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Board holds public hearing on potential closure/reduction of county medical services tied to budget cuts
Summary
Under a statutorily required hearing, county health officials outlined proposed service reductions and closures in the FY 2025–26 recommended budget, described a 24‑hour information line for impacted clients, and discussed transition plans with community health partners to preserve access where possible.
County Health Agency staff held the public hearing required by state law before adopting any closures or reductions of county medical services as part of the FY 2025–26 budget process. Director Nick Drews (speaker 30) and other health officials presented the list of proposed reductions and noted that the public record and comments would be considered at final budget hearings on June 9.
Drews emphasized the legal and procedural safeguards (the county posted notices at health facilities and set up a 24‑hour information/recorded comment line: (805) 788‑2399). He described the proposed changes and explained the county’s plan to partner with community health centers and nonprofits to preserve services where possible. For example, Public Health and Planning staff said community health centers have indicated they can take on many reproductive‑health services in Paso Robles (with Family PACT certification pending), and telehealth and mobile partners like NorClinic and Capslo may expand visits to fill gaps.
Supervisors asked detailed questions about alternative sites, translation services, WIC consolidation plans and immunization options for remote areas. Health staff said some services will be covered by other providers in the short term, but reductions may increase wait times and travel for patients. Staff pledged proactive outreach and to provide regular reports; the board requested communication materials that summarize the transition plans in advance of the formal budget vote.
No final closure or elimination action was taken at the hearing — the comments will be part of the public record for the June budget hearings.
