run data quality efforts and educational opportunities to really help improve their goals in their communities collectively , and we have spokespeople within the hospitals to help educate the general public , business leaders and policy leaders about the unique role hospitals play in the health care system . One of the things I always like to remind business leaders and policymakers about is , when you start thinking about attracting a family or a business to a community , some of the things they look for are what the hospitals are like , what services they offer and the quality of care . Not only are we providing those critical services — we are part of the critical infrastructure that helps make a community vibrant and strong .”
Kaufman has been inspired by the work that goes on at the Mountain State ’ s hospitals , despite the financial dilemmas they face , and particularly by the passion West Virginia health care workers have for their patients and communities .
“ I don ’ t think many people recognize the sacrifices that health care workers make ,” he says . “ We always talk about doctors and nurses , but it ’ s everyone in the hospital . It ’ s the plumber , the electrician , the construction worker and the security guard who are making it work . During this time , they are being asked to do unprecedented things , and they are doing them . That is truly amazing .” •