New Study Reveals White Memorial Hospitals Generate $1.2 Billion Economic Activity Amid Healthcare Challenges in L.A.

New Economic Study: The Impact of White Memorial Hospitals

In recent findings, Adventist Health White Memorial and Adventist Health White Memorial Montebello have been shown to significantly contribute to the economy with over $1.2 billion in annual economic activity. The study, conducted by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC), emphasizes the hospitals’ critical roles as healthcare providers, employers, and community pillars amid growing pressures in the Los Angeles healthcare safety net.

Economic Contributions and Employment

The two hospitals together support approximately 5,500 jobs within Los Angeles County, catering to the healthcare needs of over 2.4 million residents in both their primary and secondary service areas. Daniel Fontoura, president of Adventist Health White Memorial, expressed that the findings underscore the hospital's deep integration and commitment to the communities they serve. "This study quantifies what we observe daily; our impact starts with providing compassionate, quality healthcare but extends far beyond that. Protecting this infrastructure is crucial for the health and well-being of our communities for generations to come," he stated.

Pressures on Healthcare Safety Net

The timing of this study is pivotal, considering that around 86% of Adventist Health White Memorial's patient payers rely on Medi-Cal and Medicare. The communities served by these hospitals already experience significant barriers to accessing healthcare, with a staggering 14.4% of residents uninsured, almost double the Los Angeles County average of 7.6%. Paul Young, Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy at the Hospital Association of Southern California, noted, "Community hospitals like Adventist Health White Memorial are essential parts of our healthcare safety net, providing reliable care close to home and ensuring that underserved communities are not left behind."

Broader Economic Impact

The influence of these hospitals extends beyond healthcare—they also invigorate the regional economy through their purchasing decisions, employee spending, and local business support. Maria S. Salinas, president and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that "Adventist Health White Memorial's hospitals support thousands of jobs and generate economic activity that strengthens local businesses and benefits families throughout Los Angeles County. Strong healthcare institutions help build strong communities, a thriving workforce, and a more resilient regional economy."

Call for Community Support

To maintain access to healthcare services and community investment, Adventist Health White Memorial Foundation is reaching out to philanthropic partners, community leaders, and stakeholders. Juan De La Cruz, president of the foundation, commented, "Protecting our communities is a shared responsibility. Together, we can safeguard access to medical care while building a stronger, more resilient region."

Conclusion

Adventist Health White Memorial and Adventist Health White Memorial Montebello are nonprofit, faith-based hospitals dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care throughout Los Angeles County. Combined, they maintain over 545 licensed beds and offer various services, including inpatient care, outpatient services, emergency treatment, diagnostics, and specialties.

The LAEDC study elucidates the hospitals' economic and fiscal impact and stresses the dire need for ongoing support to address the healthcare challenges faced by local communities, ensuring that the critical access to healthcare remains available for all.