San Joaquin General Hospital secures $995K for staffing agreement with Bolt Staffing Services

During the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 8, 2025, a significant decision was made regarding staffing at San Joaquin General Hospital. The board approved a retroactive increase in the agreement with Bolt Staffing Services, allowing for supplemental staffing through June 30, 2025, with a total cost of $995,000.

Rick Castro, CEO of San Joaquin General Hospital, addressed the board, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the healthcare sector. He noted that during the pandemic, many healthcare workers left their positions, prompting the hospital to contract with Bolt Staffing Services to fill gaps, particularly among lower-paid staff such as environmental services and dietary personnel.

Castro emphasized the competitive landscape for healthcare staffing, pointing out that major healthcare providers like CommonSpirit, Tenet, Sutter, and Kaiser have raised their minimum wage to $25 an hour. This increase has made it more difficult for San Joaquin General Hospital to attract and retain staff, underscoring the urgent need for additional support through staffing agencies.

The decision to approve the funding aims to address these staffing shortages and ensure that the hospital can continue to provide essential services to the community. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the board's actions reflect a commitment to maintaining quality care for residents of San Joaquin County.

In addition to the staffing discussion, the meeting included other topics, but the focus on healthcare staffing stood out as a pressing issue that directly impacts the community's access to medical services. The board's decision is a step towards stabilizing the workforce at San Joaquin General Hospital, which is crucial for the health and well-being of local residents.