Healthcare District CEO discusses Measure X and new facilities

Tehachapi Healthcare District CEO Caroline Wasielewski was the lunch speaker at the Tehachapi Rotary Club on Sept. 8.

Wasielewski, who is a member of the club, explained what the Healthcare District does and how it relates to Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley hospital. The mission of the Healthcare District is, "to promote and improve the quality of life and healthcare services to the community," said Wasielewski.

Her presentation described a brief history of the Healthcare District from the building of the old hospital, which opened in 1957, to the building of the new hospital, which opened in 2018. She also discussed the 30-year lease agreement with Adventist Health to operate the hospital and its three outpatient clinics.

The District, while remaining a partner with Adventist, is planning to build a new Community Resource Center on the site of the old hospital on E Street and Curry Street that had to be removed due to seismic and health concerns. The Center would contain a large area for seminars, receptions and conferences as well as small offices and classrooms for community groups, catering facilities, a community garden, cooling center and computer areas. The new Resource Center would become a hub for information on emergency services, public education and disaster preparedness. The District also partners with other community organizations like Rotary, Salvation Army, Houchin Blood Bank and #Lovetehachapi to provide programs focused on health, nutrition and wellness.

As owner of the hospital building located at 1100 Megellan Drive, TVHD approved the construction of the new Imaging Pavilion, the solar panel installation and a new 30-year lease with Adventist that will be on the November ballot as Measure X. Adventist Health has proposed building a new Outpatient Pavilion to be located at the District's current hospital. This new building would provide primary care, specialty care, behavioral health and dental services to the community. In return, Adventist has asked for a new 30 year lease of the hospital. A "yes" vote for Measure X on our November ballot will approve the new 30-year lease of the hospital, the three outpatient clinics and the new outpatient pavilion. The District will continue to own the real property and facilities and oversee compliance with the affiliation and lease agreements. There are no public monetary obligations associated with this measure.

For more information about Measure X you can check out the District's website http://www.tvhd.org for updates, meeting agendas and minutes. You will also have an opportunity to complete a Community Health Needs Assessment.

The Rotary Club of Tehachapi is a volunteer service organization with the motto, "Service Above Self." The club meets on Thursdays at noon. For more information about Rotary Club, you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RotaryClubofTehachapi/ or contact club President Paul Kaminski, (661) 699-5851.