California blackouts shine light on healthcare system's vulnerability

Healthcare today is built on the assumption of steady power


A survey during a recent power outage in California revealed that only 44 percent of the state’s community health centers have a back-up energy source, according to an article on the Direct Relief website.

Even clinics that had back-up generators found they didn’t provide enough power to operate all their systems. 

Modern healthcare is almost entirely dependent on availability of electricity. For instance, electronic health records means little or no patient health information may be available if local power or data transmission fail.

Plus, 97 percent of health centers have medications on site requiring refrigeration. 

Read the article.



October 25, 2019


Topic Area: Energy and Power


Recent Posts

The Role of Positive Distraction in Pediatric Design

Positive distraction by itself does not heal, but it can aid the healing process by addressing the mental well-being of an individual.


Healthcare Waste is Fueling America's Debt

As healthcare spending surpasses $5 trillion annually, facility leaders are under pressure to confront operational inefficiencies head-on.


Prairie Lakes Healthcare System to Rebrand Following Sanford Health Merger

The transition of name and branding will occur in phases beginning in late June and is part of the “Together for Good” journey.


How Digital Technologies Are Reshaping Performance in Healthcare Facilities

AI can hyper-optimize hospital operations, change the patient experience and make data-driven intelligence a foundation of hospital design.


The Role of Plumbing in Healthcare-Associated Infections

Water and plumbing systems are a dangerous source of pathogens and bacteria, so the CDC has created a set of guidelines to develop a proper water management program.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.