After World War II, California passed the Health Care District Act to allow communities to create special districts to construct and operate hospitals, develop other healthcare facilities, and offer programs to meet health needs of local communities. This law establishes a 5-member publicly-elected Board of Directors to see that healthcare is provided for all District residents. The District Board makes policy decisions on land, finances, building and construction, healthcare policy, healthcare offerings, and alliances. It also raises funds to help subsidize community hospital and healthcare services.

Who Manages the District?

District Directors are elected from the public at large to 4-year terms. Directors debate issues and make policy decisions. District Directors hire a CEO who manages business affairs, hires staff, and negotiates contracts. The Marin Healthcare District Board recently hired Lee Domanico. He is responsible for managing the transition of MGH back to District control.

Who Serves on Healthcare District Boards?

Much like County Supervisors and other generally elected officials, Healthcare District Boards are intended to be filled by the public at large. District Board directors reflect a wide array of industries, vocations and market sectors, and typically represent a broad diversity of professions, experience and education. Other healthcare district board directors in California include dentists, bank executives, health consultants, physicians, technology executives, and local entrepreneurs.

Why is an Independent District Hospital Important?

District hospitals have a uniquely democratic mission. They are mandated to promote the health of all residents — regardless of income, religion, race/ethnicity, or insurance coverage. County hospitals traditionally serve the poor. University hospitals have a teaching mission. Hospitals operated by HMOs serve their members. Non-profit or sectarian hospitals may limit the populations they treat, and investor hospitals must meet stockholder demands for profit. By contrast, District hospitals are mandated to treat ALL residents of their community. This uniquely inclusive mission has created excellent healthcare institutions that provide quality care and are much loved by their communities.