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

Silent Undercount: HAI Deaths Are Far Higher Than Reported

Several critical factors help explain inaccurate data on deaths from healthcare-associated infections.


Ground Broken on Cleveland Clinic Avon Hospital Expansion Project in Ohio

The expansion is expected to be completed in 2029.


Tennessee Oncology Opens New Tullahoma Medical Center

The 33,000-square-foot center brings together medical oncology, radiation oncology and imaging services under one roof.


Rethinking Carpeting's Role in Senior Care Facilities

New research from the Carpet and Rug Institute finds that carpet supports healthier indoor environments.


Parkview Health Breaks Ground on New Hospital in West Lafayette, IN

The hospital is scheduled to open in June 2028.


 
 


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.