How AltaMed Health Services Boosted the Economy with $15.1 Billion Impact in Southern California

AltaMed's Impact on Southern California's Economy

In a comprehensive report recently unveiled by AltaMed, the largest Federally Qualified Health Center in the United States, it was revealed that the organization generated a staggering $15.1 billion in economic impact from 2019 to 2024. This data underscores the vital role of health services in fostering thriving communities and local economies. With their recent efforts serving over 700,000 patients in 2025 alone, AltaMed stands at the nexus of healthcare equity and economic empowerment.

A Deep Dive into the Findings

According to the report, the overall economic contribution of AltaMed has seen remarkable growth over the years — jumping from $1.08 billion in 2019 to an expected $4.24 billion by the end of 2025. This substantial increase signals that every dollar spent by AltaMed has a multiplier effect, generating no less than $1.50 in additional economic activity in the region. This correlation between healthcare provision and economic stability is particularly evident as AltaMed supports between 10,000 and 12,000 jobs throughout Southern California.

“Investing in community health leads to stronger, resilient economies,” noted Zoila D. Escobar, President of the AltaMed Foundation. Her statement encapsulates the essence of the report, emphasizing that each health visit and job created reverberates through the community.

The findings reveal significant household spending that resulted from jobs supported by AltaMed, amounting to $3.25 billion. Additionally, over $320 million has been invested in capital projects, further driving the local economy. The comprehensive impact includes a remarkable indirect economic effect of $3.9 billion, stemming from local vendors and suppliers benefitting from AltaMed's operations. These figures illustrate the intertwined relationship between healthcare access and economic growth.

Accessibility and Opportunity

Stephen Cheung, President and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, affirmed that institutions like AltaMed are key to fostering inclusive economic growth. By providing preventive healthcare services while simultaneously creating thousands of job opportunities, AltaMed cultivates a self-sustaining cycle that engages the entire community in the struggle for better health and prosperity.

Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, echoed the sentiments in the report, stating that community health centers like AltaMed are essential to fueling the economy by creating quality jobs and uplifting local businesses. This perspective portrays AltaMed not just as a healthcare provider but as an economic pillar sustaining the region's health and financial stability.

Dr. David E. Hayes-Bautista, a distinguished professor at UCLA, highlighted the idea that a healthy workforce translates to a productive workforce. He pointed out that AltaMed’s role extends beyond individual patient care; it supports the broader regional economy by ensuring that health needs are met.

A Focus on Community-Centered Care

Dr. David Carlisle, President and CEO of Charles Drew University, pointed to the importance of culturally competent care in reducing disparities in health outcomes. By understanding and addressing the unique needs of their patient population, AltaMed models community-based care that not only treats diseases but also promotes overall public health.

These findings from the economic impact report are eye-opening; investing in community-rooted health services, as AltaMed does, is crucial for building a resilient and equitable society in California. Every dollar invested in preventive care can lead to savings of $2-$10, showcasing the long-term benefits of prioritizing health in budgetary considerations.

The report, thus, serves as a clarion call for ongoing investment in community health services, underscoring their pivotal role in enhancing public health and driving economic success. With a future-oriented approach, AltaMed continues to commit to improving the health of communities and contributing to local economies, shaping a better future for Southern California.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the latest report by AltaMed reinforces the intrinsic connection between health services and economic vitality in Southern California. As communities work together to overcome health disparities and financial challenges, organizations like AltaMed illustrate the profound impact of healthcare investment on the overall well-being of society. For more details on their mission and findings, visit www.altamed.org.