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

How Efficiency Checklists Help Hospitals Save Energy, Water and Money

Keith Edgerton explains how a simple, systematic tool can help healthcare facilities identify savings, support sustainability goals and reinvest in long-term decarbonization.


Designing with Heart: Seen Health Center Blends Cultural Warmth and Clinical Care

Case study: The Alhambra-based facility uses Wilsonart Woodgrains to create a space where comfort, tradition and durability come together for an elevated senior care experience.


Rutgers Health and University Hospital Breaks Ground on Campus Expansion

The groundbreaking follows the long-awaited demolition of administrative offices built in the 1970s.


What to Consider When Modernizing Healthcare Facilities

While there has been a call to preserve old buildings, healthcare facilities need to weigh the options of patient care.


Corewell Health Beaumont Troy Hospital to Build New Tower

The tower is expected to be completed in 2030.


 
 


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.